The automotive world witnessed a seismic shift recently with the unveiling of Aston Martin’s latest creation. British luxury carmaker Aston Martin has finally pulled the covers off their most powerful SUV ever made. The long-awaited DBX S emerges as not just another luxury SUV, but a genuine super-SUV that challenges everything we thought possible in this segment.
Many skeptics questioned whether Aston Martin could truly deliver a high-riding vehicle worthy of their storied badge. Those doubts have been emphatically silenced now. The DBX S represents a bold new chapter for a brand traditionally associated with sleek GT cars and nimble sports coupes.
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The Heart of the Beast: Unprecedented Power
What truly sets the DBX S apart starts under its sculpted bonnet. Aston Martin engineers weren’t content with simply tweaking the standard DBX formula. They reimagined it completely.
The DBX S roars to life with an enhanced 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing a staggering 807 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. These aren’t merely impressive numbers on paper – they transform how this vehicle moves through the world.
Acceleration from standstill to 60 mph takes a mere 3.2 seconds, territory previously reserved for dedicated supercars. The relentless surge of power continues all the way to its top speed of 193 mph, making it one of the fastest production SUVs ever created.
“We wanted to create something that defied conventional categories,” explains Aston Martin’s Chief Technical Officer. “The DBX S isn’t just quick for an SUV – it’s simply quick, full stop.”
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Engineering Excellence: Beyond Raw Power
Raw horsepower tells only part of the story. The DBX S features a completely reworked suspension system that somehow manages to combine seemingly contradictory characteristics.
The adaptive air suspension has been calibrated specifically for this model, offering remarkable body control during aggressive driving. Yet somehow it retains the ability to glide over rough surfaces when comfort is desired.
Massive carbon-ceramic brakes measuring 16.5 inches up front provide stopping power that matches the vehicle’s formidable acceleration. These brakes not only perform brilliantly but also reduce unsprung weight by nearly 40 pounds compared to conventional steel units.
Engineers spent thousands of hours fine-tuning the Dynamic Torque Vectoring system. This sophisticated technology can instantly distribute power between individual wheels to maximize traction and stability in any driving scenario.
Design That Commands Attention
One glance at the DBX S confirms its position at the pinnacle of Aston Martin’s lineup. Its presence manages to be both intimidating and elegant simultaneously – no small feat for a vehicle of this size.
The front fascia features a significantly enlarged grille opening, necessary to feed air to the uprated powertrain. Aggressive side skirts visually lower the vehicle’s center of gravity, while the carbon fiber rear diffuser houses quad exhaust outlets that emit a spine-tingling soundtrack.
“Every line and surface serves a purpose,” notes Aston Martin’s Design Director. “We’ve added visual muscle where the engineering demanded it, creating a harmonious relationship between form and function.”
Aerodynamic Wizardry
Wind tunnel testing played a crucial role in the DBX S development. The active rear spoiler automatically adjusts its position based on speed and driving mode, increasing downforce during high-speed cornering.
Specially designed underbody panels create a venturi effect that literally sucks the vehicle closer to the road at speed. This invisibly improves stability without compromising the clean lines that Aston Martin is known for.
Even the side mirrors underwent extensive refinement to minimize turbulence. Small details that contribute to both the visual drama and aerodynamic efficiency of this remarkable machine.
Interior: Where Luxury Meets Technology
Stepping inside the DBX S reveals a cabin that strikes a perfect balance between old-world craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. This is where Aston Martin’s heritage shines through most clearly.
Hand-stitched leather covers nearly every surface, requiring over 200 hours of skilled labor to complete. Buyers can choose from an almost unlimited palette of colors and finishes, ensuring that no two examples need be exactly alike.
The semi-aniline leather seats feature heating, ventilation, and massage functions as standard. Their unique construction provides exceptional support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable for long-distance journeys.
Technology That Enhances the Experience
The centerpiece of the dashboard is a 10.25-inch high-definition display powered by the latest generation infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come standard, as does a 23-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system.
A customizable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster adapts its information display based on the selected driving mode. In Sport+ mode, it prioritizes performance metrics like g-forces and lap times, while Comfort mode emphasizes navigation and efficiency data.
Advanced driver assistance systems provide an invisible safety net without interfering with the driving experience. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system that makes maneuvering this sizeable vehicle surprisingly easy.
Performance Data: The Numbers That Matter
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the DBX S performance specifications compared to its closest rivals:
| Specification | Aston Martin DBX S | Lamborghini Urus | Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT | Ferrari Purosangue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 807 hp | 657 hp | 631 hp | 715 hp |
| Torque | 738 lb-ft | 627 lb-ft | 626 lb-ft | 528 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.2 seconds | 3.5 seconds | 3.1 seconds | 3.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 193 mph | 190 mph | 186 mph | 193 mph |
| Weight | 4,940 lbs | 4,844 lbs | 4,796 lbs | 4,962 lbs |
| Price | $265,000 | $229,495 | $189,900 | $398,350 |
These numbers place the DBX S firmly among the elite performers in the super-SUV category. Its combination of raw power and refined handling characteristics create a unique driving experience.
