Undoubtedly, it’s the most significant Aston since the introduction of the DB9
Aston Martin has finally unveiled the all-new DB11 at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. As the carmaker’s CEO Andy Palmer put it, “DB11 is the absolute embodiment of what an Aston Martin should be, and we have worked tirelessly to ensure that DB11 combines both exceptional design with the latest technology throughout.”
Under its long, sculptured bonnet hides an in-house developed twin-turbocharged 5.2-liter V12. Due to progressively restrictive emissions regulations, it's highly unlikely to see a naturally aspirated Aston again.
The brand-new, all-aluminum V12 unit packs 600 hp (608 PS) and 516 lb-ft (799 Nm) of torque that's delivered to the rear axle through an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox. Unsurprisingly (considering the power figures), the DB11 will reach 62 mph from a standstill in 3.9 seconds, and a 200 mph top speed.
Fuel consumption figures haven’t been released yet, but the new engine also has efficiency perks such as cylinder deactivation and stop-start technology.
The front of the DB11’s 1,770-kg body leans on a front independent double wishbone suspension with anti-roll bar and adaptive dampers, while the rear axle features a multi-link setup with coil springs, anti-roll bar, and adaptive dampers as well. Stopping power is provided by huge 400 mm/360 mm front/rear ventilated discs, hidden behind the 20-inch wheels covered in Bridgestone rubber.
As for the DB11’s lines, they could hardly have been better. The new Aston grand tourer manages to encapsulate the brand’s acknowledged design cues in a modern package.
The cabin is also considerably more modern than any other that ever emerged from Gaydon. Well, it’s not ALL NEW: some interior parts (see: switchgear, infotainment rotary controller) are from Daimler AG. But that doesn’t dilute Aston’s typical interior layout in any way.
As expected from a £154,900 Aston Martin, the grand tourer basic package is generous. It includes cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats that are also heated, a 400-Watt audio system, sat-nav, Bluetooth connectivity, and an impressive mix of fine materials.