Aston Martin DB12 S Review
Aston Martin DB12 S
A powerful, refined super Grand Tourer that evolves the standard DB12 with increased performance and sharper dynamics.
How This Score Is Calculated
- Sources analysed: 8 reviews
- Raw weighted average: 7.8
- Formula: Σ(score × weight) ÷ Σ(weight)
- Review period: 2026 Model Year
- Final score: 7.8/10 (rounded to 1 decimal)
- Most reviewed featurePerformance (8/8)
- Most praisedEngine Power
- Most criticisedRear seat practicality
- Reviewer consensus levelHigh
The Aston Martin DB12 S is a sophisticated evolution of the standard DB12, successfully balancing high-octane performance with the comfort expected of a luxury Grand Tourer. While it faces stiff competition from more agile track-focused rivals, it wins favor for its stunning design, high-quality cabin, and immense V8 power. It remains an ideal choice for those who prioritize a charismatic, occasion-worthy drive over pure lap times.
🔧 Key Specifications
- Engine: Twin-turbocharged V8
- Power: 690 hp (approximate)
- Brakes: Standard carbon-ceramic
- Roof: Carbon-fiber (mandatory on some trims)
- Seating: 2+2 (impractical rear)
💲 Price Range
₹1,61,00,000 to ₹2,67,00,000 (approximate market range)
📊 What Reviewers Say — Feature by Feature
👍 Key Strengths
- Stunning exterior design and presence
- Powerful 690-hp twin-turbo V8
- High-quality, luxurious interior materials
- Improved suspension and handling
👎 Key Weaknesses
- Impractical rear seats for adults
- Significant vehicle weight
- High price premium over base model
- Infotainment software glitches
💰 Value for Money Analysis
While the DB12 S commands a significantly higher price than the standard DB12, reviewers consider it a high-value choice compared to exotic rivals, provided the buyer values the brand's unique blend of performance and luxury.
⚡ Where Reviewers Disagreed
- Suspension Comfort: Some sources praise the balance of sportiness and comfort, while others feel the softest suspension mode is still too firm for long-distance touring.
🎯 Who This Product Is For
🛠️ Best Use Cases
- High-Speed Touring The powerful engine and refined chassis make it an exceptional machine for covering large distances at speed. Great
🔀 Alternatives Mentioned by Reviewers
- Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo: An elegant, more spacious alternative that offers a more rewarding and characterful driving experience at a lower price point.
- Porsche 911 Turbo S: The benchmark for track-focused agility; choose this if you prioritize lap times over the Aston's grand touring elegance.
- Bentley Continental GT: A more comfort-oriented luxury cruiser that is generally considered more luxurious but less sporty than the DB12 S.
- Mercedes-AMG SL 63 Roadster: A more comfort-focused convertible alternative that is significantly cheaper than the DB12 S Volante.
- Ferrari (Various Models): Often cited as the benchmark for raw, dual-clutch transmission engagement; the DB12 S is positioned as a more balanced, less aggressive alternative.
🛒 Buyer's Guide
✅ Buy This If…
- You want a stunning, high-presence design.
- You prioritize V8 power and grand touring capability.
❌ Skip This If…
- You need usable rear seats.
- You are looking for a track-focused sports car.
📈 Sentiment Trends Over Time
Reviews indicate the 'S' update has successfully addressed the initial flaws of the standard DB12, shifting sentiment from 'compelling but flawed' to 'highly capable refined evolution'.
The Aston Martin DB12 S is a triumph of engineering that polishes the original DB12 into a more potent and balanced grand tourer. While hindered by software glitches and limited rear-seat space, its immense power and undeniable character make it a top-tier choice for those who value the 'occasion' of driving. If you prioritize luxury and presence over track-focused agility, this is a must-consider.
PLG_CONTENT_IMAGEGALLERY_ERROR_NO_IMAGES
Reviewer Perspectives & Source Breakdown
2026 Aston Martin DB12 S Volante: $319K Convertible Review - autotorque....
Price: Rs 2,67,00,000
The 2026 Aston Martin DB12 S Volante is a premium grand tourer that prioritizes classic British elegance and a luxurious open-top experience over sheer track performance. While it commands a high price for its style and presence, it serves as an intoxicating choice for those who value an occasion-worthy drive.
