The Aston Martin DB12 – The World’s first Super Tourer

From Aston Martin Press Release

Aston Martin recently introduced the new DB12. Delivering a quantum shift in sporting character and dynamic capability, this new generation of the legendary DB bloodline defines its own new category. Combining a scintillating driving experience with exceptional refinement, state-of-the-art technology and indulgent luxury, the DB12 demands a new definition. Grand is not enough; this is the world’s first Super Tourer.

The DB12 takes a new direction. One which makes it the most complete and accomplished DB model in Aston Martin’s history. Blessed with exceptional performance and handling to satisfy and reward the most demanding drivers, its meticulously honed chassis is perfectly matched to a class-leading 680PS/800NM V8 Twin-Turbo powertrain. The result is an energised Aston Martin that shines with authenticity, capability and passion to deliver a driving experience that’s second to none.

Engineered to maximise performance and intensify emotion, the DB12 is the product of a holistic approach. One that starts with meaningful increases in structural stiffness and ends with Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S tyres made to Aston Martin’s precise specification. Supported by an all-new suspension system featuring the latest adaptive dampers, control and connection are further amplified by an exceptionally precise and direct Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system and an Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff) that enhances agility and brings the DB12 alive on the most dynamic of roads.

Supported by an industry leading Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system, which employs six-axis inertia measurement to predict available grip, the DB12 also gives the driver a choice of five pre-set driving modes allowing the freedom to incrementally explore the limits of grip and traction with complete confidence and safety. Put simply, no series production Aston Martin has dedicated itself so completely to setting new dynamic benchmarks.  

The announcement of DB12 comes as Aston Martin celebrates two significant milestones in 2023; Its monumental 110th anniversary and 75 years of the illustrious DB model line. When founders Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford officially formed the partnership that became Aston Martin, they ignited more than a century of automotive passion, cutting-edge British innovation, and high-octane racing success. It comes at a time when Aston Martin is enjoying one of the most dynamic periods in its 110-year history thanks to continued podium success in the 2023 Formula 1® season. Competing at the pinnacle of world motorsport remains a key pillar of the marque’s brand and product strategy.

DB12’s core values of high-performance and ultra-luxury are spearheading Aston Martin’s next generation of sports cars. As such it heralds a new era. One which will see all Aston Martin models characterised by prodigious performance and pinpoint dynamics, seamless integration of advanced technologies and the sublime style and exemplary craftsmanship for which the brand has long been renowned.

Roberto Fedeli, Group Chief Technology Officer of Aston Martin said of the new DB12: “DB12 is a statement car. One that asserts Aston Martin’s position as a leader in performance, dynamics, engineering and technology. We have pushed every aspect of this car to be best-in-class. The result is more power and performance than its rivals. Combined with exceptional handling and an exciting soundtrack, it is a car with passion and a truly sporting character. Crucially, thanks to its breadth of capability we have achieved this without compromising refinement, comfort and luxury. Together with our use of industry-leading dynamic control and infotainment systems, DB12 is the start of Aston Martin’s most exciting new era.”

Performance – fiercer, newfound engagement from class-leading powertrain
Unapologetic and unambiguous, DB12 makes an emphatic statement. One that exudes the confidence of a car endowed with a 0-60mph time of 3.5 seconds, a 202mph top speed and best-in-class potency from its 4.0 Twin-Turbo V8 engine. This exceptional hand-built engine, tuned by Aston Martin engineers to deliver class-leading 680PS/671bhp at 6000rpm and 800Nm/590lb ft between 2750-6000rpm; an increase of 34% compared with the outgoing DB11.

These higher outputs have been achieved through modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger diameter turbochargers, and increased cooling. To manage increased thermal demands the cooling system has been completely redesigned, with an additional two auxiliary coolers added to the existing central main radiator. To ensure desired engine intake air temperatures are achieved in all conditions, an additional low temperature radiator has been fitted to the charge cooler water circuit.
 
In addition, the auxiliary outboard engine oil cooler now has over double the face area of its predecessor in order to manage the demands on the lubrication circuit. Cooling has been optimised further by improving thermal airflow, a 56% increase in open apertures allowing more cold air to flow into the radiators, while centrally mounted bonnet vents placed above the twin turbos allow hot air to escape.

