Aston Martin DB12 revealed

James Bond’s auto brand of choice has just revealed its new ‘super tourer’ in the form of the 2024 Aston Martin DB12 – the next evolution of the British marque’s flagship coupe.

Looking a lot like the love child of a Vantage and the DB11 it replaces, the new DB12 is the most powerful series-production two-door Aston Martin V8 to date, packing maximum outputs of 500kW/800Nm from an AMG-sourced twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8.

Drive is sent exclusively to the rear wheels by an eight-speed automatic transmission and kept in check with the help of an electronic rear differential and bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S tyres.

The ultra-high-performance rubber encompasses 21-inch forged alloy wheels at all four corners and plays a key part in launching the DB12 to 100km/h in 3.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 325km/h.

In addition to being its gruntiest V8 coupe to date, Aston Martin claims the new model is also its most dynamic series production model to date, with an all-new suspension set-up headlined by the latest-generation adaptive damping technology, four-way adjustable electronic stability control system, aforementioned rolling stock and of course an e-diff.

A stiffened shell, wider tracks (than the DB11) and retuned electronic power steering system contribute to the newfound dynamic prowess, as do the five drive modes – GT, Sport, Sport+, Wet and Individual – which tailor the vehicle’s drive characteristics to suit the conditions at hand.

Counteracting the mountain of power and torque is a high-performance steel braking package comprising six-piston front brake callipers, four-piston rears, 36x400mm front rotors and 36x360mm rears.

Even more stopping power will be offered by the optional carbon ceramic pack, which swaps out the steel stoppers for a set of bigger and lighter 38x410mm front rotors and 38x360mm rears.

Opting for the carbon ceramics shaves 27kg of unsprung mass off the 1685kg dry weight, which in turn should help elevate the dynamics even further.

This dynamic focus is reflected in the driver-centric cabin design, which places occupants below the shoulder line and encapsulates them with a high centre console and narrow glasshouse.

Headlining the equipment list is Aston Martin’s first fully inhouse-developed infotainment system, accessed via a 10.25-inch interface and supporting wireless smartphone mirroring, connected services, 3D mapping, live traffic updates and over-the-air updates while playing through an 11-speaker sound system.

The DB12’s reveal coincides with the brand’s 110th anniversary as well as the 75th anniversary of the DB nameplate, meaning it’s causing quite the stir amongst company executives.

“DB12 is a statement car. One that asserts Aston Martin’s position as a leader in performance, dynamics, engineering and technology,” Aston Martin group chief technology officer Roberto Fedeli said.

“We have pushed every aspect of this car to be best-in-class.

“Combined with exceptional handling and an exciting soundtrack, it is a car with passion and a truly sporting character … DB12 is the start of Aston Martin’s most exciting new era.”

Australia pricing and allocation details are yet to be locked in for the DB12, but first global deliveries are schedules to start in the third quarter of the year. The new DB12 coupe will be followed by the convertible Volante version at a later date.

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