The Aston Martin DB12 stands as a pinnacle of British automotive craftsmanship, unveiled in May 2023 at the Cannes Film Festival as the worthy successor to the DB11. Marketed as the world’s first Super Tourer, this grand touring masterpiece redefines the segment by blending breathtaking performance with unparalleled luxury. Aston Martin, a brand synonymous with elegance and power, has poured decades of heritage into the DB12, making it a statement of style, sophistication, and cutting-edge technology. Launched in India on September 29, 2023, the DB12 caters to enthusiasts who crave a thrilling drive without sacrificing comfort, positioning it as a standout in the ultra-luxury sports car market.
This car marks a new era for Aston Martin under the leadership of Lawrence Stroll, with significant input from former Ferrari executives Amadeo Felisa (CEO) and Roberto Fedeli (CTO). The DB12 is not just an evolution of its predecessor but a bold leap forward, featuring a redesigned exterior, a revamped interior, and a potent 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine sourced from Mercedes-AMG. Available in two stunning variants—the Coupe and the Volante (convertible)—the DB12 promises an exhilarating experience whether you’re carving through mountain roads or cruising city streets. With its sleek lines, advanced suspension, and a driver-centric cabin, it’s a vehicle that commands attention and delivers on every front.
In this detailed exploration, we’ll dive into the technical specifications, available variants, pricing across India’s metro cities, and an in-depth look at what makes the DB12 a class apart. We’ll also compare it to its closest rivals, offering a comprehensive view of where it stands in the competitive luxury sports car landscape.
Technical Specifications of the Aston Martin DB12
The Aston Martin DB12 is engineered to impress, boasting a combination of power, precision, and luxury. Below is a tabular representation of its technical specifications, compiled from CarDekho, ZigWheels, CarWale, and Aston Martin’s official data, ensuring accuracy as of March 2025.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 4.0-litre Twin-Turbo V8 (Mercedes-AMG sourced) |
| Displacement | 3982 cc |
| Max Power | 670.69 bhp @ 6000 rpm (680 PS) |
| Max Torque | 800 Nm @ 2750-6000 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) |
| Acceleration (0-100 kmph) | 3.6 seconds (Coupe), 3.7 seconds (Volante) |
| Top Speed | 325 kmph (202 mph) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 12.75 kmpl (user-reported average) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 litres |
| Length | 4725 mm |
| Width | 2135 mm (CarDekho) / 2145 mm (CarWale) |
| Height | 1295 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2805 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 120 mm |
| Boot Space | 262 litres |
| Kerb Weight | 1688 kg (Coupe), approx. 1790 kg (Volante) |
| Seating Capacity | 2+2 (4 seats, rear seats limited) |
| Suspension (Front) | Independent Double Wishbone, Adaptive Dampers |
| Suspension (Rear) | Multi-Link, Adaptive Dampers |
| Brakes (Front & Rear) | Ventilated Discs |
| Tyre Size | 21-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2 |
| Drive Modes | GT, Sport, Sport+ |
These specifications highlight the DB12’s focus on performance and agility, with its V8 engine delivering a colossal 680 PS and a torque-rich 800 Nm, propelling it from 0-100 kmph in just 3.6 seconds for the Coupe. The Volante, despite its convertible design, is only marginally slower at 3.7 seconds, retaining the same top speed of 325 kmph.
Variants of the Aston Martin DB12
The Aston Martin DB12 is offered in two distinct variants, each tailored to different driving preferences. Below is a table summarizing the variants, based on data from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale.
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| DB12 Coupe | The base model, a fixed-roof grand tourer with a focus on rigidity and sportiness. |
| DB12 Volante | The convertible version, featuring an 8-layer fabric roof that opens in 14 seconds and closes in 16 seconds, operable up to 50 kmph. |
Both variants share the same powertrain and core features, but the Volante adds the allure of open-top motoring, with a slight trade-off in torsional rigidity (improved by 5% over the DB11 Volante) and added weight due to its roof mechanism.
