The new Aston Martin DB12 boasts fiery V8 power and posh luxury car credentials. However, with the automaker billing the DB12 as a “Super Tourer” rather than a classic grand tourer (GT), the new model might leave a tradition of Aston Martin GT cars in the rearview mirror. So, what makes the DB12 a Super Tourer, and is it as good as the marque’s past greats?

Aston Martin claims the new DB12 is a ‘Super Tourer’ rather than a classic GT car

Aston Martin bills the new DB12 as “the world’s first Super Tourer.” The new label leaves the classic grand tourer segment behind, a category that the British marque once defined. According to the automaker, a Super Tourer incorporates performance DNA like Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S tires.

Beyond the grippy, corner-ready rubber of the Pilot Sport 5 S tires, the automaker opted for noise-canceling polyurethane and brand-specific ‘AML’ codes for a refined and bespoke ride. Moreover, the new Super Tourer has performance-oriented features like a track driving mode, adaptive dampers, an electronic rear differential, and a stiff aluminum chassis. 

Despite the lack of the characteristic V12, the new V8-powered DB12 will hit 202 mph, two more than the outgoing V12 DB11. Better yet, the British marque says the launch-happy DB12 will hit 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, 0.1 seconds quicker than the first DB11s, per Car and Driver. 

What engine is in the new Aston Martin DB12?

The new DB12 goes without a V12; the coupe boasts an AMG-sourced twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 producing 671 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Still, even with fewer cylinders, the twin-turbo mill outmuscles the V12 by 41 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque.

However, even with the performance-oriented handling characteristics and powerful V8 heart, the DB12 is the first DB car in over 20 years to go without a V12 engine option. 

Which cars did the Aston Martin DB12 replace?

The new Aston Martin DB12 replaced the DB11, a revolutionary grand tourer design in its own right. The DB11 offered a V12 and an AMG V8 with Lotus-inspired underpinnings, enough to conquer continents with speed and refinement. 

However, unlike the DB11, the DB12 is an all-new Super Tourer to the outgoing model’s grand tourer. “DB12 is our design definition of a Super Tourer. Historically, the GT code among most contemporary enthusiasts meant some semblance of comfort, speed, and refinement,” said Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer of Aston Martin. “We’ve done it to the max through technology to deliver this new category of performance-design driving experience.”

Is an Aston Martin V12 a supercar?

The outgoing DB11 isn’t a supercar; it’s the last flagship V12-powered grand tourer the marque produced. Moreover, the new Aston Martin DB12 is a Super Tourer, a performance-oriented luxury touring car with supercar qualities. 

What do you think of the new performance touring DB model? Tell us in the comments below!