Handling and dynamics – the sharpest DB ever
Power is fed through an 8-speed automatic transmission and for the first time on an Aston Martin DB model, Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff). This differential is linked to the car’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. Unlike a conventional Limited Slip Differential, it can go from fully open to 100% locked in a matter of milliseconds, giving the driver maximum response for more precise and consistent handling.

Working in harmony with the latest generation ESC system the E-Diff significantly improves the car’s cornering capabilities in all conditions. In low to medium speed corners, the DB12 feels brilliantly agile and responsive, coming alive on challenging roads thanks to immense front-end grip and tremendous traction. Meanwhile, total composure in high-speed corners lends the DB12 to a great feeling of confidence and control.

To increase driver engagement and amplify the intensity of its performance, the DB12 features a revised (shortened) Final Drive Ratio (3.083:1), plus a unique transmission shift calibration. The former works to deliver punchier in-gear acceleration, while the latter reduces shift speeds and creates different shift characteristics to suit the DB12’s broad range of dynamic modes.

DB12’s bonded aluminium structure has seen a 7% increase in global tortional stiffness thanks to changes to a range of underbody components; the engine cross brace; front and rear undertrays; front crossmember and rear bulkhead. The combined effect is a focused improvement in tortional rigidity and lateral stiffness – especially between the front and rear strut towers – which provides a stronger and more stable attachment points for the dampers and rear axle. This brings gains in suspension performance, isolation and refinement, along with improvements in on and off-centre steering feel and overall sense of driver connection.

With the introduction of new generation intelligent adaptive dampers and extensive engineering of key components such as stiffer anti-roll bars, DB12 offers class-leading driving dynamics and greatly increased breadth of capability.

With a 500% increase in bandwidth of force distribution, these state-of-the-art dampers are a huge advance as their greater capacity facilitate a far broader range of control and refinement across the DB12’s drive mode settings. By exploiting this increased scope, Aston Martin’s vehicle attributes engineers have extended the DB12’s range of character far beyond those of class rivals.

Careful calibration of the dampers allows the progressive introduction of more response and tighter body control as you scroll through the dynamic modes, with detailed tuning of suspension bushing delivering excellent refinement and isolation. Combined with the E-Diff and ESC system this means that in GT mode a luxurious ride quality is retained for sublime yet agile cruising, while Sport and Sport+ modes ramp-up the DB12’s responsiveness and tighten body control, shrinking the car around the driver and making it truly come alive on challenging roads as never before.

As the primary point of contact between car and driver, careful attention has been paid to perfecting the DB12’s Electronic Power Assisted Steering system (EPAS). This begins with the fitment of a non-isolated steering column, which gives an enhanced dynamic feel by ensuring steering inputs from the driver and feedback from the road remain pure and uncorrupted.

EPAS calibration focuses on ensuring plenty of on-centre feel mated to a swift but natural-feeling rate of response. Taking care to avoid the steering responding in an exaggerated, overly aggressive manner, DB12 has an intuitive, confidence-inspiring feel. One that that allows the driver to relax on long journeys but revel in its precision, responsiveness and agility when attacking an apex.

In the interests of consistency and driver connection, the EPAS has a constant 13.09:1 ratio rack with variable, speed sensitive assistance and 2.4 turns lock-to-lock. This variable level of assistance is integrated with the DB12’s drive mode programmes, the level of assistance reducing incrementally while moving towards the most aggressive mode (Sport+).
 
Ensuring it has the stopping power to match its prodigious pace, DB12 is fitted as standard with cast-iron 400mm front discs and 360mm rear discs with grooved and drilled faces for improved thermal capacity. The brake booster has also been re-tuned to improve pedal feedback, giving the driver greater confidence thanks to a firm pedal with an immediate sense of stopping power combined with progressive response.

Underlining its Super Tourer credentials, DB12 can be ordered with a Carbon Ceramic Brake (CCB) option. Offering increased braking performance and reduced brake fade at temperatures of up to 800°C, fitting CCB saves 27kg in unsprung mass compared to the standard braking system, which in turn benefits ride quality and steering response.

