Following on from the love affair we had at Luxury Lifestyle Magazine HQ with the DB10 (Bond’s latest Aston in the SPECTRE movie) we have been highly anticipating what was to follow and thankfully the wait is over. Introducing the DB11 – starting a new chapter in Aston Martin’s history, the DB11 is the first product launched under the company’s ‘Second Century’ plan. DB11 is the bold new figurehead of the illustrious ‘DB’ bloodline and an authentic, dynamic sporting GT in the finest Aston Martin tradition.
Showcasing a fresh and distinctive design language, pioneering aerodynamics and a hearty power thanks to a potent new in-house designed 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, the DB11 is the most powerful, most efficient and most dynamically gifted DB model in Aston Martin’s history.
“We aspire to make the most beautiful cars in the world. DB11 is the absolute embodiment of what an Aston Martin should be and we have worked tirelessly to ensure that DB11 combines both exceptional design with the latest technology throughout. A brand new bonded aluminium platform, clever aerodynamics, a new characterful twin-turbo V12 and class-leading infotainment systems are just a few aspects which make this the sports car that will proudly spearhead Aston Martin’s second century plan.” – Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Andy Palmer.
The DB11 re-imagines the relationship between form and function with a series of fresh design signatures including a front-hinging clamshell bonnet, distinctive LED headlights and accentuated lines of the iconic Aston Martin grille. The clean lines continue at the rear, with a sloping decklid that smoothly blends into boldly sculpted tail-lights to create a new and unmistakable graphic.
Innovative aerodynamics play their part in this aesthetic revolution with clever management of airflow both over and through the bodywork aiding stability while preserving the DB11’s uncluttered surfaces. Front-end lift is reduced by the gill-like Curlicue which releases high-pressure air from inside the wheel arch via a concealed vent within the redesigned side-strake. Meanwhile, rear-end lift is reduced by the Aston Martin AeroBladeTM; a virtual spoiler fed by discreet air intakes located at the base of each C-pillar. Air is ducted through the bodywork, before venting as a jet of air from the aperture in the rear decklid. The intricacies of the design can be seen in the teaser video provided by Aston Martin below.
Like every Aston Martin, the heart of the DB11 is found beneath the bonnet, though unlike any Aston Martin before it, the DB11’s heart is a 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12. Designed in-house this new engine develops 608PS1 (600BHP1) and 700Nm1 of torque, making DB11 the most powerful production DB model ever (top speed of 200mph1 and a 0-62mph time of just 3.9sec).
To harness the immense performance created by the twin-turbo V12 engine the DB11’s chassis, suspension, steering and electronics have been re-imagined and key new technologies embraced. With multiple driver-selectable dynamic modes – GT, Sport and Sport Plus, 8-speed automatic ZF transmission, new electric power steering and Torque Vectoring by braking result in a driving experience that combines exemplary ride comfort and true sports car agility.
Technological advances also impress thanks to the technical partner, Daimler AG. A new full-colour 12″ TFT LCD display in an-all instrument cluster alongside an additional 8″ screen dedicated purely to infotainment creates an exemplary infotainment system that really helps to set this model apart from the rest. In addition a newly implemented auto-park assist feature and 360-degree birds-eye view camera helps provide safe maneuvering at slow speeds and is also operated via the car’s infotainment system.
Personalisation comes thanks to an inspiring palette of colours and a vast array of detailing options, iyour choices are virtually limitless. Nexus quilting and Celestial perforation add layers of beautiful complexity and intrigue, while ornate leatherwork, such as intricate brogue detailing, creates areas of visual and tactile delight.
Recommended Retail Price from £154,900 in the UK with first deliveries of the DB11 car are scheduled to begin during the fourth quarter of 2016.
