Aston Martin DB12

The Aston Martin DB12 features a 4.0-litre, twin-turbo V8 engine, replacing the V12 engine in its previous models. This hand-built engine is a heavily modified version of the Mercedes-AMG engine, offering 670 bhp and 800 Nm of torque. ​Paired with an AMT ZF 8-speed transmission and Electronic Rear Differential, the engine, along with the transmission layout, delivers a dynamic driving experience across four different driving modes: GT, Wet, Sport, and Sport+.

Due to the DB12’s recent modifications, ride quality on city roads has become more manageable, thanks to the new Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers. Even with its wider stance, the car can navigate reasonably through pothole-ridden roads. Driving in ‘GT’ mode is best suited for cities, as the suspension and throttle are well-tuned for bump-free rides.

On the highways, the Aston Martin DB12 is a performance monster, reaching 0 to 100 kmph in 3.6 seconds and achieving a top speed of 325 kmph. Its adaptive dampers and refined tyres reduce outer road noise and enhance on-road stability, allowing the driver to cruise effortlessly across states. The ‘Sport+’ mode, in particular, elevates the car’s mid-tier performance to supercar levels on such occasions.

There is only one variant available in India: the Aston Martin DB12 Coupe, even though other trims such as the DB12 S, Volante, and Volante 60th Anniversary Edition are available for retail in other countries.

India’s variant has a 10.25-inch infotainment system integrated with Apple CarPlay Ultra. The car also features wireless charging, 21-inch forged alloy wheels, a laminated windscreen with excellent noise cancellation, ambient lighting, climate control, and heated seats. To maintain its long-term reliability, Aston Martin offers a 3-year warranty on the DB12 with no mileage cap. It is brought to India as a CBU (Completely Built Unit) from the UK, taking around 6-7 months to reach the subcontinent’s shores.

Since the Aston Martin DB12 is a top-end performance tourer, mileage is obviously not its strongest suit. Given the segment the car sits in, its mileage is around 12.75 kmpl with a 78-litre tank capacity according to ARAI standards. Surprisingly, the real-world, owner-reported mileage is the same. It dips to 10 kmpl in the city, but registers slightly higher numbers on highways. However, compared to a Ferrari Roma or a Porsche 911 Turbo, which register mileage ratings of 7-8 kmpl, the Aston Martin is arguably the more fuel-efficient choice.

The Aston Martin DB12 has undergone a major transformation over its predecessor to become the British manufacturer’s “Super Tourer”. It offers a commanding presence with its muscular build, lower stance, wider shape, and five different colour options to choose from. ​The car’s front profile is dominated by the signature grille, lined with bold vanes that allow in 56% more air for instant cooling. This new front end is a modern take on the classic 1950s curves, resulting in a bolder look.

As for its other exterior elements, it has a 22 mm wider rear, body-colored side sills, and new LED Matrix headlamps with a unique three-element DRL signature. The Aston Martin DB12’s ground clearance is 120 mm, but despite its low stance, it can handle Indian speedbreakers without needing a nose-lift system.
 

Aston Martin DB12 interior is as bespoke as its exterior. The seats, crafted with hand-stitched leather from Scotland’s Bridge of Weir, elevate the brand’s luxury-oriented engineering decisions.  From 12-way adjustable seating and insulated seats to an ergonomically designed driver’s seat, the car meets most of the automobile industry’s comfort requirements.

The ​DB12 also has a 2+2 seat layout and a 262-litre boot space beneath. It is sufficient for accommodating short-trip luggage. The seats are well-sculpted, ensuring maximum comfort all around, and the black interior with a splash of colour matches the car’s exterior for an eye-catching look.

​The 10.25-inch pure-black infotainment offers HD resolution for an intuitive experience, is ultra-responsive, and boasts wireless charging capabilities. The entire cabin houses a 15-speaker surround sound system from Bowers & Wilkins, delivering automatic sound adjustment based on the cabin’s noise levels.

Safety is paramount in supercars, and the Aston Martin DB12 has them all to follow Indian regulations. It has three primary features to avoid collisions: Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), and Rear Cross-Traffic Assist.

For lane support, features like Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keep Assist Available (LKA) are available. For monitoring, the car has Blind Spot Assist (BSA), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), and Driver Attention Assist. There is also a 360-degree 3D surround camera topping off the car’s active safety and ADAS features.

Regarding passive safety, the Aston Martin DB12 has two standard airbags, an aluminium structure of 7% higher stiffness than its earlier models, and carbon-ceramic brakes with exceptional stopping power. Finally, there is an anti-theft immobiliser and alarm system, along with an E-call system for automatic emergency alerts.

Even though the Aston Martin DB12 is a one-of-a-kind Super GT, it has a few rivals matching its price point.

Ferrari Roma

With a more powerful 620 PS V8 engine, this Ferrari is a no-brainer for speed enthusiasts. But it demands more care and maintenance compared to the Aston Martin DB12.

Bentley Continental GT

The Continental GT is heavier and feels planted on the ground at high speeds. But the Aston Martin DB12 has superior agility and a more engaging, driver-first design.

McLaren GT

The McLaren GT is lightweight and quicker, good for short sprints. But the DB 12 is more suitable for long-distance travelling due to its relatively larger cabin space.

Like every other vehicle, the Aston Martin DB12 has some disadvantages trailing behind its perks.

The Aston Martin DB12 price in India positions the car in a segment that caters to ultra-high-net-worth Indians. But if you want a vehicle that combines heritage with modern appeal, the Aston Martin DB12 is the right pick. It offers convenient long-distance travel with its rear seats, and is an exciting option for families with children due to its excellent safety suite. But potential owners must consider the high costs, depreciation value, and limited cabin tech functionality while settling for one.

If you’re looking for speed or stability, the Ferrari Roma and the Bentley Continental GT are far superior choices, respectively. But if you value exclusivity, an outerworldly cabin experience, style, and performance that puts it on par with other high-end vehicles, the Aston Martin DB12 is a super tourer hard to beat, designed to be more athletic than its predecessors.