Confirming its commitment to fulfilling the DB12’s Super Tourer brief, Aston Martin is the first OEM application of the new Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S tyres – 275/35 R21 103Y front and 315/30 R21 108Y rear. Not settling for off-the-shelf versions, the DB12’s tyres are marked with ‘AML’ codes. This signifies they feature a bespoke compound and have been tuned by the Aston Martin dynamics team to ensure the highest levels of reactivity for precision steering, together with maximum grip in wet and dry conditions.

The Pilot Sport 5 S also feature noise-cancelling polyurethane foam inserts within the tyre’s carcass. This reduces tyre ‘hum’ transmitted to the car’s interior by 20%, lowering noise levels and improving refinement and driver comfort.

DB12 features 21 inch forged alloy wheels as standard; 9.5J front and 10.5J rear. There is a choice of three different designs – standard Five-Spoke and optional Multi-Spoke and Y-Spoke – in a range of colours and finishes: Five-Spoke in Gloss Silver; Multi-Spoke in Satin Platinum, Satin Black and Satin Black Diamond Turned; Y-Spoke in Satin Bronze, Satin Black and Satin Black Diamond Turned.

Aston Martin have worked closely to optimise the structure of these lightweight wheels to maximise performance without compromising aesthetics. Using cutting edge simulation to ensure excess mass has been removed, these wheels are 8kg lighter than previous 20” offerings.

Driver centricity – Purer, intuitive technology that puts you in control
Designed to offer the driver the perfect degree of dynamic support without restraint, DB12 introduces an industry leading Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system. The system offers four pre-defined ESP modes (Wet, On, Track & Off) selectable via the ESP button on the centre console. Each is seamlessly integrated to deliver progressive control while avoiding abrupt interventions.

The system works by taking information from a multitude of sensors around the vehicle, the most advanced of which is the new six-axis inertia measurement unit. This complex accelerometer data builds a real-time picture of the what the car is doing. Then, using cutting edge algorithms, it predicts the level of grip available, as well as reacting to momentary instabilities.

Designed to work discreetly in the background, this sophisticated system allows the driver to get the best from the car and the conditions with fewer perceived ESP interventions while maintaining a high degree of safety. The same predictive, model-based technology underpins all the car’s chassis control systems (ABS, Traction Control and Lateral dynamics) in an unprecedented, integrated way for an unmatched level of driver confidence and enjoyment.

In addition to multi-mode ESP, DB12 also features five pre-defined drive modes; GT, Sport and Sport+ progressively adjust the dynamic behaviour, with each step allowing the driver more freedom to explore the limits of grip and traction; Wet mode enhances stability on low grip surfaces; Individual mode allows the driver to precisely tailor the vehicle systems to their preferences, with the freedom to mixing and matching chassis, powertrain, ESP and traction control settings.

Drive modes are selected using the centre console; a knurled rotary controller allowing quick and easy cycle function through the five pre-sets. Individual override buttons for the chassis, ESP and exhaust are also located on the centre console, below and to the left of the rotary controller. These allow the driver to override the drive mode priority and select their preferred settings.

Exterior – Bolder by design
The DB12’s bold and assertive exterior design is a perfect expression of power and potency. Presented with the immaculate style for which Aston Martin is renowned, integrating 75 years of DB heritage and segment defining proportions worthy of the world’s first super tourer, it exudes confidence and commands attention with an impressively athletic physique, measured aggression and unrivalled elegance.

Presented with a more muscular physique to signify the power that lies beneath – an increase in track by 6mm at the front and 22mm at the rear, the all-new front-end features a larger, re-shaped radiator aperture and a re-shaped splitter. Framed by new Light Emitting Diode (LED) headlights with a distinctive new Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) signature and intricate surface detailing, the DB12’s wide-track stance is complemented by standard-fit 21 inch forged alloy wheels. Sitting proudly on the nose is the latest evolution of the iconic Aston Martin wings badge. Symbolising the start of an exciting new era, DB12 is the first sports car to which the new wings have been applied. New smaller, frameless wing mirrors compliment the new design whilst also improving the aerodynamic profile of the car and to assist entry, presenting door handles welcome occupants into the new, ultra-luxury cabin.

Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer of Aston Martin, adds: “"DB12 is our design definition of a Super Tourer. Historically, the GT code among most contemporary enthusiasts meant some semblance of comfort, speed, and refinement. But since the Aston Martin customer is no ordinary motorist, and we no longer simply design objects in and of themselves, we’ve fused everything together on the DB12 — the handling, dynamics, powertrain, sense of space, and styling— and we’ve done it to the max through technology to deliver this new category of performance-design driving experience.
 
