Aston Martin just sharpened the DB12 with a new S variant packing 690 horsepower and comprehensive chassis improvements.
The halo model joins the DBX S and Vantage S introduced earlier this year as part of CEO Adrian Hallmark’s plan for expanded model variants.
The twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 gains 20 horsepower and maintains 590 lb-ft of torque through tuning upgrades.
The extra power combined with optimized launch control and quicker shifts drops the 0 to 60 mph time to 3.4 seconds for the coupe, with the Volante convertible needing 3.5 seconds. Top speed remains unchanged at 202 mph.
Launch control improvements cut gearshift times by over 50% compared to the regular model. Engineers fine-tuned throttle calibration with new S-specific drive-by-wire mapping for more progressive pedal feel and a greater sense of connection and control.
Suspension revisions include stiffer rear anti-roll bar alongside finessed camber, toe, and caster geometry settings. New software for Bilstein DTX dampers improves roll and pitch control.
Revised steering and electronic rear differential promise better connection and response for more natural and intuitive feel.
Carbon ceramic brakes come standard, saving 60 pounds of unsprung weight compared to steel setup.
The system features 16.1-inch front and 14.2-inch rear discs with next-generation corner braking control, providing better performance and thermal capacity.
Styling changes stay subtle but effective. The dual-element front splitter visually lowers and widens the car while adding downforce, guiding air around the front wheel arches.
The ventilated hood features louvres in gloss black or optional twill carbon fiber. Gloss black side skirts continue the lowered appearance alongside 21-inch wheels.
The rear receives a fixed spoiler and aggressive bumper accommodating stacked stainless steel quad tailpipe exhaust.
Optional titanium exhaust increases volume by 1.5 dB while saving an additional 25.8 pounds, though whether 1.5 dB justifies the upgrade cost remains questionable.
On the inside, a red anodized rotary controller joins 16-way power sport seats with Alcantara and leather upholstery. Gloss black and dark satin chrome trim complete the cabin upgrades. Three interior trim configurations are available.
Options include carbon fiber performance seats, heated Alcantara sports steering wheel, Bowers & Wilkins premium audio, garage door opener, and aluminum or wood trim choices.
The DB12 S is available in both coupe and convertible configurations with orders currently being accepted. Deliveries begin early next year, though Aston Martin hasn’t released pricing yet.
The regular DB12 starts at $250,000, suggesting the S variant will likely exceed $275,000.
James Bond might be on hiatus, but the DB12 S represents exactly the kind of upgraded grand tourer the fictional spy would appreciate.
More power, sharper handling, and subtle visual aggression without screaming for attention perfectly suits the understated British performance ethos.
Whether buyers value 20 extra horsepower and chassis tweaks enough to justify the premium over the already excellent standard DB12 depends on individual priorities.
For those seeking the ultimate DB12 experience, the S variant delivers meaningful improvements beyond just badge engineering.
