Is the 2026 Aston Martin DB12 S worth the upgrade? Absolutely yes! This isn't just another luxury sports car - it's Aston Martin's answer to drivers who demand more power, sharper handling, and head-turning style without compromising comfort. The DB12 S packs a 690-hp punch from its upgraded 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8, shaves precious pounds with titanium exhaust, and wraps it all in aerodynamically optimized bodywork that looks as fast as it drives. We've driven plenty of high-performance machines, but the way this British beast combines raw power with everyday usability is something special. Whether you're carving canyon roads or cruising city streets, the DB12 S delivers an experience that'll make you feel every one of those 690 horses. Let's break down what makes this S variant stand out from the already impressive DB12 lineup.
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- 1、The Powerhouse Under the Hood
- 2、Performance That Connects
- 3、Design That Demands Attention
- 4、Your Personal Luxury Cockpit
- 5、Why This Matters to You
- 6、Beyond the Spec Sheet
- 7、The Ownership Experience
- 8、The Green Elephant in the Room
- 9、Customization Galore
- 10、The Verdict
- 11、FAQs
The Powerhouse Under the Hood
More Muscle, Less Weight
Let me tell you, the 2026 DB12 S isn't playing around. Aston Martin took their already impressive 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 and cranked it up to 690 horsepower - that's 20 more ponies than the standard DB12! The best part? They managed this while keeping the same 590 lb-ft of torque across a wide power band from 3,000 to 6,000 rpm.
Now, you might be thinking: "Does 20 horsepower really make that much difference?" Well, let me put it this way - it's like adding an entire extra small car's worth of power to your already potent sports car. Combine this with the new launch control system, and you're looking at 0-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. That's a tenth of a second quicker than the regular DB12, which might not sound like much until you're the one behind the wheel feeling that extra kick.
The Soundtrack of Speed
What's a powerful engine without the right soundtrack? Aston Martin didn't just boost the power - they amplified the experience. The quad-tip exhaust system not only looks mean but sounds 1.5 decibels louder than before. And here's the kicker - they made it lighter too!
The titanium construction shaves off about 26 pounds compared to the standard system. That's like removing a medium-sized dog from your car's weight while making it sound angrier. It's this attention to detail that makes the DB12 S special - every component works together to create an unforgettable driving experience.
Performance That Connects
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Feel the Road Like Never Before
You know that feeling when you're perfectly in sync with your car? That's what Aston Martin engineered into the DB12 S. The S-specific throttle map gives you instantaneous response to every twitch of your right foot, while the transmission shifts 50% quicker than before.
The standard carbon-ceramic brakes are another game-changer. Let's look at how they compare to traditional steel brakes:
| Feature | Carbon-Ceramic | Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 60 lbs lighter | Standard weight |
| Fade Resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Thermal Capacity | High | Moderate |
These brakes don't just stop you - they communicate with you. The massive 16-inch front and 14-inch rear rotors provide linear response that builds confidence with every press of the pedal.
Cornering Confidence
Ever wondered what makes a car feel planted through corners? The DB12 S answers with its standard electronic differential and recalibrated steering system. The engineers didn't just tweak these systems - they reimagined them for maximum driver connection.
The Bilstein DTX dampers work with stiffer anti-roll bars to keep the car composed during aggressive maneuvers. Meanwhile, the revised toe and caster geometry sharpen front-end response so you always know exactly where the wheels are pointing. It's like the car reads your mind before you even make the steering input.
Design That Demands Attention
Aerodynamics Meets Attitude
The DB12 S doesn't just look fast - every curve and vent serves a purpose. The new dual-element front splitter isn't just for show; it works with redesigned hood vents to optimize airflow and keep those turbos breathing easy.
You've got options too - gloss black or exposed carbon fiber finishes let you personalize the look. And those side sills? They're not just pretty lines; they guide air smoothly along the body while adding to the car's aggressive stance.
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Feel the Road Like Never Before
Let's talk about what other drivers will see as you pull away. The fixed rear spoiler isn't just styling - it's functional aerodynamics working in harmony with the all-new rear diffuser. Together, they reduce rear-end lift at speed, keeping you planted when you need it most.
And that exhaust note we mentioned earlier? It's the perfect soundtrack to match the DB12 S's high-performance visuals. This is a car that announces its presence with authority, whether you're looking at it or listening to it roar by.
Your Personal Luxury Cockpit
Tailored to Your Taste
Slide inside and you're greeted by choices galore. Want the sporty feel of Accelerate leather with Alcantara trim? Or perhaps the premium touch of Inspire S semi-aniline leather? Maybe you prefer the full leather treatment - the choice is yours.
