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Forget GT, the New Aston Martin DB12 is a Super Tourer
By Somnath Chatterjee - News Published:
Think about Aston Martin and you get visions of its DB models which have been etched in our memories as the ultimate GT cars. However, the brand wants to steer your attention towards the new DB12 which is a Super Tourer in Aston speak, forget ‘GT’.
Calling it a facelift DB11 is a bit unfair as the DB12 is brimming with loads of performance car technology along with an all-new interior. The car is crucial for Aston Martin in forming the base for its sports car sales and has also been made under the supervision of its new leadership, which includes ex-Ferrari CEO Amedio Felisa.
Gone is the V12 and instead the 4.0 Twin-Turbo V8 engine has been significantly overhauled to pump out 671bhp and 800Nm. Hence, with a 202mph top speed and a 0-100 km/h time of 3.5 seconds, you won’t be missing the V12 that much.
RELATED: Aston Martin DBX707 AMR23 Edition is an F1-Ready SUV.
Aston Martin DB12 | Image: Aston Martin
To squeeze out this much power, there are modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger diameter turbochargers, and increased cooling. At the same time, there’s a managed increase in thermal demands with a completely redesigned cooling system that offers an additional two auxiliary coolers to the existing central main radiator. Thermal airflow also comes to the party with a 56 per cent increase in open apertures allowing more cold air to flow into the radiators, while centrally-mounted bonnet vents placed above the twin turbos allow hot air to escape.
You don’t get a manual – but that doesn’t really fit into the GT ethos anyways – instead, there’s an 8-speed automatic with an Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff) at the rear. This differential is linked to the car’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. Unlike a conventional Limited Slip Differential, it can go from fully open to 100 per cent locked in milliseconds. The DB12 is now a much sharper tool.
Traction and grip have been worked on along with a marked reduction in shift speeds thanks to tweaked gear ratios plus in-gear acceleration has been made punchier too. There’s an increase in torsional stiffness plus the addition of new adaptive dampers that shift the focus towards driving engagement rather than just being a boulevard cruiser. Plus Aston has also brought in custom-made Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S tyres for the car.
Aston Martin DB12 | Image: Aston Martin
Inside, you get modern switchgear and it lets go of the old infotainment system which has plagued current Aston Martins, check out Ben’s review of the gorgeous Vantage F1 Edition to get his fiery take on that. You’ll also find a higher set centre console plus new screens and a new gear selector. The new infotainment system was designed by Aston Martin themselves and features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto within a 10.25-inch display, it looks like a proper unit. There are OTA updates and a new app while an optional 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system ramps up the luxury quotient further. Quilted leather seats and cabin jewellery is also present as you’d expect.
Overall, we love the way it looks. It’s a little more DBS now with its wider track and muscular haunches along with a larger grille, but it’s sharp and focused too. Pricing and availability for the Australian market will be detailed closer to its release.
Check out the Aston Martin DB12
Aston Martin DB12 | Image: Aston Martin
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