We’ve been teased with images from Aston Martin in the last few weeks on what was widely expected to be the new DB12. Now it has been confirmed, with the iconic British company releasing details on what is sure to be one of the world’s most hotly anticipated cars and a new flagship GT car to succeed the DB11. It may not look too dissimilar to its previous incarnation, but there are subtle changes in the car that will rival the Bentley Continental GT and BMW 8 Series. One thing we know for certain is that, as a grand tourer, comfort and luxury are sure to be in abundance. Performance too, with the DB12 boasting a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, shunning the electric path that so many other companies have chosen to follow. 

First, let’s look at the design. Like I previously said, the DB12 on the surface is not too far from the DB11 in terms of style, but your eyes are initially drawn to the front grille. A famous feature of all Aston Martins for decades, they’ve gone big this time.

The DB12 is also presented with a more muscular shape, with an increase in size by 6mm at the front and 22mm at the rear. Yet it cannot be argued that it still retains a smooth and sleek style, with that famous Aston Martin elegance still in abundance. This is further strengthened with new smaller, frameless wing mirrors and a small retractable lip on the rear, improving downforce and the overall aerodynamic profile of the car.  All of this sits on top of 21-inch alloy wheels as standard.

Not everything has to come as standard though, with Aston offering owners the chance to put their own stamp on their new car via the Q by Aston Martin personalisation service. This encompasses everything from small distinguishing details to full-scale engineering and production of entirely bespoke components.

Inside the cabin of the DB12, there has been a more noticeable update, with Aston Martin providing a much more contemporary look compared to the DB11. A high centre console features an entirely bespoke in-house system that has a 10.25-inch touchscreen integrated into the centre console with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Though Aston Martin hasn’t neglected physical buttons that still hold great importance to petrolheads in the modern day. A new Bower & Wilkins provided surround sound system adds further to the onboard entertainment and as usual with Aston, the interior is stylish and features the finest leathers and stitching.

Now, I’m sure you’re all waiting for the important details regarding the engine and performance. The 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine puts out 680hp and 800Nm of torque, over 150hp more than the DB11. 0-60mph can be achieved in 3.5 seconds and its top speed is an impressive 202mph.

Roberto Fedeli, Group Chief Technology Officer of Aston Martin said of the new DB12: “We have pushed every aspect of this car to be best in class.”

There is no word on the price yet, but deliveries of what Aston Martin is proudly referring to as ‘The World’s First Super Tourer’ are scheduled to begin during the third quarter of 2023.

Words: Mike Booth
Pictures: Aston Martin