Aston Martin DB12 S: The Apex of the Super Tourer

Aston Martin has unveiled its newest halo model, the DB12 S, a car that stands as the ultimate evolution of the marque’s celebrated Super Tourer lineage. Taking the thrilling, driver-focused DB12 as its foundation, the DB12 S amplifies everything that defines the brand: power, precision, craftsmanship, and emotional engagement. With 700 PS of performance, sharper dynamics, and an unmistakable presence, the DB12 S is not just a new model, it is a declaration of Aston Martin’s intent to lead in both luxury and performance. This new flagship continues a rich heritage of “S” derivatives that began in 1953 with the DB3S, the car that ignited Aston Martin’s motorsport legend. More recent icons such as the Vanquish S, V12 Vantage S, and Rapide S have all carried the badge as a mark of elevated capability and character. Now, the DB12 S joins that legacy, the purest expression yet of Aston Martin’s philosophy: power, beauty, and soul.

At the heart of the DB12 S lies a redefined version of Aston Martin’s 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, now producing a breathtaking 700 PS at 6000 rpm and 800 Nm of torque between 3000 and 6000 rpm. This power propels the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, on to a top speed of 202 mph, delivering a blend of refinement and ferocity that few cars can match. The newly tuned quad-tailpipe stainless-steel exhaust system adds depth and resonance across the rev range, while an optional titanium system boosts both sound and weight efficiency, a 1.5 dB increase and a reduction of nearly 12 kilograms. The powertrain’s recalibrated Launch Control, 50% faster gearshifts, and refined drive-by-wire throttle map create a connection that feels immediate, intuitive, and alive. Every motion is purposeful, from the measured travel of the throttle pedal to the split-second precision of each gear change. “With DB12 S, we’ve added a new depth of performance and personality while preserving the refinement that defines Aston Martin,” says Simon Newton, Director of Vehicle Performance. “It’s an evolution of the Super Tourer, but with sharper edges and a stronger heartbeat.” To translate that power into poise, Aston Martin’s engineers reimagined the chassis with enhanced Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers, a stiffer rear anti-roll bar, and meticulously refined suspension geometry. The result is sharper cornering response, improved composure, and an agile yet unshakably stable ride. Standard Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB), 410 mm at the front, 360 mm at the rear, deliver extraordinary stopping power, reducing unsprung weight by 27 kilograms, enhancing ride quality and steering precision alike.

The DB12 S wears its performance with elegance and authority. A dual-element front splitter and new bonnet louvresdefine its face, features that are as functional as they are expressive, reducing lift and managing airflow with purpose. Finished in Gloss Black or optional Carbon Fibre, they give the DB12 S a wider, lower stance that exudes confidence. Along the sides, gloss black sill extensions draw the eye toward the rear, where form meets fury: a fixed rear spoiler and redesigned diffuser frame the signature quad exhaust tailpipes, giving the car a stance of irresistible aggression. Every line is drawn for balance, between aerodynamics and aesthetics, force and finesse. Even the discreet ‘S’ badges, available in bright or dark chrome with red glass enamel, signal intent rather than boast. This is design with restraint and depth, a sculptural expression of the car’s duality: thrilling performance wrapped in timeless sophistication. Inside, the DB12 S transforms that same ethos into a sanctuary of driver engagement. The cabin is centred around a red anodised drive mode controller, a visual cue to the car’s purpose. The palette of materials, from full semi-aniline leather to Alcantara, reflects both athleticism and luxury. Aston Martin offers three distinctive environments: Accelerate, a performance-inspired mix of leather and Alcantara; Inspire S, blending semi-aniline leather and intricate herringbone quilting; and Inspire S Full Leather, the ultimate in handcrafted indulgence. Each environment showcases obsessive attention to detail, from micro-perforated S quilting to an industry-first embossed and debossed Aston Martin wings logo on the headrests. Standard 16-way Sport Plus electric seats ensure comfort during grand touring, while optional Carbon Fibre Performance seats offer lighter weight and track-ready support.

The DB12 S represents Aston Martin’s vision for the modern grand tourer, a car that combines visceral performance with exquisite craftsmanship. It embodies the dual nature of Aston Martin’s spirit: the unrelenting pursuit of engineering excellence and the timeless art of design. Every component, from the titanium exhaust note to the subtle stitching of the steering wheel, tells a story of precision and passion. Joining the DBX S and Vantage S in the marque’s revitalised “S” family, the DB12 S signals a confident stride into Aston Martin’s future, one where the line between luxury and performance disappears entirely. Available to order now in both Coupe and Volante forms, with deliveries commencing in Q1 2026, the DB12 S isn’t merely a new chapter; it’s the defining statement of what a Super Tourer should be in the modern age, bold, beautiful, and utterly intoxicating.