Aston Martin Debuts DB12 “Super Tourer”

Aston Martin has debuted the all-new DB12, touted by the brand as “the world’s first super tourer.” 

As expected, the DB12 is another marriage of luxury and high-caliber performance, keeping up with the times while still leaning into the marque’s history. The launch of the DB12 coincides with Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary and the 75th anniversary of the DB line.

A vehicle like this is expected to have a lot of soul, and at the heart of the DB12 is a 4.0-liter Twin-Turbo V8, tuned by Aston Martin engineers to deliver 671 horsepower at 6000 RPM and 590 lb-ft of torque between 2750-6000 RPM; an increase of 34% compared with the outgoing DB11. Aston Martin claims a top speed is 202 mph with a 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds. Power is delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission and, for the first time on an Aston Martin DB model, an electronic rear differential, able to transition from fully-opened to 100% locked in milliseconds. 

Keeping power to the ground is a refined chassis and enhanced suspension, including adaptive dampers and stiffer anti-roll bars. But what good is all that without the right tire to make contact with the road? The DB12 marks the first OEM application of the new Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S tires, stamped with a special ‘AML’ code to signify the bespoke tire compound tuned by Aston Martin dynamics team. They wrap standard 21 inch forged alloy wheels, served up in a choice of three designs. 

The exterior of the DB12, while new, still carries much of that Aston Martin identity, most notably in the open grille and headlights, both of which accentuate the new front-end treatment and widened stance. Its long, swept-back proportions certainly lean into the vibes of a “super tourer,” as does the aforementioned performance; however, the other key component to a proper touring car is the interior. 

As expected, Aston Martin aimed for and hit the supercar interior mark. The cockpit is driver centric in design, integrating technology with luxury craftsmanship. The standout feature tech-wise is the bespoke infotainment system, designed and developed by Aston Martin. It’s the brand’s first in-house system; and at the first glance, they got it right. The digital instrument panel rests behind the leather-wrapped wheel, while the center infotainment screen sits lower and more integrated into the center stack. The multi-screen system is home to enough features, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; however, the DB12 retains physical buttons for many key mechanical operations, like gear selection, HVAC regulation, and certain adjustable performance bits. 

The DB12 is the rightful heir to Aston Martin’s DB kingdom, and it honors both the model’s 75 year history and the marque’s 110-year legacy. First deliveries are scheduled to begin during Q3 2023. Fortunately, it won’t be long until we’re behind the wheel, as we’re scheduled for some seat time along the breathtaking French Riviera in June. Stay tuned for our first impressions and a more detailed breakdown!