Driving Modes: Personality on Demand
The DBX S offers six distinct driving modes, each dramatically altering the vehicle’s character:
- GT Mode: Balanced settings for everyday driving
- Sport Mode: Sharpened throttle response and firmer suspension
- Sport+ Mode: Maximum performance settings for track or spirited driving
- Terrain Mode: Optimized for light off-road conditions
- Terrain+ Mode: Maximum capability for challenging off-road situations
- Individual Mode: Custom settings tailored to driver preferences
Each mode adjusts up to 50 different parameters, from throttle mapping to suspension firmness and steering weight. This versatility allows the DBX S to excel in virtually any driving scenario.
Bespoke Craftsmanship: Your DBX S, Your Way
Aston Martin’s Q customization program reaches new heights with the DBX S. Virtually every aspect of the vehicle can be personalized to the owner’s exact specifications.
Paint options extend far beyond the standard palette, with historical colors from Aston Martin’s 110-year history available upon request. For the truly discerning, the company will even create a completely unique shade based on any sample provided.
Interior materials range from traditional Bridge of Weir leather to exotic options like alpaca wool and rare sustainable woods. Carbon fiber trim elements can be customized with colored weaves to match or contrast with the exterior.
Limited Production Ensures Exclusivity
Despite overwhelming demand, Aston Martin plans to limit DBX S production to fewer than 1,000 units per year. Each vehicle receives a numbered plaque signed by the technician who supervised its final assembly.
This deliberate scarcity ensures that the DBX S will remain a rare sight even in areas where luxury vehicles are commonplace. It also suggests strong future collectibility for this groundbreaking model.
“We’re not interested in volume production,” states Aston Martin’s CEO. “The DBX S represents our absolute best work, and that level of quality cannot be rushed or compromised.”
Real-World Performance: Beyond the Numbers
Track testing reveals the true nature of the DBX S. Despite its considerable size and weight, it lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife in an astonishing 7 minutes 30 seconds – faster than many dedicated sports cars.
More impressively, the DBX S accomplishes this without sacrificing the comfort and practicality expected from a luxury SUV. The spacious rear seats and substantial cargo area remain fully functional despite the performance focus.
Even fuel efficiency exceeds expectations thanks to cylinder deactivation technology that temporarily transforms the V8 into a four-cylinder during light cruising. Combined with the 9-speed transmission’s tall overdrive gears, this allows for reasonable economy during highway driving.
All-Weather Capability
The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system features a variable torque split that can send up to 100% of power to the rear axle when conditions allow. This provides the engaging rear-biased handling that Aston Martin enthusiasts expect.
When weather conditions deteriorate, the system can instantly redistribute torque to maintain stability. Advanced traction control algorithms specifically developed for the DBX S intervene only when absolutely necessary, preserving the natural driving feel.
Winter testing in the Arctic Circle confirmed the vehicle’s capability in extreme conditions. Special cold-weather packages are available for buyers in northern climates, including heated windshield and steering wheel options.
The Price of Perfection
Excellence of this caliber doesn’t come cheaply. The Aston Martin DBX S starts at $265,000 before options, placing it among the most expensive SUVs currently available.
However, this figure reflects the extraordinary engineering and craftsmanship that went into creating this vehicle. When compared to dedicated supercars offering similar performance, the DBX S actually represents reasonable value – especially considering its everyday usability.
Most buyers will add at least $50,000 in personalization options, with some commissions exceeding $400,000 for fully bespoke examples. Despite this premium positioning, order books are reportedly filling rapidly.
Ownership Experience
Aston Martin has reinvented its ownership program for DBX S customers. Each buyer receives a personal concierge who oversees everything from the initial specification process to ongoing maintenance.
The comprehensive warranty package covers all components for five years with unlimited mileage. Scheduled maintenance is included for the first three years, ensuring that ownership costs remain predictable.
For the ultimate peace of mind, Aston Martin offers a global assistance program that provides support anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day. This includes everything from technical advice to emergency transportation if necessary.
Redefining What’s Possible
The Aston Martin DBX S represents far more than just another luxury SUV. It embodies a fundamental shift in what we should expect from high-performance vehicles in this category.
By combining supercar acceleration with genuine luxury and everyday usability, Aston Martin has created something truly special. The DBX S doesn’t ask owners to compromise – it simply delivers excellence across every parameter.
As other manufacturers inevitably follow this path, we’ll look back at the DBX S as the vehicle that redefined the super-SUV segment. For now, it stands alone at the pinnacle of automotive achievement – a fitting flagship for one of the world’s most storied automotive brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Aston Martin DBX S be available for purchase?
A: The DBX S is available to order now, with first deliveries expected to begin in the third quarter of this year.
Q: Does the DBX S have genuine off-road capability?
A: Yes, while primarily designed for on-road performance, the DBX S features dedicated terrain modes and adjustable ride height for moderate off-road use.
Q: How does the DBX S compare to the standard DBX?
A: The DBX S offers approximately 255 more horsepower, substantially revised suspension, enhanced aerodynamics, and exclusive interior options not available on the standard model.
Q: What is the fuel economy of the Aston Martin DBX S?
A: Official figures indicate 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway when driven conservatively, though real-world economy will vary significantly based on driving style.
