Aston Martin has introduced the DB12 S, the latest halo model in its iconic DB series. Building on the standard DB12, the DB12 S brings increased power, sharper handling, and bespoke styling, aiming to set a new benchmark for Aston Martin’s grand touring coupes.
Powertrain and Performance
The Aston Martin DB12 S is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 515 kW of power and 800 Nm of torque. This enables the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and achieve a top speed of 202 mph. Key performance specifications are summarised below:
| Specification | Detail |
| Engine | 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 |
| Power | 515 kW @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 3,000–6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 3.4 seconds |
| Top Speed | 202 mph |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic with gearshift times reduced by >50% |
| Throttle | Progressive drive-by-wire mapping |
| Launch Control | Optimised for quicker sprints |
| Exhaust | Standard quad tailpipe; optional titanium system (+1.5dB, −11.7kg) |
The car’s upgraded transmission, throttle mapping, and Launch Control work together to deliver faster acceleration and sharper response. Buyers can choose between the standard stainless steel exhaust or a lighter, louder titanium option, adding a distinctive engine note.
Chassis and handling
Aston Martin has made several updates to the suspension and chassis to improve agility and driver connection:
- Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers recalibrated for better roll and pitch control
- Stiffer rear anti-roll bar
- Adjusted camber, toe, and caster geometry
- Fine-tuned steering calibration and electronic rear differential
The car comes standard with Carbon Ceramic Brakes (410mm front, 360mm rear), reducing unsprung weight by 27kg while delivering consistent stopping performance. Advanced corner braking control enables improved stability and predictable handling in high-speed and track conditions.
Exterior design
The Aston Martin DB12 S features a package of design upgrades reflecting its higher performance:
- Dual-element front splitter and bonnet louvres in gloss black or optional carbon fibre
- Gloss black side sills
- Fixed rear spoiler and redesigned diffuser
- Quad exhaust tailpipes arranged diagonally within a wider rear bumper
- ‘S’ badging on the fenders for subtle differentiation
These changes are designed to strike a balance between visual aggression and aerodynamic function, thereby enhancing high-speed stability and airflow management.
Interior highlights
The cabin of the Aston Martin DB12 S includes several S-specific touches:
- Red anodised finish on the knurled drive mode rotary controller, matching seatbelts, stitching, and headrest embroidery
- Choice of three trim packages: Accelerate leather & Alcantara, Inspire S semi-aniline leather & Alcantara, or Inspire S full semi-aniline leather
- 16-way Sport Plus electric front seats standard, with optional Carbon Fibre Performance seats
- Optional heated Alcantara sports steering wheel
- Aston Martin wings on the seat headrests were created via a combined embossing and debossing process for precise sculptural detail
Availability
The Aston Martin DB12 S is available in both Coupe and Volante configurations. Orders are open now, with customer deliveries expected in the first quarter of 2026. While Australian pricing has not been announced, the regular DB12 starts from $455,000 for the Coupe and $492,000 for the Volante before on-road costs.
Legacy of ‘S’ Models
The DB12 S continues Aston Martin’s tradition of high-performance ‘S’ variants, following the DBX S and Vantage S. This lineage dates back to the DB3S road racer of 1953 and includes notable models such as the Vanquish S, V8 Vantage S, and V12 Vantage S, as well as the Rapide S.
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