A Worthy Update to a Classic
The successor to the Aston Martin DB9 was formally introduced today. The David Brown 11 is a worthy update on the VH architecture series in more ways that just appearances.
I’ll admit that the DBS was my favorite Aston Martin of recent years. Though Astons are known for being the “gentleman’s supercar”, I still appreciated the more aggressive stance and elements of the DBS over the DB9. In my opinion, the recent Vanquish model is also a beautiful car, but lacked some of the visual bite that I personally like. That being said, the new DB11 is a mix of everything from the One-77 to the DB10. I love it.
We know Aston Martin has teamed to work with AMG for developing power plants for future vehicles. This model does not have an AMG engine as I expected. Instead it has a newly developed 5.2 liter V12. It’s an all Aston Martin creation so we know it’s smooth and silky if not overly torquey (is that a word?).
Before I turn you over to the official press release, I must say I am very excited about the new interior electronics and upgrades. Aston Martin was worse than even Bentley and Land Rover for installing poor infotainment systems in vehicles for the price range they represent. It appears Bentley and soon Land Rover are correcting this oversight. Thankfully we see Aston Martin has upgraded not only the infotainment system in this new DB11, but also ditched the classy, but old instrument cluster for a modern 12” full color TFT display. This is joined by an 8” center infotainment and navigation display. This is a monumental improvement over the previous models. All of them.
So enjoy the official press release and accompanying data. I can’t wait to see this model on the street. It looks great here, but lets see its curb appeal while out in the jungle. I think it’ll be fine though.
ASTON MARTIN UNVEILS THE DB11: THE LATEST IN AN ILLUSTRIOUS BLOODLINE
Published: Mar 01, 2016
Tags: Models
1 March 2016, Geneva: A new chapter in Aston Martin’s history began at the 86th International Geneva Motor Show with the unveiling of the DB11. 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.
The DB11 showcases a fresh and distinctive design language, pioneering aerodynamics and is powered by a potent new in-house designed 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine. Built upon a new lighter, stronger, and more space efficient bonded aluminium structure, DB11 is the most powerful, most efficient and most dynamically gifted DB model in Aston Martin’s history. As such, it is the most significant new Aston Martin since the introduction of the DB9 in 2003.
Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Andy Palmer said: “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.”
Heralding a new design era for Aston Martin, DB11 is the latest landmark in a remarkable aesthetic journey; one that gave us icons such as the DB2/4, DB5 and, most recently, the DB10 developed specifically for James Bond. DB11 re-imagines the relationship between form and function with a series of fresh design signatures. Foremost amongst these are the front-hinging clamshell bonnet, distinctive LED headlights and accentuated lines of the iconic Aston Martin grille. The profile is equally dramatic, thanks to the roof strakes that flow uninterrupted from A-pillar to C-pillar. 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.
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. Naturally, it’s the most dynamic and most accelerative too, with a top speed of 200mph1 and a 0-62mph time of just 3.9sec1. Thanks to intelligent bank activation and stop-start technology that potency is matched by greatly improved efficiency.
To exploit the advantages of its new body structure and harness the immense performance of the new twin-turbo V12 engine, the DB11’s chassis, suspension, steering and electronics have been re-imagined and key new technologies embraced. Multiple driver-selectable dynamic modes – GT, Sport and Sport Plus – progressively intensify the response of the engine, 8-speed automatic ZF transmission together with the new electric power steering and Torque Vectoring by braking while increasing the firmness of the adaptive damping for a greater sense of agility. The result is a driving experience that combines exemplary ride comfort and true sports car agility, for an extraordinary breadth of dynamic capability.
As a true 21st century Aston Martin the DB11 combines the very latest technology developed in conjunction with technical partner, Daimler AG, with the finest quality and hand craftsmanship. Using a full-colour 12” TFT LCD display, the all-new instrument cluster presents primary vehicle information with absolute clarity, while a second, centrally-mounted 8” TFT screen is dedicated to infotainment. Controlled via an intuitive rotary control, with an optional touchpad offering character recognition, multi-touch and gesture support, the new satellite navigation and audio system have never been more effective, sounded better or been easier to operate. 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.
With wider door apertures, significantly increased occupant space – especially head and legroom in the rear – fully integrated rear ISOFIX mounting points for a pair of child seats plus a luggage compartment large enough to accommodate two large holdalls plus carry-on baggage, the DB11 is a genuine Grand Tourer. Thanks to an inspiring palette of colours and a vast array of detailing options, its interior can be perfectly in-tune with your unique personal style. From calming, carefully co-ordinated tones to sharp contrasts in hue and texture, your 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.
Dr Andy Palmer said: ““This is not only the most important car that Aston Martin has launched in recent history, but also in its 103-year existence. The DB11 rightfully places Aston Martin once again as a leading brand in the luxury automotive market”.
Recommended Retail Price from £154,900 in the UK2, €204,900 in Germany2 and $211,995 in USA3, first deliveries of the DB11 car are scheduled to begin during the fourth quarter of 2016.
1. Predicted figure
2. Includes 5-year servicing plan
3. Does not include 5-year servicing plan
Aston Martin DB11 Newsfeed
[google_news limit=5 query=”aston martin db11″]