Aston Martin DB11 unveiled 01 | 03 | 2016
ASTON MARTIN HAS revealed what it calls its "most powerful, efficient and dynamically gifted DB model” in the firm’s 103-year history': the new DB11 (See more photographs of the new Aston Martin DB11).
Powered by a new 600bhp twin-turbo V12, the DB9 replacement — which features a new engine and body structure, fresh styling and improved packaging — hits 62mph from standstill in 3.9secs, hits 200mph and costs from £159,900.
The new twin-turbocharged 5204cc V12 is the most powerful unit yet fitted to a DB road car, and sends its power to the DB11’s rear axle via a ZF eight-speed paddle-shift torque-converter automatic gearbox.
The DB11 also gets a mechanical limited-slip differential with active torque vectoring, the latter a being first for Aston Martin. The company has yet to release official figures, but it's expected the new model will return around 24mpg and emit 270g/km CO2.
One of the key features which boosts the reduction on CO2 levels is stop-start and intelligent bank activation, which shuts down six cylinders during periods of light throttle usage.
At 4739mm long, 2060mm wide and 1279mm tall, the DB11 is longer, wider and lower than the DB9; plus it sits on a wheelbase which has also been increased by 65mm.
That, allied to an increase in both the front and rear track widths — up by 75mm and 43mm respectively — means there's not only more interior space, but crucially Aston has been able to mount the V12 further back in the chassis to improve weight distribution to 51% front and 49% rear.
The larger in size also means there's a 54mm increase head room and an 87mm gain in leg room for rear passengers. Luggage space has also improved: the DB11's 270-litre boot is a 20% increase in capacity over that of the DB9.
The driver can now select from three dynamic modes — GT, Sport and Sport Plus — by pushing a steering wheel-mounted button. Each setting progressively intensifies the responses of the engine, transmission, electric power steering and torque vectoring by braking system. There's also a separate button to increase the firmness of the Bilstein adaptive dampers. In 'standard' form, the DB11 runs on 20in alloys shod with Bridgestone tyres which have a bespoke tread pattern, construction and compound.
What's instantly noticeable is the DB11 has an entirely new look. Created by Aston Martin’s design team, led by chief creative officer Marek Reichman, the DB11 proudly displays a bigger, bolder interpretation of Aston’s iconic grille. There's also a pressed aluminium, forward-hinging clamshell bonnet.
There's also arrant of new features for the DB11, including parking control with parallel and bay park assistance, an electrically powered steering column with an ‘up and away’ function for easier ingress and egress, a 360deg bird’s-eye camera and keyless entry/ keyless start.
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Jim McGill