Price of the Aston Martin DB12 in Metro Cities
The Aston Martin DB12 commands a premium price, reflecting its status as a luxury Super Tourer. Prices vary across India’s metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and taxes. Below is a table of on-road prices (ex-showroom + RTO + insurance), sourced from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, accurate as of March 2025.
| City | DB12 Coupe On-Road Price (INR) | DB12 Volante On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹ 5.27 Crore | ₹ 5.56 Crore |
| Mumbai | ₹ 5.35 Crore | ₹ 5.64 Crore |
| Bangalore | ₹ 5.30 Crore | ₹ 5.59 Crore |
| Chennai | ₹ 5.28 Crore | ₹ 5.57 Crore |
| Kolkata | ₹ 5.26 Crore | ₹ 5.55 Crore |
Note: The ex-showroom price starts at ₹ 4.59 Crore for the Coupe and ₹ 4.89 Crore for the Volante. On-road prices include RTO (approx. ₹ 45-57 Lakh), insurance (approx. ₹ 17-18 Lakh), and TCS (₹ 4.59-4.89 Lakh). Prices are subject to change based on customization and dealership offers.
About the Aston Martin DB12
Design and Styling
The Aston Martin DB12 is a visual masterpiece, blending aggression with elegance in a way only Aston Martin can. Its exterior features a larger front grille—flanked by sleek LED headlights—that enhances both aesthetics and cooling. The wider track width and 21-inch alloy wheels give it a planted, muscular stance, while flush-fitting door handles add a touch of modernity. The DB12’s lines are sharper than the DB11’s, with a redesigned rear that echoes the DBS, making it instantly distinguishable. Available in 48 stunning colours—like Iridescent Emerald, Satin Onyx Black, and Plasma Blue—the DB12 offers unparalleled personalization.
The Volante variant takes this design a step further with its eight-layer fabric roof, which not only looks exquisite but also maintains structural integrity. The roof’s operation is seamless, opening in 14 seconds and closing in 16, even at speeds up to 50 kmph, making it perfect for spontaneous open-air drives. Whether in Coupe or Volante form, the DB12’s design is a harmonious expression of power and prestige, worthy of its Super Tourer title.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the DB12 houses a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, a hand-built masterpiece tuned by Aston Martin to produce 680 PS and 800 Nm of torque. This represents a significant upgrade over the DB11’s V8, thanks to optimized compression, larger turbochargers, and improved cooling. Gone is the V12 option from its predecessor, but the V8’s performance more than compensates, delivering a 0-100 kmph sprint in 3.6 seconds (Coupe) and a top speed of 325 kmph. The Volante follows closely at 3.7 seconds, proving that the convertible design doesn’t compromise its sporty soul.
Power is channeled through an 8-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels, aided by a torque-vectoring electronic rear differential—a first for Aston’s DB lineage. This, combined with a rigid-mounted electromechanical steering system, ensures precise handling and enhanced feedback, making the DB12 a joy to drive on twisty roads. The all-new suspension system, featuring intelligent adaptive dampers, firmer springs, and anti-roll bars, boosts torsional rigidity by 7% over the DB11, while shedding 85 kg compared to the launch-spec DB11 V12. Three drive modes—GT, Sport, and Sport+—allow drivers to tailor the experience, from relaxed cruising to adrenaline-pumping performance.
Interior and Technology
Step inside the DB12, and you’re greeted by a driver-centric cabin that balances luxury with technology. The interior is a sensory haven, adorned with hand-stitched leather, wood, and metal finishes that exude timeless craftsmanship. The seats, available in three styles, offer supreme comfort for the front occupants, though the rear 2+2 configuration is more suited to extra storage than passengers due to limited legroom. The boot space of 262 litres is adequate for weekend getaways, aligning with its grand touring ethos.
A major highlight is the DB12’s next-gen infotainment system, Aston Martin’s first in-house design, replacing the outdated Mercedes-derived unit of the DB11. A 10.25-inch touchscreen anchors the system, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with over-the-air updates ensuring future-proofing. While the interface has minor flaws—small icons and occasional glitches—it’s a significant leap forward. A 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster sits ahead of the driver, complemented by tactile analogue switchgear that preserves Aston’s heritage. Audio options include an 11-speaker system as standard or an optional 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup for immersive sound.
