Aston Martin adds more fuel to the fire with the new DB12 S in Coupé and Volante versions

Aston Martin is one of those few brands that manages to combine luxury, exclusivity and sportiness across all its models, but when these models carry the tag “S” in their name, that final adjective is taken to the maximum without giving up an ounce of the first two. A tradition the British marque began in 1953 with the DB3S, and there are recent examples such as the DBX S and the Vantage S, to which another illustrious model from the Aston Martin range will be joining: the DB12.

Although the basic DB12, in both Coupé and Volante form, had already raised the standard for high-performance Super Tourers, Aston Martin goes even further with the new DB12 S. A good example of this is its engine, the well-known 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, which gains 20 CV to now reach 700 CV, while torque is set at 800 Nm, available between 3,000 and 6,000 rpm and sent to the rear axle through the eight-speed automatic gearbox signed by ZF. With this configuration, the DB12 S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and reaches a limited top speed of 325 km/h.

This new engine setup means not only more power but also a more radical driving experience, offering a greater sense of agility and connection with the car, as well as greater confidence and stability. To achieve this, changes have been made to the software of the Bilstein DTX dampers for better control of pitch and roll, together with a stiffer rear anti-roll bar and tuned camber, caster and toe parameters. Finally, to deliver a more natural and intuitive driving feel and allow earlier acceleration out of the apex of a corner, Aston Martin engineers have also fine-tuned the steering and the electronic rear differential (E-Diff).

In terms of safety and a more radical driving experience, the Aston Martin DB12 S benefits from the latest generation of Cornering Brake Control (CBC), which works in combination with the Integrated Brake Slip Control and Integrated Vehicle Control modules. This allows the car to maintain optimal stability when braking on corner entry, relying mainly on the rear brakes and adjusting the turn-in up to the apex. It also comes as standard with carbon-fibre-reinforced ceramic brakes (CCB), measuring 410 mm at the front and 360 mm at the rear, which save 27 kg compared with the steel brakes fitted to the DB12. Last but not least, we must not forget the stainless steel exhaust system with four tailpipes, which increases the sound by 1.5 dB and reduces weight by 11.7 kg.

Aesthetically, the Aston Martin DB12 S is easily distinguishable from a standard DB12. Firstly, its front features a double front splitter, which widens its appearance and generates greater aerodynamic downforce, while bonnet vents in Gloss Black or optional 2×2 Twill carbon fibre are also fitted to help cool the engine. On the sides, side skirts connect with the front splitter, also finished in Gloss Black, while at the rear a discreet yet elegant rear spoiler has been installed along with a wider rear bumper housing the new rear diffuser and the exhaust outlets.

The interior of the Aston Martin DB12 S can be specified in three trim options: Accelerate leather with Alcantara fabric trim, Inspire S semi-aniline leather with Alcantara, and fully Inspire S semi-aniline leather. The last two also add a herringbone quilted pattern with the “S” and micro-perforations, as well as an Alcantara roof lining. The seats are electric Sport Plus units with 16-way adjustment, replaceable with high-performance carbon-fibre seats, alongside other options such as a heated steering wheel trimmed in Alcantara. All of this is complemented by aesthetic details such as the red anodised finish on the knurled metal drive mode rotary control or the seatbelts in the same colour, among others, making it clear that this is a distinct version.

The new Aston Martin DB12 S is now available to order in Coupé and Volante versions, with deliveries to customers starting in the first quarter of 2026.