“We know that when the owner of an Aston Martin heads out for open-road driving at the upper limits, hoping to reach those exhilarating moments of perfection, they are seeking the thrills of speed and performance while safely commanding control of their experience. DB12 intuitively knows what the driver is wanting and effortlessly gives them that optimal combination at any driving moment. It's this total experience that separates the DB12 as the first breed of Super Tourer".

The latest addition to Aston Martin’s most illustrious bloodline, DB12 exemplifies the brand by boldly moving forward. That wholesale progression is reflected in the DB12’s styling, which features an all-new front-end treatment, wider stance and more muscular surfaces for increased presence. The interior has also been completely redesigned, with clean horizontal lines emphasising the sense of space and providing the perfect contemporary backdrop for new a new state-of-the-art infotainment system. Emphatically fresh yet unmistakably Aston Martin, DB12 defines the new breed of Super Tourer.”

Those who wish to celebrate their own style own can explore endless possibilities via the Q by Aston Martin personalisation service. By accessing the skills of Q by Aston Martin’s designers and craftspeople, customers are invited to take a unique personal commissioning journey; one that encompasses everything from a single small distinguishing detail to full-scale engineering and production of entirely bespoke components. Nothing is out of reach with the design team with endless possibilities to make their DB12 a true one of a kind.

Interior – Finer craft & technology
Enriched by an all-new, ultra-luxurious interior, the DB12 indulges occupants with modern opulence, empowers with Aston Martin’s next-generation bespoke infotainment system and a formidable suite of connected technology and entertains with a spectacular surround sound system by new audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins.

Combining clean, contemporary design with classic craftsmanship and the finest materials, the DB12’s interior provides a stylish and sumptuous haven for driver and passengers alike. The design character focuses on a driver centric cockpit, seamlessly integrating everyday technologies with luxury craftmanship and materials. Occupants sit below the shoulder line with a high centre console, allowing complete engagement with the ultra-luxurious cockpit and its combination of contemporary display screens and interactive analogue switches. Driver-centric controls are ergonomically placed along the cabin centreline, ensuring maximum driver connection and the bold, horizontal lines are softened with elegant cabin jewellery and distinctive trim details.

Craftmanship remains at the core of all Aston Martins. Swathed in aromatic, hand-stitched Bridge of Weir hides, this cosseting space embodies true Super Tourer values; soothing comfort to excel at all-day, big mileage journeys, yet still provides the support and connection needed to deliver maximum driving enjoyment. Exquisite detailing and unique character embodied by the new quilts introduced with DB12. The new quilting pattern is applied to the highest quality full leather or Alcantara® interior environments.

A major DB12 landmark is the introduction of Aston Martin’s next-generation infotainment. Entirely bespoke, designed and developed by Aston Martin, it is the marque’s first in-house system.

The new system, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™*, is a fully integrated multi-screen system and displayed using 10.25 inch Pure Black, 1970x720 high-resolution screens with ultra-responsive (30ms reaction time) capacitive touch control.

Understanding the need for balance between touchscreen commands and the positive tactility of physical switches, DB12 retains buttons for the key mechanical operations of gear selection, drive selection, heating and ventilation offering the perfect blend of digital and analogue controls. There are also override switches for chassis, ESP and exhaust, Lane Assist and Park Distance Control, ensuring the most used controls are always conveniently to hand.

The all-new navigation system for DB12 features online connectivity for a smarter, quicker and more informative experience. Online connection enables the driver to simply look up their favourite restaurant, read the reviews and chose it as a destination. Or, if more convenient, choose a destination in the Aston Martin App and simply send it to their DB12 in readiness for travel.

The new 3D mapping with subdued hues gives intuitive, clear instruction with lane guidance and real time traffic overlays. Connected dynamic routing ensures no unnecessary delays. Satellite view is available for those who like to see details, dynamically downloaded to visualise the surrounding area as you drive.

