The Aston Martin DB12 Becomes Even Faster With New 'S' Performance Trim

Aston Martin’s DB12 is the latest model to get the brand’s signature performance treatment, with the new DB12 S model. The Vantage and DBX have both received this treatment, a historic trim in Aston Martin’s lineage. 

To create the S trim, the DB12 receives a hoard of performance and visual upgrades. The DB12’s Mercedes-derived twin-turbo V8 gets a power bump from 670 hp to 690 hp, while torque figures remain the same at 590 lb-ft. Additionally, its weight has been reduced, and the DB12 S is 27 kg lighter due to the addition of carbon-ceramic brakes.

The transmission has been retuned, allowing shifts to be 0.1 seconds faster. This combination results in the DB12 S being able to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, 0.1 seconds faster. 

The S receives extensive suspension, damping, and differential tuning, all of which contribute to the DB12 S's sharper handling. To top off the package, Aston Martin also revamped the exhaust of the DB12 S, allowing for a louder and more aggressive note. 

To distinguish the S model, the exterior has been tweaked to match the additional performance, with the DB12 S receiving new dual splitters and larger hood vents, which improve handling and cooling, respectively. 

The side also receives gloss black side skirts and S badges. Meanwhile, the rear gets a subtle rear spoiler and a new defuser, both of which provide the DB12 S with additional downforce and enhance handling. The upgraded exhaust is reflected visually with new stacked dual exhaust pipes on each side, housed in a new bumper to accommodate the new exhaust design. The interior receives red touches throughout, such as a red metal drive control, with red seatbelts, and contrasting seat stitching. 

Deliveries of the 2026 Aston Martin DB12 S are expected to start in early 2026. The DB12 sits between the entry-level Vantage and the top-of-the-range Vanquish in Aston Martin’s coupe lineup.