Think you know supercars? The 2026 DB12 S arrives with 690 hp and a chassis secret that will blow your mind.
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In the luxury automotive landscape, where beauty meets ferocity and tradition meets innovation, few names resonate as deeply as Aston Martin. For 2026, the British brand once again raises the bar with the Aston Martin DB12, a grand tourer that not only delights the eyes but also dominates the roads with performance worthy of its heritage. Poised to win hearts and minds, the DB12 presents itself as a true icon, now with the addition of the even more powerful “S” version.
2026 Aston Martin DB12: The Elegance of British Performance
The 2026 Aston Martin DB12 is more than a car; it is a declaration of style and power. Inspired by the robustness and iconic beauty of a Royal Air Force Spitfire fighter jet, it encapsulates a unique blend of intrinsic beauty, breathtaking speed, and impeccable craftsmanship—characteristics that have become synonymous with the brand. Although it is a champion of luxurious cruising, this grand tourer hides an arsenal of power under the hood. The mechanical heart propelling the DB12 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, a machine that delivers an impressive 671 horsepower in the base model. This raw strength is enough to propel the vehicle to a maximum speed of 325 km/h (202 mph), transforming every trip into a thrilling experience.
But Aston Martin doesn’t stop there. For enthusiasts seeking even more adrenaline and driver involvement, the year 2026 marks the arrival of the highly anticipated DB12 S model. This new version joins the lineup with even greater power, reaching 690 horsepower, and a series of updates focused on further enhancing dynamic performance. The DB12 S promises a more visceral driving experience, with significant chassis revisions to optimize handling, steering response, and braking capability. Aesthetically, the S model differentiates itself with exclusive exterior elements, including a more aggressive front splitter, a ventilated hood, black side skirts, a rear diffuser, and a quad-exit exhaust, in addition to strategically placed “S” badges that announce its sportier nature. Inside, the DB12 S receives a red anodized finish on several contact points, optional heated Alcantara sport seats, and a choice of three stunning interior themes, ensuring that exclusivity extends to every detail. The exhaust note is also optimized to be more “rorty”—meaning fuller and sportier—and carbon-ceramic brakes are standard, guaranteeing tireless stopping power and weight reduction.
The eight-speed automatic transmission channels this power smoothly and efficiently to the rear wheels, controlled by an electronic differential that optimizes traction and stability. When testing the DB12 coupe on winding roads in Southern France and the DB12 Volante convertible on the Pacific Coast Highway in California, we were impressed by the pairing: both the V8 powertrain and the car’s balanced handling. Even in the most aggressive driving mode, Aston Martin managed to preserve a comfortable ride without unduly compromising agility in corners. It is important to note, however, that the throttle response can sometimes be a bit too aggressive, slightly deviating from the smooth grand tourer character. In terms of 0-60 mph acceleration (0-96 km/h), Aston Martin claims 3.4 seconds for the DB12 S and 3.5 seconds for the DB12 S Volante. While impressive, these numbers place it slightly behind competitors like the 2026 Ferrari Roma Spider (3.1 seconds) and the 2025 Bentley Continental GT (2.8 seconds). Nevertheless, the DB12 compensates with its balance, luxury, and the unmistakable Aston Martin experience. For those seeking the future of combustion sports cars, the DB12 offers a glorious prospect.
Exclusive Interior and Intuitive Technology
Once the road “enemies” have been dispatched and a smooth stretch of asphalt presents itself, the meticulously crafted interior of the DB12 offers a luxurious, leather-filled refuge from the action. The cabin is a testament to Aston Martin’s commitment to luxury and exclusivity. Hand-stitched leather wraps almost every surface, from the dashboard to the seats, which are offered in three distinct styles to suit the most demanding tastes. And, as always, there is the exotic flair that announces your arrival and attracts envious glances everywhere you go.
The interior experience is complemented by a state-of-the-art infotainment system. The DB12 marks the debut of the first infotainment system entirely developed by Aston Martin itself. A 10.3-inch central screen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity and intuitive access to all functionalities. An 11-speaker audio system comes standard, but audiophiles can opt for a 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system, which elevates the sonic experience to a new level. For those concerned about safety, the DB12 comes standard with a series of driver-assistance technologies, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams, ensuring peace of mind on every journey. Regarding practicality, it is not reasonable to expect a spacious trunk in a car of this caliber, and the DB12, in fact, offers a mediocre space, sufficient for daily tasks and some shopping. The rear seats, in turn, are more suitable for small bags than for passengers.
Pricing, Trims, and the Final Verdict
The price of the 2026 Aston Martin DB12 is a reflection of its exclusivity and performance. The base Coupe model has an estimated starting price of around US$252,000, while the Volante (convertible) version starts at approximately US$272,000. For those seeking the pinnacle of performance, the DB12 S Coupe has an estimated price of US$285,000, and the DB12 S Volante reaches the US$300,000 mark, depending on options and personalization. Aston Martin offers a wide range of customization options, allowing each owner to create a car that best suits their individual taste.
Although the new “S” version is tempting with its 690 hp and dynamic enhancements, unless you plan to frequently push your ultra-luxury grand tourer to the dynamic limit, our recommendation leans towards the standard DB12. It already comes fully equipped with all desirable luxury amenities and offers a sublime balance of comfort and performance. Opting for the coupe instead of the convertible can also be a smart choice, as it is lighter, faster, and generally more practical. Fuel consumption, as expected for a 671-horsepower sports car, is a “gas guzzler,” with estimates of 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, numbers that are not expected to change much for the 2026 model. Aston Martin offers three-year limited and powertrain warranties with unlimited mileage, aligning with other high-end manufacturers, although it does not include complimentary maintenance visits in its coverage. While the DB12 seeks its place in the pantheon of the most powerful hypercars, it maintains its identity as a distinct grand tourer, offering a fascinating alternative to other Aston Martin jewels.
The 2026 Aston Martin DB12, with its Coupe and Volante variants, and the exciting addition of the S model, solidifies its position as one of the most desirable grand tourers on the market. It offers a rare combination of stunning design, a sumptuous interior, and performance that lives up to its lineage. For those seeking the essence of luxury driving with an extra dash of excitement, the 2026 DB12 is an undeniably sweet choice, a true British icon ready to roar on the world’s roads.
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Author: Fabio Isidoro
Founder and editor-in-chief of Canal Carro, he dedicates himself to exploring the automotive universe with depth and passion. A car and technology enthusiast, he produces technical content and in-depth analyses of national and international vehicles, combining quality information with a critical eye for the public.