Cornerstones of the DB12’s new infotainment system are online connectivity and an all-new companion Aston Martin App. Two firsts for the brand, DB12 owners will be able to communicate, interact and engage with their car. Online connectivity will assist the ownership experience through increased ease of use and peace of mind, offering Over The Air (OTA) updates and diagnostics. An ever-expanding system, Aston Martin’s connected car offering will continue to evolve as products, services and support for vehicles evolves.

This all-new connected car ecosystem utilises three key elements – the DB12, the Aston Martin App and Aston Martin’s secure data servers. These three elements connect through globally roaming 4G LTE / GSM cellular networks via the embedded e-SIM in DB12, which is provided and funded by Aston Martin.

When purchasing their new DB12, customers will be invited to enroll in the new Aston Martin App and create their own unique AML ID. Available on iOS and Android, the app allows seamless interaction, control and feedback to and from the car via their personal device.

Personalised content specific to their vehicle is presented in clear and intuitive screens that seamlessly match the new UI/UX of the infotainment system. From the app, customers can monitor, locate and protect their vehicle, send navigation POI’s or be guided on foot with last mile navigation. They can also manage their account details and share in the community of Aston Martin owners through integrated media feeds.

The app also offers a range of connected car subscription packages that are free for the first three-years and designed to maximise the Aston Martin ownership experience. There are three connected car subscription offerings. These are activated free of charge when a customer’s new DB12 warranty is activated. As an additional benefit to future owners, the subscription is tied to the vehicle for the first three-years, even if the DB12 is re-purchased through Aston Martin’s Timeless approved pre-owned sale programme.

The connected subscriptions and features are as-follows:

Convenience
Connected Navigation / Theft Alert / Voice Assistant / Geofence Alert

Vehicle Management
Locate / Identify / Protect / Speed Alert / Trip Data / Vehicle Status / Remote Lock / Unlock

Vehicle Services
Emergency Call / Breakdown Call / Aston Martin Concierge / Privacy Mode / Over The Air Updates / Subscriptions / Diagnostics

An optional Advantage subscription offers additional personalisation, interaction and functional benefits. Initially offering a Stolen Vehicle Tracker, Advantage enables DB12 owners to build a portfolio of additional features and subscription services to expand and enrich their ownership experience.

In keeping with its mission to deliver excellence in every aspect, the Aston Martin DB12 introduces a new experience in audio enjoyment. To this end it is fitted as standard with the Aston Martin 390w 11 speaker audio system. Utilising advanced hardware, this system offers a surround sound mode and employs QuantumLogic® sound processing to create a soundscape and audio performance designed to match DB12 perfectly.

For true audiophiles Aston Martin has developed an optional surround system with new audio partners, Bowers & Wilkins. Taking technologies and innovations found in Bowers & Wilkins’ world-class domestic hi-fi, this bespoke system has been acoustically engineered for the DB12’s interior volume and shape to deliver a truly spectacular listening experience.

High-performance loudspeakers such as Aluminium Double Dome tweeters and Continuum® midrange speakers give this 15-speaker, double amplified 1,170W surround sound system a balanced and accurate sound. Dedicated 3D headline speakers and a powerful subwoofer ensure the most enthralling sound experience possible in an Aston Martin sports car.

This immersive quality is achieved by perfect location, direction and symmetry of the speaker positions, which have been built deep into the fabric of the DB12; something that has been achieved by close co-operation between Aston Martin and Bowers & Wilkins’ engineers.

Seamlessly integrated design ensures the system looks as good as it sounds. With stainless steel speaker grilles available in finishes to match the interior jewellery of DB12, they feature perforations optimised for perfect acoustics and striking aesthetics.

Amedeo Felisa, Chief Executive Officer of Aston Martin, said of the new DB12: “When a brand has as much history as Aston Martin it is important to honour the past. Not by looking back, but by pushing on with the same energy and passion that propelled our founders 110-years ago. With the new DB12 we are reinvigorating the DB model line and reasserting Aston Martin as a maker of truly exceptional performance sportcars. By combining class-leading performance and exceptional chassis dynamics with cutting edge technology, impeccable craftsmanship and immaculate design, DB12 leads Aston Martin into a new era of excellence.”

With first deliveries scheduled to begin during Q3 2023, the bold new DB12 is defining its own new category of one and sets the benchmark for performance, driving excitement, ultra-luxury and style. This is no mere GT. DB12 is The World’s First Super Tourer.