Aston Martin Unleashes the 700-HP DB12 S: The Super Tourer, Sharpened

In the exclusive world of grand touring, the Aston Martin DB line has always represented a masterful blend of breathtaking beauty, long-distance comfort, and exhilarating performance. With the arrival of the DB12, the marque boldly declared it had created the world's first "Super Tourer," a car that elevated the segment with unprecedented power and dynamic capability. But for Aston Martin, the pinnacle is always just a starting point for something even more focused, more potent, and more emotionally engaging. Now, the next evolution has arrived.

Aston Martin is proud to unveil the magnificent DB12 S. Taking the groundbreaking DB12 as its foundation, the "S" version amplifies every key attribute, meticulously honing the car's performance, sharpening its dynamics, and dressing it in a more assertive and aerodynamically functional style. This is not merely a DB12 with more power; it is a comprehensive, chassis-focused evolution designed to deliver a deeper, more thrilling connection between the driver and the road.

Joining the acclaimed DBX S and Vantage S, the DB12 S is the latest model to bear the legendary "S" suffix, a badge that has historically signified the ultimate expression of an Aston Martin model. Already available for order worldwide, including in Brazil through Aston Martin São Paulo, in both Coupé and Volante (convertible) forms, the DB12 S is poised to become the new apex predator of the Super Tourer category, with first deliveries expected to begin in the first quarter of 2026.

The "S" Legacy: A Heritage Forged in Performance

To truly understand the significance of the DB12 S, one must look back at the revered history of the "S" badge. This is not a modern marketing invention; it is a tradition steeped in motorsport and high-performance engineering that dates back over 70 years.

The custom began in 1953 with the DB3S, a lighter, more powerful, and more aerodynamic version of the DB3 competition car. The DB3S went on to achieve tremendous success, securing victories at prestigious events and cementing the "S" as a mark of a winner.

In the modern era, the badge has been reserved for the most formidable versions of Aston Martin's road cars. The first-generation Vanquish S of 2004 and its second-generation successor in 2016 were both celebrated for their increased power and enhanced agility. The V8 and V12 Vantage S models, introduced in 2011 and 2013 respectively, became icons of the brand, beloved by enthusiasts for their raw, unfiltered driving experience. Even the elegant four-door Rapide was given the treatment in 2013, with the Rapide S delivering a compelling blend of luxury and sharpened sporting character.

The DB12 S proudly joins this illustrious lineage. It embodies the same philosophy: to take an already exceptional car and methodically enhance it to create a more intense, rewarding, and unforgettable driving machine.

The Heart of the Beast: An Uprated Powertrain and a New Soundtrack

At the core of the DB12 S lies an even more potent version of Aston Martin’s formidable 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. Through meticulous tuning and engineering, the power output has been increased to an immense 700 PS (approximately 690 HP) at 6,000 rpm—a significant 20 PS increase over the standard DB12. The prodigious torque figure of 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) remains, but it is now delivered across a wider band from 3,000 to 6,000 rpm, providing a relentlessly strong wave of acceleration.

This enhanced power translates directly to improved performance figures. The DB12 S demolishes the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in just 3.4 seconds, a tenth of a second quicker than the standard car. The top speed remains a staggering 325 km/h (202 mph).

However, the "S" treatment is about more than just raw numbers; it’s about the quality of the driving experience. The entire powertrain has been recalibrated for a more precise and engaging response. Engineers have optimized the Launch Control system and, crucially, reduced gear shift times by over 50%. These quicker, more assertive shifts not only contribute to the improved acceleration but also make the car feel more alert and connected during spirited driving.

Furthermore, the throttle pedal has been completely recalibrated. A new "S-specific" drive-by-wire acceleration map has been introduced to give the pedal a more progressive feel. This allows the driver to mete out the immense power with greater precision, fostering a deeper sense of control and connection to the machine.

Complementing this intensified performance is a new and distinctive engine note. The DB12 S features a new sport exhaust system with four prominent stainless-steel tailpipes. This system has been specifically tuned to accentuate the engine's frequencies across the entire rev range, delivering greater depth and a more powerful, characterful soundtrack. For those seeking the ultimate auditory experience, an optional full titanium exhaust system is available. This upgrade not only amplifies the V8’s symphony, intensifying the bass, mid, and high-range frequencies for a 1.5 dB increase in volume, but it also reduces weight by a significant 11.7 kg (25.8 lbs).

A Masterclass in Dynamics: Honing the Chassis, Brakes, and Steering

The true genius of the DB12 S is revealed in its chassis. The engineering team, led by Director of Vehicle Performance Simon Newton, embarked on an extensive program to enhance the car's agility and driver feedback without compromising its renowned refinement.

"The technology we introduced with the DB12 now allows us exceptional scope to explore a new depth of character and capability within the same vehicle platform," says Newton. "With the DB12 S, we have carefully engineered a series of changes that preserve the hallmark levels of refinement while increasing vehicle performance and amplifying driver involvement."

A suite of changes to the chassis provides a proportional increase in agility, connection, and precision. The software for the advanced Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers has been revised to improve body control, working in harmony with a stiffer rear anti-roll bar and refined camber, toe, and caster geometry settings. This combination results in sharper turn-in, reduced body roll, and a greater sense of confidence for the driver.

