Aston Martin is delighted to announce a new flagship model for the DB12 range, the DB12 S. Building on the DB12, a thrilling, driver-focused model, the DB12 S develops that pioneering recipe for intensely dynamic, ultra-luxurious performance by increasing both power and dynamic capability. Along with striking exterior changes and a host of interior enhancements, the DB12 S is the new pinnacle of Super Tourers.

Following the DBX S and Vantage S, the DB12 S is the latest model to pay homage to a long-standing Aston Martin tradition of applying the letter “S” to high-performance variants derived from an established model. A tradition that began in 1953 with the glorious DB3S racing car. More recent examples include the first and second generation Vanquish S (launched in 2004 and 2016, respectively), the V8 and V12 Vantage S models introduced in 2011 and 2013, and the magnificent Rapide S, also launched in 2013.

At the heart of the new DB12 S is an even more powerful version of Aston Martin’s formidable 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8. Now delivering 700bhp at 6,000rpm (an increase of 20bhp) and 800Nm between 3,000 and 6,000rpm, the DB12 S offers vibrant response, relentless acceleration and a top speed of 325km/h.

In keeping with this superlative spirit, the DB12 S features a new and distinctive exhaust note. The new stainless steel sports exhaust system with four tailpipes has been tuned to accentuate the engine’s frequencies across the rev range, pursuing greater depth and power. An optional titanium exhaust system amplifies this soundtrack, further enhancing the low, mid and high frequencies, raising the sound level by 1.5 dB while reducing weight by 11.7 kg compared to the stainless steel system.

Changes to the powertrain calibration have optimised the output control system, reducing gear change times by more than 50% and contributing to a 0.1 second improvement in 0-100 km/h acceleration, which is now just 3.5 seconds. Aston Martin engineers have further refined the throttle calibration, giving it a more progressive feel with a new drive-by-wire acceleration map tailored for the “S”, to give the driver an even greater sense of connection and control.

A comprehensive package of chassis changes seeks to increase the driver’s sense of agility, connection and precision, along with improvements in feel and stability. Changes to the Bilstein DTX damper software to increase roll and pitch control work in harmony with a stiffer rear stabiliser bar and tuned drop, divergence and advance parameters. All these changes together deliver improvements in front-end security and an overall feeling of agility.

Further refinement of the steering calibration and rear electronic differential (E-Diff) has enabled Aston Martin’s chassis engineers to further improve connection and response for an even more natural and intuitive feel. With the ability to use more throttle earlier in the corner for maximum satisfaction from start to finish, the DB12 S achieves a perfect balance between agility and usability, coupled with underlying stability for unrivalled confidence and enjoyment.

Another significant upgrade to the DB12 S is the standard carbon fibre reinforced ceramic (CCB) brakes. Offering improved braking performance and thermal capacity alongside a significant reduction in unsprung weight, the CCB brakes (410mm diameter at the front, 360mm at the rear) combine linear braking response and excellent pedal feel with exceptional fatigue resistance. In addition, they save 27 kg of unsprung weight compared to steel brakes, delivering benefits in terms of ride quality, steering feel and dynamic handling.

The DB12 S also benefits from the latest generation of Cornering Brake Control (CBC), which optimises the interaction between the Integrated Brake Slip Control and Integrated Vehicle Control modules. A predictive function within the CBC allows the car to maintain optimum stability when braking into a corner, making greater use of the rear brake to better match the line from the corner entry to the apex.

This system allows the driver to brake later and with greater stability, while the Integrated Brake Slip Control system provides torque vectoring across the rear axle to deliver predictable, precise and consistent cornering behaviour in all driving environments, from winding country roads to high-speed motorway exits and race tracks.

Simon Newton, Director of Vehicle Performance at Aston Martin, said: “The technology we have introduced with the DB12 now gives us exceptional scope to explore a new depth of character and capability within the same vehicle platform. With the DB12 S, we have carefully engineered a number of detailed changes that preserve the characteristic levels of refinement, increase the vehicle’s performance and amplify the driving experience. By adding this increased dynamic and performance bandwidth to the DB12 S, we believe it elevates the super touring car character to a new and exciting level.”

Visually, the new DB12 S reflects its significantly enhanced performance and sporting feel with a striking new look. Starting at the front, the DB12 S features a new twin front splitter and new bonnet vents, each playing a functional and aesthetic role.

The splitter lowers and optically widens the DB12 S, giving it a more assertive look, while also generating downforce and guiding airflow to and around the front wheel arches to stabilise it and further reduce lift. The bonnet vents, finished in Gloss Black or optional 2×2 Twill carbon fibre, help extract hot air from the 4.0-litre V8 engine in a “hot-V” configuration, while also completing the more aggressive look of the DB12 S’s front end.

On the sides, the DB12 S features additional Gloss Black elements on the side skirts. These follow the line drawn by the new front splitter, further reinforcing its low-slung stance. The DB12 S also continues the tradition of placing S badges in key locations. Specifically, on the wings, just below each side moulding. The hand-forged “S” badge, finished in bright or dark chrome and topped with red glass enamel, is a discreet but permanent indication of performance.

The rear design of the DB12 S is a statement of intent that captures the essence of increased power, greater dynamics and unforgettable sound. Once again, aerodynamics play a key role, with the fixed rear spoiler adding drama and increasing stability at high speeds. Beneath it is the new rear diffuser, which reduces lift while making room for the DB12 S’s signature twin pairs of stacked tailpipes, framed within a wider rear bumper for maximum visual impact.

In line with its garage mates bearing the letter “S” within Aston Martin’s revitalised range, the interior of the DB12 S features a host of refined details exclusive to the flagship model. These include the red anodised finish on the knurled metal rotary control for the driving modes, a colour that is also used on the seat belts, contrasting seat piping, contrasting stitching and headrest embroidery.

Attractive options available for the DB12 S include a heated Alcantara^® sports steering wheel and Aston Martin’s iconic wings on the seat headrests, engraved using an industry-first technique that employs both raised and recessed engraving for unprecedented precision and sculptural depth.

The DB12 S offers a choice of three interior finishes: Accelerate leather and Alcantara trim, Inspire S semi-aniline leather and Alcantara, and full Inspire S semi-aniline leather. The two Inspire S packages include the herringbone quilted pattern with S and micro-perforations and Alcantara headlining. The DB12 S is equipped as standard with 16-way adjustable electric Sport Plus front seats, plus the option of a high-performance carbon fibre seat.

The DB12 S is now available to order in Coupé and Volante versions, with deliveries scheduled for the first quarter of 2026.