A supercar with exceptional comfort? Isn't that called a GT?
- AMG-sourced 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 (671 hp/590 lb-ft)
- 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, top speed of 202 mph
- Electronic limited-slip differential
- Completely overhauled suspension and steering systems
- Brand new in-house developed infotainment system
Aston Martin has revealed what it calls “the world's first Super Tourer,” and as we predicted, the replacement for the DB11 is called the DB12. First impressions? It's bloody gorgeous. It looks so good, we could fill these pages with comments on the styling alone, but you want to know if it will go as well as it shows.
Things already look promising with the news that there is no electrical motivation in this car whatsoever. Grunt comes from AMG's handbuilt 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, which now produces a best-in-class output of 671 horsepower with 590 lb-ft of torque. That translates to a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph.
Thankfully, Aston Martin improved the driving experience in more ways than just one.
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For the first time on an Aston Martin DB model, an electronic limited-slip differential has been fitted, while the new electronic stability control system uses six-axis inertia measurement to “predict available grip.” It also offers the driver a choice of five preset driving modes (GT, Sport, Sport+, Wet, and Individual), while the traction control system now features Wet, On, Track, and Off modes.
The steering is better too. It's an electrically assisted system but features a non-isolated steering column that claims to provide “pure and uncorrupted” feedback from the road. A constant steering ratio and just 2.4 turns lock to lock mean that this should be a very direct car that is easy to place.
A shorter final drive ratio, a retuned transmission, and a 7% stiffer torsional rigidity figure also contribute to better handling dynamics.
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Intelligent adaptive dampers with a 500% increase in bandwidth of force distribution are joined by stiffer anti-roll bars, helping one exploit the limits of grip. Those limits should arrive much later, thanks to the first OEM application of Michelin's new Pilot Sport S 5 tires. Aston Martin's rubber has a bespoke compound and noise-canceling polyurethane foam inserts that reduce tire hum by 20%.
The standard brakes include cast iron discs measuring 400 millimeters in front and 360 mm at the rear. Optionally, carbon ceramic brakes are available, saving 59.5 pounds. Either way, unsprung weight on the forged 21-inch wheels has been reduced by 17.6 lbs compared to the DB11's 20-inch rims. Those wheels are available in three designs and with various finishes, including Gloss Silver, Satin Platinum, Satin Black, Satin Bronze, and Satin Black Diamond Turned. A 6-mm wider front track and a 22-mm wider rear track further enhance the DB12's capabilities.
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The DB12 gets new LED headlights and the latest iteration of the iconic wings badge, making this the first application of the new design on a road car. Smaller frameless wing mirrors feature, too, although they're not quite as frameless as those on a Polestar 2. The DB12 also features self-presenting door handles for a sleeker profile.
Inside, Aston Martin has finally moved on from its torrid love affair with Mercedes infotainment systems and has created its first in-house system, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and features 10.25-inch displays that promise lightning-quick response times.
Unlike so many other automakers, Aston has not relied entirely on screens. Gear selection, drive selection, and climate system controls are all accessed by physical switches, and because nobody wants to spend half their morning navigating confusing menus, Aston has also provided override switches for regularly accessed functions, like those for the chassis, ESP, exhaust, lane assist, and park distance systems.
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While we’re on the subject of interior tech, let’s look at the sound system. As standard, this is a 390-watt, 11-speaker setup with QuantumLogic sound processing. If that’s not good enough, Bowers & Wilkins is now part of the Aston Martin supplier list with a 15-speaker double-amplified 3D surround sound system with 1,170 watts of power. Adding another level of opulence is the option of finishing the stainless steel speaker grilles in finishes that match those of the interior switchgear and brightwork.
The car looks fantastic and seems a major step forward for the Gaydon-based automaker. But that doesn't mean Aston can relax. Its cars need to continually evolve to stay competitive, but based on first impressions, this is a great starting point for the next five years or so.
Pricing of the Aston Martin DB12 has not yet been revealed, but deliveries will begin sometime during Q3 of this year.
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Keyword: Aston Martin DB12 Revealed As The World's First 'Super Tourer'