The Aston Martin DB12 S has made its debut as the high-performance version of the DB12, which was unveiled two years ago as the first of the marque’s new-generation models. The DB12 S is the latest in a line of S-badged models, joining the Vantage S and the DBX S duo unveiled this year. Delivering that heightened performance is the uprated powertrain that is the 4.0 litre biturbo V8 petrol engine that now outputs 700 PS at 6,000 rpm and the same 800 Nm from 3,000 rpm to 6,000 rpm, the former figure 20 PS higher than the peak power output of the DB12. The 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) acceleration benchmark is done in 3.4 seconds, an improvement of 0.1 second compared to the DB12, while its top speed remains the same at 202 mph (323 km/h). Contributing to the slight gains in acceleration are an optional titanium exhaust system that reduces weight by 11.2 kg compared to the standard, stainless steel system, while calibration changes to the launch control system shorten shift times by 50%. Beyond the raw numbers, Aston Martin has recalibrated the throttle for a more progressive pedal feel with a new throttle map specific to the DB12 S. With more performance comes greater driver focus in the DB12 S, which gets software revisions to its Bilstein DTX dampers along with a stiffer rear anti-roll bar and revised camber, toe and castor angle settings, which bring improvements to front-end confidence and overall agility, says Aston Martin. Also revised are its steering and electronic rear differential settings for a more natural feel, says the carmaker. Upgrades on the DB12 S relative to the DB12 are the now-standard fitment of carbon-ceramic brakes, which measure 410 mm in front and 360 mm at the rear. These save a claimed 27 kg in unsprung weight compared to the steel brake specification. New on the DB12 S is the next-generation corner braking control system (CBC) which blends the functions of the Brake Slip Control and Integrated Vehicle Control modules. The CBC’s predictive function is able to use more rear brake to help the car maintain a tighter line when braking into a corner, essentially applying more rearward bias to the brakes. For the driver, this is claimed to allow later braking and with greater stability. Exterior revisions that identify the DB12 S include a revised front splitter that now has dual elements to generate downforce and stabilise airflow in and around the front wheelarches, while the bonnet gains louvres to aid extraction of hot air from the engine bay. Along the sides, sill extensions in gloss black continue the visual line from the new front splitter, while wearing ‘S’ badging below each side strake. The rear end of the DB12 S gets a fixed spoiler, accompanied lower down by a new rear diffuser to aid in reducing lift, and to make room for the stacked tailpipes on this model (the DB12 gets a single outlet on each side). Inside, the DB12 S gets a rotary controller in a red anodised finish to further signify the performance status of this variant. Three interior trim packages are offered for the cabin of the DB12 S; Accelerate leather and Alcantara trim, Inspire S semi-aniline leather and Alcantara and Inspire S full semi-aniline leather. The DB12 S gets 16-way Sport Plus electric front seats as standard, and the option of a Carbon Fibre Performance seat specification. While depicted here as a fixed-roof Coupé, the DB12 S is also offered as a Volante open-top, with the order books open for both bodystyles and deliveries are to commence in the first quarter of next year. Compare prices between different insurer providers to save the most on your car insurance renewal compared to other competing services. Many payment method supported and you can pay with instalment using Grab PayLater or Shopee SPayLater.
