With the decades unfolding and the industry embracing electrification now more than ever, Aston Martins have undergone a fascinating metamorphosis, their silhouettes adapting to the pulse of progress. One element, however, that hasn’t changed is the analog heartbeat that has always defined the Aston Martin experience. And the latest Aston Martin DB12 clings to this very legacy. Though the engine might be low in cylinders (a degrade from V12 to a 671-hp twin-turbo V8), it loses none of the exhilarating spirit. Luckily, a 3.4-second 0 to 60 mph run is here to testify to that. Still worth mentioning is the top speed, now settling at an adrenaline-rushing 202 mph while indulging you in a luxurious embrace and quilted leather seats. Outside, the DB12 wears a masterful blend of heritage with a dash of modern aggression, where every curve and vent serves a purpose more than form. Of course, reflecting such exclusivity is a soaring sticker, with prices just shy of the $250,000 mark before the options are ticked in.
The ‘DB’ nameplate roared to life in the early 1950s when Aston Martin unleashed the DB2, a sleekly-styled coupe featuring a luxury-appointed cabin and a proud motorsport heritage, scoring leaderboard positions at the demanding Le Man’s and the gruelling Sebring. By the late 1950s, Aston introduced the DB Mark III, sporting elegant craftsmanship and – not to mention – a punchy straight six engine, powerful enough to fuel James Bond’s escapades. The silver-screen success would eventually lead to the iconic Aston Martin DB4, finished in the artful hands of the legendary Italian coachmaker Carrozzeria Touring. The DB4 would, like its predecessor, also go on to feature in the James Bond series. As the years progressed, the DB lineup evolved, spanning several generations of fast and exceptionally beautiful yet classic iterations, each achieving its own stardom in the James Bond series. With the 21st century just around the corner, a new era dawned on Aston Martin as the DB lineup became a fusion of tradition and innovation. From the aluminum-bonded bodywork found in the DB9 (2004 – 2016) and technologically superior DB10 (2015) to the cutting-edge DB11, the DB line seamlessly integrated modern marvels while retaining its timeless elegance.
Underneath the hood lies an AMG-sourced 4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, mustering a thunderous 671 horsepower and a neck-snapping 800 Nm of torque to the rear wheels only via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Luckily, the DB12 lives up to the hype, completing a standing 60-mph run in a blistering 3.4 seconds in a symphony of turbo spools and deep V8 growls. Floor it, and the DB12 will treat you with an even more dramatic, horizon-blurring top speed of 202 mph. Yet beneath its lean muscle, the DB12 graces a surprisingly agile nature, featuring stiffer, more tightened chassis and suspension upgrades over the DB11 predecessor. Meanwhile, the DB12 sits on bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport tires, offering unearthly amounts of grip for exceptional handling. Still, the optional carbon ceramic brakes are always ready to kick in, ensuring you step as confidently as you accelerate.
However, performance is not the only element that grabs your attention. Step inside, and you'll know. The DB12's cabin combines timeless elegance and driver-focused luxury, followed closely by exquisite craftsmanship and unwavering attention to detail – as expected from an Aston. With handstitched, quite plush Bridge of Weir hides lacing the cockpit, the DB12 offers supreme tactile delight, only to treat you with supple Alcantara swathing various interior trims. Meanwhile, on the topic of quality of materials and finishes, carbon fiber resins decorate the center console, providing a sporty edge to the interior. Also, towards the center stack, find an in-house developed 10.25-inch touchscreen, allowing driver-intuitive controls for sat-nav, phone connectivity, and a 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system to create an auditory sanctuary.
On the outside, the DB12 speaks of a bold design that pays homage to Aston Martin’s illustrious heritage while embracing an aggressive, highly modern design language. We start with the DB12’s front fascia that characterizes a sharp, rather menacing stance, incorporating the iconic horseshoe grille and sleek, redesigned LED headlamps, their gaze resembling that of a predator ready to pounce. Shift your eyes to the sides, and the low-slung stance comes into the complete picture. Here, sharply defined and flowing lines complement the DB12’s performance-oriented nature, creating a sense of motion even when the DB12 stands stationary. Eventually, muscular-looking 21-inch forged alloys clad in Michelins cascade across the side, their fit offering a unique complement to the wide, quite pronounced arches.
Even though the DB12 remains analog in heart and soul, it doesn't entirely cross out modern comforts. From the AMG-sourced twin-turbo V8 to the carbon-fiber monocoque chassis, the DB12 stands true to Aston's enduring legacy of crafting 'engaging' super tourers. Step inside, and the symphony of cutting-edge tech continues, evident through the in-house developed 10.25-inch infotainment system, boasting intuitive controls for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Luckily, safety is paramount with the DB12. And so, it flaunts an impressive array of cutting-edge safety features, including auto emergency braking, lane departure/keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, 360-degree surround-view cameras, and parking sensors, available as standard across the DB12 lineup.
In terms of pricing, the 2024 Aston Martin DB12 reflects its status as a luxury grand tourer, with starting prices sitting at a handsome $248,000. Option out the enticing extras, and the price climbs faster than its 0 to 60. However, pay $25k over the base and unlock the DB12 ‘Volante’ variant, combining a topless driving experience for those aching for an open-air ride-of-your-life. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the Aston Martin listings at Exotic Car Trader now to configure your dream DB12.
The Aston Martin DB12, with its soul-awakening performance, luxuriously appointed interior, and bold yet modern design, represents the pinnacle of British craftsmanship and a rich, quite storied legacy of automotive excellence. Looking for a safe and secure place to source your dream exotic car? Well, luckily, Exotic Car Trader has got you covered. At Exotic Car Trader, discover an impressive portfolio of exotic cars and supercars eager to exchange hands. By outlining a straightforward, highly intuitive car-buying process, it makes the car-buying journey a breeze. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a safe place to part ways with your exotic wheels, Exotic Car Trader offers a seamless car-selling experience.
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