Safety features are robust, with 10 airbags, ABS, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera, ensuring peace of mind on every journey. The DB12’s interior isn’t just a cabin—it’s a statement of ultra-luxury refinement.
Driving Experience
The Aston Martin DB12 excels as a Super Tourer, offering a driving experience that blends exhilaration with comfort. On the road, the V8’s roar is intoxicating, especially in Sport+ mode, where throttle response sharpens and the exhaust note deepens. The chassis, reworked for sportiness, delivers precise steering and tremendous traction, thanks to wide rear tyres and advanced software controls. Reviewers from CarandDriver and Autocar praise its balanced handling, noting its ability to tackle twisty mountain roads with athleticism unexpected from a 2+2 grand tourer.
Yet, the DB12 doesn’t sacrifice comfort. In GT mode, the adaptive dampers smooth out imperfections, making it an ideal companion for long highway drives. The Volante’s stiff ride quality leans toward sportiness, but its open-top charm amplifies the sensory experience, letting you hear the V8’s symphony unfiltered. Fuel economy, at 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway (EPA ratings), reflects its performance focus, though real-world mileage in India averages around 12.75 kmpl, per user reports on CarDekho.
Close Competitors
The Aston Martin DB12 competes in a fiercely contested segment of luxury sports cars. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
Ferrari Roma
The Ferrari Roma is a direct competitor, priced at ₹ 3.76 Crore (ex-showroom) in India. Powered by a 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 611 bhp and 760 Nm, it accelerates from 0-100 kmph in 3.4 seconds—slightly quicker than the DB12. Its sleek, understated design rivals the DB12’s elegance, but it lacks the Super Tourer versatility, leaning more toward pure sportiness. The Roma’s interior is tech-heavy but less opulent than the DB12’s hand-crafted cabin. While the Ferrari offers sharper dynamics, the Aston edges out in comfort and refinement.
Bentley Continental GT
The Bentley Continental GT, starting at ₹ 5.22 Crore, targets a similar audience with its 4.0-litre V8 (542 bhp, 770 Nm) or optional 6.0-litre W12. It’s heavier and less agile than the DB12, with a 0-100 kmph time of 4 seconds (V8 model). The Bentley excels in luxury and rear-seat comfort, making it a true grand tourer, but it can’t match the DB12’s sporty edge or top speed (325 kmph vs. 318 kmph). The DB12’s lighter chassis and modern tech give it an advantage for driving enthusiasts.
Porsche 911 Turbo S
The Porsche 911 Turbo S (₹ 3.35 Crore) is a performance benchmark, with its 3.8-litre twin-turbo flat-six delivering 641 bhp and a blistering 0-100 kmph time of 2.7 seconds. Its all-wheel-drive system and razor-sharp handling outpace the DB12 in raw dynamics, but it lacks the grand touring comfort and luxury of the Aston. The 911’s minimalist interior contrasts with the DB12’s lavish cabin, making the Aston a better choice for those prioritizing style over outright speed.
McLaren GT
The McLaren GT (₹ 3.72 Crore) offers a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with 611 bhp, hitting 0-100 kmph in 3.2 seconds. It’s lighter and more track-focused than the DB12, with a carbon-fibre chassis, but its interior feels sparse compared to the Aston’s opulence. The McLaren prioritizes performance over long-distance comfort, giving the DB12 an edge as a Super Tourer.
Final Thoughts!
The Aston Martin DB12 is a triumph of engineering and design, redefining the grand touring segment as a Super Tourer. With its potent V8 engine, stunning aesthetics, and luxurious interior, it offers a rare blend of performance and comfort that few rivals can match. Priced between ₹ 5.26-5.64 Crore on-road in India’s metro cities, it’s an investment in automotive excellence, appealing to those who demand the best of both worlds. Against competitors like the Ferrari Roma, Bentley Continental GT, Porsche 911 Turbo S, and McLaren GT, the DB12 carves its own niche, balancing sportiness with refinement in a way that’s quintessentially Aston Martin. Whether you opt for the Coupe or the Volante, the DB12 is more than a car—it’s an experience, a legacy, and a statement of unparalleled sophistication.
