Aston Martin has unveiled its latest masterpiece, the DB12 S, the most powerful and advanced version of its celebrated DB12 grand tourer. Designed to sit at the very top of the DB12 lineup, the new S variant blends breathtaking performance with refined luxury. From its 700hp twin-turbocharged engine to bespoke interior customization options, the DB12 S is engineered to satisfy enthusiasts who demand both elegance and raw power.
This article dives deep into the design, performance, handling, technology, interior upgrades, and market positioning of the DB12 S, offering a complete perspective for those who follow luxury performance cars.
Engine and Performance: The Beating Heart of the DB12 S
At the center of the DB12 S lies a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, tuned to produce 700 horsepower, a 20hp increase compared to the standard DB12. Torque remains a massive 800Nm, ensuring relentless thrust across the rev range.
- Acceleration: The DB12 S rockets from 0–100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, shaving off a tenth of a second from the standard model.
- Top Speed: It maintains a blistering 325 km/h top speed, a figure that puts it among the fastest grand tourers in the world.
- Transmission: Power is channeled through an 8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox driving the rear wheels.
Aston Martin has refined the launch control system, improving gearshift response to an astonishing 120 milliseconds, while throttle mapping has been adjusted to deliver even sharper responses.
The Exhaust Symphony
For true enthusiasts, sound matters as much as speed. The DB12 S comes standard with a new stainless-steel exhaust system, tuned for a more aggressive and vocal tone. Buyers can upgrade to a titanium exhaust, which is 1.5 decibels louder and saves 11.7 kg of weight — a small but important detail in the pursuit of perfection.
Handling and Dynamics: Precision in Every Corner
Performance in a GT is not just about straight-line speed. The DB12 S incorporates several chassis and handling upgrades to ensure agility and confidence in demanding driving conditions.
- Dampers: Equipped with new Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers, the suspension adapts seamlessly to road conditions and driver input.
- Steering and Geometry: Fine-tuned steering and wheel geometry deliver sharper turn-in response.
- Electronic Rear Differential: Enhances stability and power delivery, particularly during spirited driving.
- Anti-Roll Bar: A stiffer rear anti-roll bar increases composure in fast corners.
Braking Power
A key highlight is the inclusion of carbon ceramic brakes as standard — a feature typically optional in this class. Measuring 410mm at the front and 360mm at the rear, these brakes not only deliver exceptional stopping power but also reduce 27 kg of unsprung mass, improving ride quality and responsiveness.
The car also debuts an advanced version of Aston Martin’s Corner Braking Control (CBC) system, which ensures composure and grip while braking into corners at high speed.
Exterior Design: Aggression Meets Elegance
While instantly recognizable as a DB12, the DB12 S carries several design cues that emphasize its range-topping status:
- Front: A redesigned splitter and functional bonnet louvres aid cooling and give the car a more aggressive face.
- Badging: Subtle yet striking red ‘S’ emblems on the fenders highlight its performance credentials.
- Wheels & Trim: New alloy wheel designs paired with gloss black trim enhance the sporty appeal.
- Rear: A quad-exhaust system and integrated ducktail spoiler not only improve aesthetics but also add aerodynamic efficiency.
The DB12 S communicates performance at a glance, but never sacrifices the elegance that Aston Martin grand tourers are famous for.
Interior: A Bespoke Experience
Inside, the DB12 S offers the familiar Aston Martin luxury environment but adds exclusive red accents and customization choices to reflect its halo status.
Key Interior Highlights:
- Accents: Red seatbelts, stitching, and headrest embroidery.
- Themes: Customers can choose from three upholstery packages:
- Accelerate – a mix of leather and Alcantara.
- Inspire S (Semi-Aniline Mix) – blending semi-aniline leather with Alcantara.
- Inspire S (Full Semi-Aniline) – offering full semi-aniline leather for the most luxurious feel.
- Accelerate – a mix of leather and Alcantara.
- Personalisation: Options such as a heated steering wheel and unique trim finishes ensure every DB12 S can be tailored to its owner’s taste.
This personalization ethos ensures no two DB12 S interiors need to be alike, reinforcing Aston Martin’s image as a maker of exclusive, handcrafted machines.
The DB12 S, like its standard counterpart, is not only about performance but also about modern luxury. Key technologies include:
- Advanced Infotainment System: High-resolution displays with intuitive controls.
- Driver Assistance: Adaptive systems that balance safety and performance.
- Connected Services: Enhancing convenience and entertainment for long GT journeys.
Aston Martin has seamlessly combined heritage craftsmanship with the digital age, ensuring the DB12 S appeals to both traditionalists and modern luxury car buyers.
Market Availability and Deliveries
The Aston Martin DB12 S is available in both Coupe and Volante (convertible) forms. Order books are already open in global markets, with deliveries scheduled to begin in Q1 2026.
While global enthusiasts eagerly anticipate its arrival, details about a possible India launch are yet to be confirmed. Considering Aston Martin’s selective approach in emerging markets, buyers in India may have to wait longer for official availability.
Why the DB12 S Matters
The DB12 S is not just a faster version of the DB12. It symbolizes Aston Martin’s commitment to evolving its GT philosophy. It is faster, louder, more agile, and even more luxurious — qualities that redefine what a modern grand tourer should be.
With rivals constantly pushing boundaries, Aston Martin has ensured that the DB12 S will not just compete but set new benchmarks in its segment. For buyers who want a car that is as thrilling on a mountain pass as it is comfortable on a cross-continent journey, the DB12 S represents the ultimate solution.
Conclusion
The Aston Martin DB12 S is a stunning blend of raw performance, luxury, and exclusivity. From its 700hp twin-turbo V8 and 3.4-second sprint to its carbon ceramic brakes, bespoke interiors, and quad-exhaust design, every detail reflects Aston Martin’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
As deliveries begin in 2026, the DB12 S is set to become a dream machine for enthusiasts who want their grand tourer to be not only fast and agile but also a true statement of craftsmanship and luxury.