Aston Martin DB12 Unveiled as World’s First-Ever ‘Super-Tourer’

Following the initial teaser, Aston Martin has finally unveiled the next-gen DB model, the DB12. Dubbed as the “world’s first super tourer,” the DB12 continues the long legacy of the DB nameplate, while marking the beginning of a new era of sportscars from the Gaydon-based marque.

2024 Aston Martin DB12 -  world's first 'super tourer'

Ironically, the DB12 is not offered with a V12 engine, which has been a staple in any previous DB models, dating back to the DB7.

Instead, the DB12 carries an AMG-sourced 4.0-litre V8 biturbo mill that produces 671 HP and 800 NM to boot – making it the most powerful DB model ever. Even with fewer cylinders and smaller displacement, the DB12 is still more powerful compared to the souped-up DB11 AMR, which boasts a bigger 5.2-litre V12 engine under its hood.

The AMG engine works in tandem with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission to propel the DB12 from nought to 100 KM/H in just 3.6 seconds. Flat out, the DB12 is capable of reaching 325 KM/H.

In charge of stopping the DB12 is a carbon ceramic braking system that weighs 27 KG lighter than the ones on the DB11. Other mechanical highlights of the DB12 includes the reworked chassis that is 7% stiffer than before, upgraded suspension with new adaptive dampers and stiffer roll bars, as well as the addition of electronic limited-slip differential – first-time ever fitted in any DB models.

The massive grille is here to stay, while the teardrop-shaped headlights are sporty additions indeed

Visually, the DB12 shares many design traits from the model it replaces, but still carries several changes to make it distinct enough from the other. Up front, the DB12 sports a new front bumper design, featuring a larger front grille that is flanked by a pair of teardrop-shaped LED headlights. Crowning above them is a revised AM badge, while the new front hood comes with dual vents on it.

The rear half of the car pretty much mirrors the DB11, featuring the sloping roofline, C-shaped LED taillights and sporty twin tailpipes. The only noticeable difference is the addition of Aston Martin lettering that sits below the iconic AM wings emblem.

Elsewhere, the DB12 rides on new 21-inch wheels, featuring fancy multi-spoke design. In spite of being one-size up from the 20-inch wheels on the DB11, these new wheels are 8 KG lighter than the old ones. Plus, they are shodded in bespoke Michelin Pilot 5S performance tyres, which feature noise-cancelling polyurethane foam inserts that promise to reduce tyre noises by 20%.

On board, the DB12 felt more new as Aston Martin finally ditched the ancient Mercedes infotainment platform in favour of a newer one. Crowning above the central console is a 10.25-inch infotainment display which has wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, built-in sat-nav system, a voice assistant, as well as 4G connectivity that allows over-the-air updates.

Below the screen sits a floating central console that houses many of the controls not only for the infotainment system, but also for the climate control and driving. Drivers, on the other hand, will get a sizable digital instrument cluster that hides behind the sporty  steering wheel that comes with carbon fibre paddle shifters and multiple controls and buttons.

Topping-off the cabin equipment list is the 11-speaker premium audio speakers that can be upgraded to a 15-speaker one by Bowers and Wilkins.

With this just being a mere unveiling, the 2024 Aston Martin DB12 will make its market entry later in Q3 this year, with its price yet to be revealed by the British automaker. And like many other DB models before, we can expect to see a DB12 Volante coming sooner or later.