Aston Martin DB12 S: The Evolution of the Ultimate Super Tourer - AllCarIndex

Aston Martin announced the DB12 S, presenting a new halo model for its distinguished DB series. Building upon the foundation of the acclaimed DB12, the DB12 S represented the ultimate expression of Aston Martin’s modern Super Tourer philosophy, offering greater power, enhanced dynamics, and a refined yet assertive design identity.

Heritage and Lineage

The DB12 S carried forward Aston Martin’s long-standing tradition of applying the “S” designation to its highest-performing models, a practice that dated back to 1953 with the DB3S road racer. Over the decades, this suffix became synonymous with peak performance and dynamic evolution, appearing on models such as the Vanquish S of 2004 and 2016, the V8 and V12 Vantage S introduced in 2011 and 2013, and the Rapide S of 2013. By joining the DBX S and Vantage S in 2025, the DB12 S reaffirmed this lineage and stood as the flagship of the contemporary DB family.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the DB12 S was Aston Martin’s 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, further refined to deliver 700 PS at 6,000 rpm and 800 Nm of torque between 3,000 and 6,000 rpm. These figures represented an increase of 20 PS over the standard DB12 and translated into a 0–60 mph time of 3.4 seconds for the Coupe and 3.5 seconds for the Volante. Both variants achieved a top speed of 202 mph.

The powertrain calibration was revised to deliver sharper responses and greater driver engagement. Launch Control optimisation, together with faster gearshift times reduced by more than 50 per cent, contributed to the improved acceleration figures. A newly developed throttle map and drive-by-wire calibration provided a more progressive pedal response, enhancing precision and control.

The DB12 S also introduced a distinctive new exhaust character. The standard stainless steel quad-exit sports system was tuned for depth and tonal richness throughout the rev range, while an optional titanium system amplified the sound by 1.5 decibels and reduced overall weight by 11.7 kilograms.

Chassis and Driving Dynamics

The chassis of the DB12 S was extensively revised to match the increased performance potential. Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers received updated software to improve roll and pitch control, while a stiffer rear anti-roll bar and revised suspension geometry enhanced front-end response and cornering agility. The steering system and electronic rear differential were recalibrated to improve feedback, precision and traction, allowing earlier throttle application through corners.

Standard fitment of Carbon Ceramic Brakes provided a major performance upgrade. With 410-millimetre front and 360-millimetre rear discs, the system offered greater stopping power, improved thermal stability and a 27-kilogram reduction in unsprung mass compared with steel brakes. This contributed to sharper handling, improved ride quality and enhanced steering feel.

Aston Martin also introduced an advanced Corner Braking Control system that optimised braking stability during turn-in. By integrating the Brake Slip Control and Vehicle Control modules, the system allowed the car to maintain optimal balance while trail braking, with torque vectoring across the rear axle delivering precise, consistent behaviour through every corner.

Exterior Design and Aerodynamics

Visually, the DB12 S expressed its heightened performance through a series of purposeful design changes. At the front, a new dual-element splitter and functional bonnet louvres improved aerodynamic balance and cooling efficiency while visually lowering the stance of the car. The louvres, available in gloss black or optional 2x2 twill carbon fibre, extracted heat from the engine bay and completed the aggressive frontal profile.

Along the sides, gloss black sill extensions continued the aerodynamic line established by the splitter, emphasising the car’s width and stance. Hand-finished forged “S” badges, set beneath the fender strakes, provided a discreet yet distinctive mark of identity.

At the rear, the fixed spoiler and new diffuser played key roles in managing airflow, increasing high-speed stability and reducing lift. The redesigned rear bumper incorporated stacked quad exhaust outlets, giving the DB12 S a bold and unmistakable visual signature.

Interior and Craftsmanship

Inside, the DB12 S combined traditional Aston Martin craftsmanship with a series of unique design details exclusive to this model. A red anodised rotary drive mode selector served as a focal point on the centre console, its colour echoed in the seatbelt webbing, stitching and headrest embroidery. The cabin offered a choice of materials and configurations that balanced luxury with sporting intent.

Three interior themes were available. The Accelerate theme combined leather and Alcantara, while Inspire S combined semi-aniline leather with Alcantara for a richer tactile experience. A full semi-aniline Inspire S interior was also offered, highlighting the highest levels of material quality and bespoke finishing. Both Inspire S options featured S Herringbone quilting with micro-perforations and an Alcantara headlining.

The DB12 S featured 16-way Sport Plus electric seats as standard, with the option of lightweight Carbon Fibre Performance seats for enhanced lateral support. Additional options included an Alcantara-wrapped heated steering wheel and headrests embossed and debossed with Aston Martin’s wings using a precision double-process technique.

Technical Overview

The DB12 S featured a bonded aluminium structure with composite panels and a fixed rear decklid incorporating Aston Martin’s Aeroblade system. Power was transmitted to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission and an electronic limited-slip differential, with drive modes including Wet, GT, Sport, Sport+ and Individual.

The Coupe version measured 4,725 millimetres in length, 2,145 millimetres in width including mirrors, and 1,295 millimetres in height, with a 2,805-millimetre wheelbase. Kerb weight was 1,820 kilograms with a 48:52 front-to-rear distribution. The Volante measured the same overall dimensions, standing 10 millimetres taller and weighing 1,930 kilograms with a 47:53 balance.

Both variants were equipped with 21-inch alloy wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S tyres, sized 275/35ZR21 at the front and 325/30ZR21 at the rear.

Production and Availability

The Aston Martin DB12 S was made available in both Coupe and Volante forms, with customer deliveries scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2026. Hand-built in Gaydon, it represented the culmination of Aston Martin’s continual refinement of the Super Tourer concept—balancing luxury, precision and performance within one of the most distinguished bloodlines in the marque’s history.