ASTON MARTIN DB12 Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

In Aston Martin's more than a century of existence, there hasn't been a more famous model family than the iconic DB. For 75 years, the grand tourer went through ups and downs, from featuring in the iconic "James Bond" series to struggling in the market because of the British automaker's financial challenges. The new DB12 comes as a history-packed vehicle but adjusted to the luxury and performance that define sports cars these days.

Having an impressive 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph (325 kph), the Aston Martin DB12 fully expresses the power of its 4.0-liter Twin-Turbo V8 engine with the help of an 8-speed automatic transmission. To increase power, the diameter of the turbochargers was enlarged, and the cooling system was upgraded and redesigned to ensure the good functioning of the powertrain. For the power to be useful, Aston Martin developed a precise Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system and an Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff) capable of locking or unlocking in a matter of milliseconds.

The new standard 21-inch forged alloy wheels have been well-researched and developed, receiving a 17 lbs (7.7 kg) weight reduction from the previous model's 20-inch wheels. Weight saving in the wheel zone is further extended by the Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB), which offer an almost 60 lbs (27 kg) weight cut beside the increased braking performance and capability of performing just as well when the temperatures rise to the highest levels.

Complementing the wheels, the new grand tourer comes equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S tires that are developed to fulfill Aston Martins's engineer's requirements in terms of comfort and performance. For example, the polyurethane foam inserts beneath the "AML" marked carcass reduce the vibration and noise transmitted to the vehicle's interior for a smoother and more comfortable driving experience. From a performance perspective, the tires were engineered to suit in the best way possible the new DB12, offering excellent traction and stability in both wet and dry conditions.

The redesigned front end showcases a more prominent and reshaped radiator opening, accompanied by a modified splitter. Enhancing these changes are the new LED headlights, which beautifully frame the front of the vehicle. The car's exterior is designed to simultaneously have a bulkier and refined look, providing a sportier aspect and a broader stance that can underline the "Super Tourer" identity, as Aston Martin calls it.

Quality is the word that best describes the model's interior, combining luxurious jewelry elements with top-class materials, such as distinctive fine leather, manufactured in the British archipelago. Practicality-wise, the interior combines superior materials with updated technology to offer a unique driving experience. A surround Bowers & Wilkins audio system accompanies Aston Martin's first in-house infotainment system. Adding physical switches, such as the one used to navigate through the GT, Sport, and Sport+ modes, creates a better connection between the driver and the vehicle.