Further calibrations to the steering and the electronic rear differential (E-diff) have allowed Aston Martin's engineers to fine-tune the car's connection and response for a more natural and intuitive feel. The DB12 S can now carry more throttle earlier in a corner, delivering maximum satisfaction from entry to exit. It strikes a flawless balance of agility and stability, providing the ultimate in driving pleasure and confidence.

A landmark upgrade for the DB12 S is the inclusion of Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB) as standard equipment. This is a significant enhancement that has a profound effect on the car’s dynamics. The massive discs—measuring 410mm in diameter at the front and 360mm at the rear—offer vastly superior braking performance, exceptional resistance to fade during hard use, and consistent pedal feel.

Critically, the CCB system saves an enormous 27 kg (59.5 lbs) of unsprung weight compared to the standard steel brakes. This reduction has a transformative effect on the car's handling, improving ride quality, sharpening steering feel, and allowing the wheels to follow the road surface more accurately.

The DB12 S also benefits from a next-generation Corner Braking Control (CBC) system. This predictive function allows the car to maintain stability while braking into a corner, using more of the rear braking power to hold a tighter, more stable line from turn-in to apex. This system empowers the driver to brake later and with more confidence, while the Integrated Brake Slip Control provides torque vectoring on the rear axle for a predictable, precise, and consistent feel in all driving environments.

Form Follows Function: An Assertive New Style

The visual identity of the DB12 S is a direct reflection of its enhanced performance. The new styling is more assertive, with every change serving both an aesthetic and a functional purpose.

At the front, the car is identified by a new two-element front splitter and new hood louvres. The splitter visually lowers and widens the car's stance while generating downforce and managing airflow around the front wheels to reduce lift. The hood louvres, available in gloss black or optional 2x2 Twill Carbon Fibre, are not just for show; they play a crucial role in extracting hot air from the potent V8 engine bay.

Along the sides, new gloss black sills continue the line from the front splitter, enhancing the car's low-slung, ground-hugging posture. The DB12 S also proudly wears the signature forged "S" badges on the fenders, available in bright or dark chrome with a distinctive red glass enamel inlay.

The rear of the DB12 S makes an emphatic statement. A new fixed rear spoiler increases high-speed stability, while a new rear diffuser works to reduce lift. This new diffuser also makes way for the car's signature stacked quad exhaust pipes, which are framed by a wider rear bumper for maximum visual impact.

An Interior of Focused Luxury

Inside, the DB12 S features a host of distinctive details exclusive to the top-tier model. The centerpiece is the red anodized finish on the knurled metal drive mode rotary controller, a vibrant touchpoint that sets the tone for the cabin. This red accent is echoed in the optional seatbelts, contrast seat piping, stitching, and headrest embroidery.

Three interior trim themes are offered: the sporty Accelerate leather and Alcantara, the luxurious Inspire S semi-aniline leather, and a combination of both. The Inspire S packages include exquisite "S" quilting with micro-perforation and an Alcantara headliner. The standard 16-way adjustable Sport Plus seats can be upgraded to the optional Carbon Fibre Performance seats for those seeking the ultimate in support and weight saving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is the DB12 S different from the standard DB12? Who is it for?

A: While the standard DB12 is the definitive Super Tourer, the DB12 S is for the driver who desires an even sharper, more dynamic, and more engaging experience. With its standard carbon ceramic brakes, honed chassis, and increased power, it is the ultimate expression of performance within the DB12 lineage, aimed at the true driving enthusiast.

Q2: Are the Carbon Ceramic Brakes really that big of a deal?

A: Absolutely. Making them standard equipment is a major statement. They not only provide superior, fade-resistant stopping power but the 27 kg reduction in unsprung weight is a massive engineering benefit that improves every aspect of the car’s handling, steering, and ride quality.

Q3: Does the Volante (convertible) version get all the same performance upgrades?

A: Yes. The DB12 S Volante receives the full suite of powertrain and chassis upgrades as the Coupé, ensuring that the open-top driving experience is just as thrilling and dynamically capable.

Q4: What is the price of the new Aston Martin DB12 S?

A: Aston Martin has not released official pricing at this time, but as the top-of-the-line performance model, the DB12 S will command a significant premium over the standard DB12. Prospective buyers should contact their local dealer, such as Aston Martin São Paulo, for detailed pricing and ordering information.

Conclusion: The Super Tourer, Perfected

The Aston Martin DB12 S is more than just a car with impressive numbers. It is a testament to the company's relentless pursuit of automotive excellence. It takes the revolutionary Super Tourer concept introduced by the DB12 and injects it with a potent dose of the legendary "S" spirit—more power, more precision, and more passion.

Every enhancement, from the recalibrated engine to the standard carbon ceramic brakes and the functional aerodynamics, has been carefully engineered to amplify the connection between the driver, the machine, and the road. It is a car that preserves the long-distance comfort and ultraluxurious refinement expected of an Aston Martin DB model, while delivering a level of agility and driver involvement that pushes it into a new realm of excitement. For the discerning enthusiast seeking the ultimate blend of performance and luxury in 2025, the Aston Martin DB12 S is, unequivocally, the new benchmark.