The new Aston Martin DB12 created a new class of cars, for which the old one was no longer enough. We’re not surprised

The traditional V12 engine has been replaced by a naturally aspirated eight-cylinder from Mercedes, but the dynamics are still very impressive.

British car manufacturer Aston Martin introduced the DB12, which marked the beginning of a new era of sports cars. The novelty should set a new standard in terms of performance, elegance and luxury, thanks to which, according to the brand, it received the title of “the world’s first supertourer”. According to the automaker, the large designation simply isn’t enough for the DB12.

At the same time, the car company could not have chosen a better time to start a new era. In 2023, it celebrates the 110th anniversary of its founding and the 75th anniversary of the DB model series. At the same time, the design of the new model clearly follows its predecessor, the DB11.

The most important changes appear in the front part. The DB12 model received a new giant mask of traditional shapes, framed by new LED headlights. Also new is the hood, which features a modern Aston Martin crest. Then a new divider is placed under the bumper.

The car is mounted on 21-inch wheels, and behind them are brake discs with a diameter of 400 mm at the front and 360 mm at the rear. At the same time, the wheels are 8 kg lighter than the 20-inch discs of the DB11 model, and they wear Michelit Pilot 5s tires, which, thanks to a special compound, promise to reduce noise in the cabin. Also worth noting are the frameless rear-view mirrors or the recessed door handles.

The cabin has undergone a more significant transformation, which has moved more into the 21st century. In front of the driver is a newly designed steering wheel, and behind it is a fully digital instrument panel. In front of the central tunnel is a 10.25-inch multimedia system display with 4G connectivity, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, voice control and wireless updates. At the same time, Aston Martin should be directly behind the development, while previously it was Mercedes that supplied the information.

In addition to the new technical and technological equipment, the cabin also received thinner air intakes, a new gear selector and retained a number of traditional cabin mechanical controls. In addition, there are also premium materials, elegant upholstery and rich optional equipment.

Perhaps the most interesting thing is the drive unit, that is, the 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8, which was supplied by the Mercedes manufacturer. The engine is tuned for maximum output of 500 kW and 800 Nm of torque, beating even the 5.2-liter V12 in the DB11, which delivers 470 kW and 700 Nm of torque.

The V8-powered Aston Martin DB12 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 325 km/h. Thus, the 12-cylinder engine in the DB11 excels in acceleration, but lags slightly behind in top speed (334 km / h). However, it is very easy to see why the DB12 could only be used with a V8 engine.

In addition, the new model features a revised 7 percent stiffer body structure, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential or a redesigned chassis with stiffer stabilizers and new adaptive dampers. The electronic stabilization system and the brake system have also undergone evolution. Optionally, carbon brakes will also be available, which save up to 27 kg of weight and provide longer durability.

Finally, let us add that the new Aston Martin DB12 will be launched in the third quarter of this year. In the near future, the premiere of its open version, Volante, is also planned.