QUINTESSENTIAL GRAND TOURER

The successor to the svelte DB11, the DB12 is also the first model in the Aston Martin line-up to feature the British marque's new logo

In its 110th year of existence, not only is Aston Martin creating a stir on the Formula One circuit, but the brand broadly acknowledged as the creator of some of the world's most desirable cars is marking the 75th anniversary of its famed DB badge with what it describes as "a statement car." The new DB12 builds on the success of its predecessor, the DB11, incorporating that car's sleek stance, low-slung, seat-ofthe-pants driving experience and luxurious interior. The new model, however, offers a greater focus on technology and interior design than the car it replaces.

IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK...

While the car's model designation might suggest the presence of the brand's traditional range-topping twelve-cylinder engine, Aston Martin has once again relied on its relationship with Mercedes-Benz to power the DB12's performance.

Therefore, its AMG-sourced 4,0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 motor has been tweaked to offer 500 kW with 800 N.m of torque, which is sent to the rear wheels via a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission and an electronic rear differential. Aston Martin claims a 0-100 km/h sprint in 3,5 seconds and a top-end speed of 325 km/h, impressive for a luxury GT.