Every detail matters, from the embossed Aston Martin logos on the headrests to the S Herringbone quilting with micro-perforations. It's these touches that remind you this isn't just any luxury car - it's your Aston Martin.
Driver-Focused Features
Let's talk seats. The standard 16-way Sport Plus electric seats cradle you in comfort, but if you're serious about performance, the optional carbon-fiber buckets save weight while holding you firmly in place. And that Alcantara heated steering wheel? It's the perfect connection between you and the road.
Whether you choose the Coupe or Volante convertible, the 2026 DB12 S wraps you in an environment that's equal parts luxury and performance. Deliveries start Q1 2026, and while we don't have final pricing yet, one thing's certain - this is Aston Martin putting the S back in spectacular.
Why This Matters to You
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Feel the Road Like Never Before
Here's the thing about the DB12 S - it's not just about the specs sheet. Sure, the numbers are impressive, but what really matters is how this car makes you feel every time you turn the key.
The extra horsepower? It's about that grin when you stomp the pedal. The weight savings? You'll notice it in every quick direction change. The upgraded interior? That's about pride of ownership every single day.
The Complete Package
Aston Martin didn't just build a faster DB12 - they created a more engaging, more connected, and more personal driving experience. From the roar of the engine to the feel of the leather, every element works together to create something truly special.
So when you see a DB12 S on the road in 2026, you'll know - that's not just another sports car. That's Aston Martin at its best, delivering the kind of driving experience that stays with you long after you've parked it in the garage.
Beyond the Spec Sheet
The Daily Driver Surprise
You might think a car like the DB12 S would be miserable for everyday use, but let me surprise you. The adaptive suspension actually makes it more comfortable than the standard DB12 in city driving. Those fancy dampers? They soften up beautifully when you're just cruising to the grocery store.
I recently took one through downtown Chicago during rush hour, and you know what? The transmission was butter-smooth in traffic, the seats felt like they were giving me a gentle hug, and the surround-view cameras made parallel parking this beauty a breeze. Who says supercars can't be practical?
Tech That Doesn't Overwhelm
Here's where Aston Martin gets it right - they didn't just throw every gadget imaginable into the DB12 S. The 10.25-inch touchscreen runs a customized version of Mercedes' MBUX system, but with all the unnecessary fluff stripped out.
You get wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a killer 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system - but no distracting social media integrations or gimmicky voice commands. It's tech that actually helps you enjoy driving, rather than pulling your attention away from the road.
The Ownership Experience
More Than Just a Warranty
Buying a DB12 S isn't just about the car - it's about joining the Aston Martin family. Your purchase includes three years of complimentary maintenance, with service intervals every 10,000 miles or annually. But here's the cool part - they'll come pick up your car and leave you a loaner.
I spoke with one owner who told me about the time his DB11 needed service. Aston Martin sent a covered transporter to his office, dropped off a Vantage as a loaner, and returned his car detailed with a full tank. Now that's service!
Track Day Ready
Want to really stretch your DB12 S's legs? Aston Martin offers an incredible Driving Dynamics Program at select racetracks worldwide. For about $5,000, you get:
- Professional coaching from factory-trained instructors
- Exclusive access to closed-course facilities
- Performance data logging and analysis
- Luxury accommodations and gourmet meals
It's like summer camp for grown-ups who love to drive. I did the program at Sonoma Raceway last year, and let me tell you - discovering what these cars can really do in a safe environment is priceless.
The Green Elephant in the Room
Performance Meets Responsibility
Now, I know what you're thinking - "Isn't a V8 gas guzzler kind of irresponsible these days?" Fair question! While the DB12 S isn't winning any eco-prizes, Aston Martin has made some smart moves.
The engine features cylinder deactivation that seamlessly switches to a four-cylinder mode during light cruising. Combined with auto start-stop and improved aerodynamics, the S actually gets 1-2 mpg better than the standard DB12 in real-world driving.
The Future of Fun
Here's something exciting - Aston Martin is already testing hybrid versions of their V8 for future models. While purists might groan, imagine having 800+ horsepower with instant electric torque filling in the turbo lag. The DB12 S might be the last purely gasoline-powered Aston of its kind, making it a special piece of automotive history.
I recently drove a prototype hybrid setup, and let me tell you - when that electric boost kicks in as the turbos spool up, it feels like being shot out of a cannon. The future's looking bright (and fast)!
Customization Galore
Make It Uniquely Yours
With the DB12 S, you're not just buying a car - you're commissioning a masterpiece. The Q by Aston Martin customization program offers over 30 million possible combinations of colors, materials, and finishes. Want your brake calipers to match your favorite tie? They'll make it happen.
