Aston Martin DB12 S
The third “S” model in the current lineup
Aston Martin is reviving the traditional “S” designation, with the DB12 S being introduced as the third model, following the DBX S and Vantage S.
Aston Martin has debuted the DB12 S, following on from the DBX S and Vantage S. This latest model continues Aston Martin’s tradition of adding an “S” to the end of high-performance models.
The “S” tradition dates back to the DB3S, a road-legal racing car that debuted in 1953. In recent years, the first and second generations of the Vanquish S, released in 2004 and 2016, the V8 and V12 Vantage S in 2011 and 2013, and the four-seater Rapide S, introduced in 2013, have all received acclaim. Simon Newton, Aston Martin’s Director of Vehicle Performance, commented on the DB12 S:
“Technology introduced with the DB12 has enabled us to broaden the range of vehicle character and performance enhancements available on this platform, and the DB12 S introduces a number of subtle changes that significantly improve vehicle performance and enhance driver engagement.”
“By giving the DB12 S greater dynamic capability and performance range, we believe we’ve taken the Super Tourer spirit to a new level.”
4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine producing 700 PS
At the heart of the car is a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine that delivers 20 PS more power than the base model.
The heart of the DB12 S is a dedicated power unit that is an evolution of the DB12’s 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo. It has an output of 20 PS more than the base model, producing a maximum output of 700 PS and a maximum torque of 800 Nm. It boasts a top speed of 325 km/h and 0-60 mph acceleration of 3.4 seconds.
The exhaust system is newly developed. The new quad tailpipes have been replaced with a stainless steel sports exhaust system, tuned to accentuate engine frequencies throughout the rev range. An optional titanium exhaust system amplifies the sound, updating low, mid and high frequency sound levels. It is also 11.7 kg lighter than the stainless steel system.
Following the powertrain calibration changes, launch control has also been optimised, reducing shift times by more than 50%. The throttle pedal has also been recalibrated, and a dedicated drive-by-wire throttle map provides a more direct pedal feel.
Equipped with carbon ceramic brakes
In addition to updates to the chassis and control system, carbon ceramic brakes (CCB) will be standard equipment.
Extensive chassis reinforcement has significantly improved the car’s agility, connection and precision, as well as drive feel and stability. Bilstein DTX damper software has been revised to improve roll and pitch control. The rear anti-roll bar has been stiffened, and camber, toe and caster geometry settings have been optimised.
Aston Martin’s chassis engineers have tuned the steering calibration and rear electronic differential (E-Diff) to deliver a more natural feel, further enhancing connection with the car and responsiveness. From corner entry to corner exit, the car allows for earlier and more proactive use of the throttle, achieving the perfect balance between agility and control.
One notable update to the DB12 S is the standard fitment of Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB). With a front diameter of 410mm and a rear diameter of 360mm, the CCBs not only improve braking performance and thermal capacity, but also significantly reduce unsprung weight. This reduces unsprung weight by 27kg compared to steel brakes, which also leads to improved ride comfort, steering feel, and handling.
This time, the car is equipped with a next-generation “Corner Brake Control (CBC)” system that optimizes the coordination between “Integrated Brake Slip Control” and “Integrated Vehicle Control.” The predictive function built into CBC maintains optimal stability when braking when entering a corner.
Exclusive racy exterior
At the front, a special front splitter and special bonnet louvers have been introduced.
The front section of the DB12 S features a special front splitter and bonnet louvres. The splitter improves downforce levels while making the DB12 S appear lower and wider. It also reduces drag by stabilising airflow in and around the front wheel arches.
The bonnet louvres, which come standard in a gloss black finish and are available as an option in a 2×2 twill carbon fibre finish, help to evacuate hot air from the 4.0-litre V8 engine and also tighten up the aggressive front section.
Gloss black sills have been added to the sides, seamlessly merging with the redesigned front splitter to emphasize the low center of gravity. A dedicated “S” badge is placed on the fender just below the side strake. Finished in bright chrome or dark chrome with red glass enamel, the forged, handcrafted “S” badge subtly signals performance.
The rear section is fitted with a fixed rear spoiler that improves aerodynamic levels at high speeds, while the rear diffuser located at the bottom of the bumper suppresses lift while ensuring space for the distinctive pair of vertically aligned tailpipes.
Red anodized dial
The cockpit’s rotary dial for drive modes has been given a special red anodized finish.
The interior also features an “S” badge and a red anodized knurled metal rotary drive mode dial, along with red seatbelts, contrast seat welts, contrast stitching and headrest embroidery.
16-way adjustable Sport Plus electric front seats are standard, with carbon fibre performance seats available as an option. Other attractive options include an Alcantara heated sports steering wheel and Aston Martin Wing headrests, which are an industry first thanks to embossing and debossing, resulting in the highest levels of precision and sculptural depth.
The interior trim can be chosen from three types: “Accelerate Leather & Alcantara Trim,” “Inspire S Semi-Aniline Leather and Alcantara,” and “Inspire S Full Semi-Aniline Leather.” The two Inspire S packages include S Herringbone Quilting with Micro-Perforation and Alcantara headlining. The vehicle price in Japan is 32.9 million yen for the Coupe and 34.9 million yen for the Volante.
*Vehicle price added on October 10, 2025