Pros
- Stunning, unmistakable design and road presence
- Immense 690-hp V-8 power
- Vastly improved, modern infotainment system
Cons
- Significant weight affects ultimate agility
- Rear seats are impractical for adults
- High base price demands specific justification
Aston Martin DB12 S (2026 - ) review | Autotrader - autotrader.co.uk...
Price: Approximately 2,12,00,000 INR
The Aston Martin DB12 S is a powerful and beautifully crafted super Grand Tourer that feels like a more mature evolution of the standard model. Despite frustrating software glitches, its exceptional engineering and performance make it a compelling, high-value choice in its segment.
Pros
- Fantastic Aston Martin engineering
- More mature than the standard DB12
- Beautiful and high-quality interior design
- Powerful V8 engine performance
Cons
- Unreliable infotainment and software glitches
- Impractical rear seats for passengers
- Carbon-ceramic brakes lack confidence on road
- Digital driver display is less appealing than analog
Aston Martin DB12 S Review: How Much Difference does One Letter Make? | ...
Price: Approximately ₹2,07,00,000 to ₹2,36,00,000
The DB12 S offers marginal performance and handling improvements over the standard model. It is a highly capable grand tourer that successfully balances high-speed engagement with touring comfort.
Pros
- Hugely engaging to drive fast
- Does not sacrifice touring ability
- High-quality cabin with satisfying tactile buttons
Cons
- Other GTs offer more comfort and luxury
- Performance gains are extremely marginal
- Expensive price premium over base model
New Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo review – Aston Martin DB12 rival gets mo...
Price: Approx. ₹1,61,00,000
The updated Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo offers a more rewarding, characterful driving experience with increased engine aggression and improved responsiveness. While the interior updates are mixed, it remains a compelling and stylish grand tourer.
Pros
- Increased engine power and improved exhaust note
- More responsive and intuitive handling
- Spacious and airy interior cabin
- Excellent harmony between engine and transmission
Cons
- Interior toggle controls lack tactile quality
- New digital clock display feels cheap
- Cabin material quality is thin in certain areas
Aston Martin DB12 review – a flawed but seriously charming Ferrari Amalf...
Price: Approximately ₹2,15,00,000
The Aston Martin DB12 is a compelling grand tourer that successfully balances high performance with modern cabin quality. While initial versions were somewhat flawed, the 'S' update has refined its dynamics, making it a highly engaging and capable front-engined sports car.
Pros
- Powerful 671bhp twin-turbo V8 engine
- Modern, high-quality cabin and user experience
- Excellent acceleration and straight-line performance
- Precise handling and high front-end grip
Cons
- Lacks strong aural character from the engine
- Steering feedback could be more communicative
- Not as tactile as some direct competitors
Aston Martin DB12 S (2026) review: the same, but better - carmagazine.co...
Price: Approximately 22,250,000 INR
The Aston Martin DB12 S is essentially an improved version 2.0 of the original, offering more speed and agility without sacrificing comfort. While less dynamically sharp than its Porsche and Ferrari rivals, it remains an exceptional, charismatic grand tourer.
Pros
- Impressive engine sound and exhaust note
- Stunning exterior looks
- High level of character and charm
- Improved agility and handling over base model
Cons
- Gearbox could be sharper
- Noticeable vehicle mass
- Rear seats are impractical
Review: 2026 Aston Martin DB12 S – duPont REGISTRY News - news.dupontreg...
Price: Approximately ₹2,29,00,000
The 2026 Aston Martin DB12 S adds refined sportiness and increased power to the super-tourer, though it leans more aggressively into performance than some might prefer. It remains a spectacular machine that balances long-distance touring with sharper handling.
Pros
- Impressive 690 horsepower twin-turbocharged V8 engine
- Standard carbon-ceramic brakes for superior stopping power
- Improved suspension and steering provide excellent handling
- Sophisticated and balanced chassis dynamics
- High-quality interior materials and customization options
Cons
- Significantly higher price point than the base DB12
- Softest suspension mode still feels firm for touring
- Carbon-fiber roof and spoiler are now mandatory
- Expensive optional packages inflate the price rapidly
aston martin db12 s review how much difference does one letter make Pros...
Pros
- Hugely engaging to drive fast
- Doesn't sacrifice touring ability
Cons
- Other GTs offer more comfort and luxury
- Gains over the standard car are seriously marginal