Aston Martin has a new flagship in the DB range
Earlier this week, Aston Martin revealed the 2026 DB12 S with “class-leading” performance figures, further separating its so-called “Super Tourer” from the rest of the competition. Along with more power, a louder exhaust, less weight, and quicker acceleration times, the DB12 S also promises improved agility and better braking. Let’s take a closer look.
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Under the hood of the DB12 S remains a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, but while the regular DB12 produces 671 horsepower, the DB12 S makes 690 hp at 6,000 rpm. Both cars are restricted to 590 lb-ft of torque, but Aston Martin has improved throttle pedal calibration for the S.
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The 0-60 mph sprint has been cut by a tenth, now at 3.4 seconds, thanks to a recalibrated launch control system with 50% quicker shift times. The DB12 S should sound better as it accelerates, too, with a new stainless steel exhaust system as standard and a titanium system optional. The latter increases sound levels by 1.5 dB while also reducing weight by almost 26 lbs.
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Along with new throttle settings, the Bilstein DTX dampers have seen software revisions to improve roll and pitch control. There’s also a stiffer rear anti-roll bar and new settings for the camber, toe, and castor geometry, which Gaydon’s engineers say improve front-end feel and overall agility.
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There have also been changes to the steering calibration and the electronic rear differential, which, along with updates to the braking control systems, promise to tighten the car’s line throughout a corner, maintaining stability under trail braking. Speaking of braking, carbon-ceramic brakes (410 millimeters in front, 360 mm at the rear) are now standard fitment. These cut some 59.5 lbs of unsprung weight.
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A new splitter gives the DB12 S a wider and lower look, but it’s also functional, generating downforce and reducing lift on the front axle.
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Another front-end cosmetic change is found in the hood, where the regular DB12’s mesh vents have been replaced with gloss black or optional 2×2 twill carbon fiber louvers for a more aggressive look.
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To help the DB12 S stand further apart, the sills now have gloss black extensions, and the fenders get red S badges, framed in either bright or dark chrome.
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A new fixed rear spoiler adds more aggression and improves high-speed stability, but it’s not the only change to the rear end.
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A near rear diffuser in a wider rear bumper is said to reduce lift, and it houses stacked tailpipes on either side (the regular DB12 has just one exhaust outlet per side).
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Changes inside are mostly subtle, but one that catches the eye is the red anodized finish of the knurled metal drive mode controller. The crimson color can also be found in the seatbelts, contrast stitching, and headrest embroidery, though evidently not on the car Aston Martin chose to shoot for these images.
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A trio of Alcantara and leather options is available for trimming the interior, as is a heated Alcantara steering wheel, and the headrests can have the Aston Martin wings applied with an industry-first technique that uses both embossing and debossing.
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The DB12 S is available to order in both Coupe and Volante (convertible) forms, with deliveries beginning early in 2026.
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