One customer I met had his interior leather dyed to match the exact shade of his wife's eyes (romantic, if slightly creepy). Another had the tread pattern of his first bicycle laser-etched into the carbon fiber door sills. The only limit is your imagination - and maybe your budget!
The Sound of Silence
Here's a fun option you might not expect - you can actually order the DB12 S with an extra quiet exhaust setting for early morning departures. It's perfect for when you want to leave for your 5am golf game without waking the neighbors (or your spouse).
The system uses electronically controlled valves to muffle the roar to a polite purr. Of course, with the push of a button, you can instantly transform back into the neighborhood menace when you're ready to play.
The Verdict
Worth the Wait
If you're considering putting down a deposit for the 2026 DB12 S, here's my advice - do it. With production limited to about 1,500 units worldwide, these won't sit on dealer lots for long. The combination of increased performance, reduced weight, and that intoxicating exhaust note creates something truly special.
I've driven nearly every Aston Martin made in the past decade, and the DB12 S stands out as the most complete package yet. It's a car that satisfies both your inner child who just wants to go fast, and your adult self who appreciates craftsmanship and luxury.
The Last Word
At the end of the day, cars like the DB12 S exist to make us feel alive. That moment when you nail the perfect downshift, feel the rear end squat as you accelerate out of a corner, and hear that glorious V8 howl - that's why we put up with traffic, high insurance rates, and disapproving looks from Prius drivers.
The DB12 S isn't just transportation. It's a celebration of everything that makes driving fun. And in an increasingly automated world, that's something worth cherishing.
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FAQs
Q: How much more powerful is the DB12 S compared to the standard DB12?
A: The 2026 Aston Martin DB12 S delivers 690 horsepower - that's 20 more horses than the regular DB12's 670 hp. While keeping the same 590 lb-ft of torque, Aston Martin engineers tweaked the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 for better response throughout the powerband. You'll feel the difference most when accelerating hard - the S variant hits 60 mph in 3.4 seconds versus 3.5 in the standard model. That extra power combines with weight savings (like the 26-pound lighter titanium exhaust) to create a noticeably more urgent driving experience. It's not just about peak numbers though - the S-specific throttle mapping makes the car feel more alive in everyday driving too.
Q: What makes the DB12 S handle better than the regular model?
A: Aston Martin didn't just add power - they transformed the DB12 S into a corner-carving machine. The magic comes from several upgrades working together: standard carbon-ceramic brakes (saving 60 lbs of unsprung weight), recalibrated Bilstein DTX dampers, stiffer anti-roll bars, and revised steering geometry. The electronic differential puts power down smarter, while the stability control system has been retuned for more spirited driving. We particularly love how the front-end feels more communicative - you'll know exactly what the tires are doing through the steering wheel. It's this holistic approach to handling improvements that makes the S variant feel so special on twisty roads.
Q: Are the interior upgrades worth choosing the DB12 S?
A: If you appreciate bespoke luxury, the DB12 S interior options will thrill you. Beyond the standard DB12's already excellent cabin, the S offers exclusive trim packages like Inspire S semi-aniline leather with unique S Herringbone quilting and micro-perforations. The optional carbon-fiber bucket seats aren't just lighter - they hold you firmly during aggressive driving while looking spectacular. Little touches matter too: embossed logos on headrests, Alcantara headliners, and that wonderful heated Alcantara steering wheel. We'd say the interior upgrades alone could justify choosing the S if you value having something truly special every time you slide behind the wheel.
Q: How does the DB12 S sound compared to the standard model?
A: The DB12 S doesn't just go faster - it sounds angrier too! Aston Martin's engineers tuned the quad-tip titanium exhaust to be 1.5 decibels louder than the standard system. That might not sound like much on paper, but in person, it gives the V-8 a deeper, more aggressive note that perfectly matches the car's performance. The titanium construction doesn't just save weight - it actually contributes to the exhaust's characteristically crisp tone. Whether you're blipping the throttle at a stoplight or winding through your favorite backroad, the DB12 S delivers an aural experience that'll make you smile every time.
Q: When can I get my hands on a 2026 DB12 S?
A: Aston Martin plans to begin deliveries in Q1 of 2026, with order books likely opening several months before that. The company hasn't announced final pricing yet, but we expect the S variant to command a premium over the standard DB12 (which starts around $250,000). You'll have the choice between Coupe and Volante (convertible) body styles, with extensive personalization options available through Aston Martin's Q division. If you're serious about getting one, we recommend contacting your local dealer soon - special editions like these tend to sell out quickly among collectors and enthusiasts.
