The Aston Martin DB12 V8: Re-Casting the Grand Tourer

The DB12 V8 replaces the DB11 as Aston Martin's flagship front-engine GT, and the manufacturer bills it as the "world's first Super Tourer" — a 671-horsepower claim backed by a re-engineered chassis and a long-overdue in-house infotainment system. It competes directly against the Bentley Continental GT and the Ferrari Roma, both of which out-luxury or out-style it in different ways. The DB12's bet is balance: genuine canyon-carver pace with everyday ride comfort, and an entry price that undercuts both direct rivals once comparable options are added. Specification and pricing details below draw from Aston Martin's official US model pages (https://www.astonmartin.com/en-us/models/db12) and the model brochure (https://www.astonmartin.com/en/models/brochures/db12-brochure).

Why Consider the Aston Martin DB12 V8

The DB12 V8's main argument is pairing grand-touring comfort with real performance hardware. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 makes 671 hp and 590 lb-ft in US trim, hitting 60 mph in 3.5 seconds with a 202 mph top speed — close to the pricier Ferrari Roma. Unlike the Roma's sharper tuning or the softer Bentley Continental GT, the DB12 splits the difference between the two.

Independent reviews generally praise the chassis balance and the new in-house infotainment, while noting the cabin space and low-speed ride trail the Continental GT.

• 590 lb-ft of torque from 2,750 rpm gives effortless highway pace
• Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers and an electronic rear differential sharpen handling versus the Bentley Continental GT
• First in-house infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Optional carbon ceramic brakes with 410 mm front discs cut 27 kg of unsprung mass

Aston Martin DB12 V8 Specifications and Powertrains

Gasoline — 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8: The only engine offered in the US is a hand-built, all-aluminum 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 rated at 671 hp at 6,000 rpm and 590 lb-ft from 2,750 rpm. It drives through a rear-mounted ZF eight-speed automatic and an electronic rear differential. Five drive modes (GT, Sport, Sport+, Wet, Individual) adjust throttle response, damper stiffness and stability control, per the manufacturer (https://www.astonmartin.com/en-us/models/db12).

Efficiency and emissions: Aston Martin's official combined consumption on European test cycles is 23.2 mpg (12.2 L/100km) with CO2 output of 278 g/km. Real-world US results are typically lower, especially in city driving, for a heavy twin-turbo V8. Brakes are steel as standard, with optional carbon ceramic discs (410 mm front) saving 27 kg of unsprung weight.

The Payment Reality of the DB12 V8

US pricing starts from roughly $248,000 MSRP, with popular options quickly pushing transactions past $270,000. That base figure determines the monthly number at any interest rate or term. Because the DB12 is a low-volume model, depreciation and residual value are heavily spec-sensitive: well-chosen colors, carbon brakes and other desirable options hold value, while base or oddly specced cars lose more. On a lease, the residual defined by the lender matters most; on a financed purchase, the rate and term decide the monthly commitment. Run your own scenarios with the payment calculator to see the real numbers.

Warranty and Maintenance for the DB12 V8

Aston Martin's US warranty covers the DB12 for three years with unlimited mileage on bumper-to-bumper coverage, matching the typical luxury-GT standard set by Bentley. Scheduled service is recommended annually or around every 10,000 miles, with oil and filter changes as the regular item. Parts and dealer support are concentrated in major metro areas; for owners outside those, specialized independent Aston Martin shops offer lower labor rates, though warranty work must go through an authorized dealer.

Who the Aston Martin DB12 V8 Suits

The DB12 fits buyers who want a genuine grand tourer they can drive daily, take on long highway trips, and still expect supercar acceleration at the press of a button. It suits those who value a modern infotainment experience and don't need the last word in track dynamics or rear-seat space. Buyers who prioritize maximum track agility should look at the Porsche 911 Turbo; those wanting opulent comfort and a plusher ride should consider the Bentley Continental GT; and the Ferrari Roma appeals to drivers drawn to a sharper, more eventful character at a higher entry price.