Amid the growing wave of electrification and smaller engines, V12 powertrains remain symbols of technical excellence and a passion for mechanics. Despite environmental restrictions and the efficiency of smaller engines, elite automakers continue to offer models equipped with these 12-cylinder giants in 2025. This article explores ten cars that uphold this tradition, combining raw performance, sonic refinement, and uncompromising exclusivity.
Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider: The Last Naturally Aspirated V12
The Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider emerges as one of the last incarnations of the naturally aspirated V12 engine, a mechanical gem that dispenses with turbochargers to deliver 830 hp. The convertible version, unveiled in 2024, maintains the philosophy of linear torque delivery and a metallic roar that extends up to 9,500 rpm. The chassis, stiffened to compensate for the absence of a fixed roof, utilizes aluminum and carbon fiber alloys, ensuring structural rigidity comparable to the coupe version. The transmission is an eight-speed dual-clutch that synchronizes shifts in 30 milliseconds, while the active aerodynamics continuously adapts to balance downforce and air resistance. With an estimated price of €395,000 in Europe, the Spider is not just a sports car but a testament to Ferrari’s resistance to naturally aspirated engines in times of downsizing.
Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II V12: Tailored Sophistication
Updated for 2025, the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II retains the 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 engine, now with 612 hp and 950 Nm of torque. The novelty lies in the satellite-assisted transmission, which uses GPS data to pre-select gears in curves, reducing unnecessary shifts and improving fluidity. The Flagbearer system, equipped with front cameras, scans the asphalt and adjusts the suspension every 5 milliseconds, creating the sensation of “floating” over irregularities. The interior, upholstered in New Zealand sheep wool and slow-grown woods, includes a Bowers & Wilkins sound system with 18 speakers and active noise cancellation. Starting at €344,000, the Ghost Series II redefines understated luxury, offering 6.3 km/l in the WLTP cycle—a feat for a 2.6-ton sedan.
Aston Martin Vanquish 2025: The Pinnacle of British Power
The Aston Martin Vanquish 2025 sets a new benchmark for the brand with its 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 engine, generating 835 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque. Developed in partnership with Aston Martin’s Formula 1 team, the powertrain combines direct injection and variable geometry turbos to reduce lag to 0.3 seconds. The ZF eight-speed transmission incorporates a rear e-diff that distributes torque between the wheels, allowing acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 345 km/h. The chassis, 23% stiffer than its predecessor, uses magnetorheological suspension with Track and Comfort modes, adjusting stiffness and height in real-time. Priced at R$5.4 million in Brazil, the Vanquish includes extensive customization, with options like Supernova Red paint and 21″ satin bronze wheels.
Mercedes-Maybach S680: The V12 as a Diplomatic Artifact
The 2025 Mercedes-Maybach S680 perpetuates the V12 tradition in an executive luxury package. Its M279 E60 LA engine, a 6.0-liter V12 with 630 hp, operates in conjunction with a 48V mild hybrid that smooths starts and recharges batteries during braking. The Magic Body Control system, updated with artificial intelligence, anticipates road undulations using stereoscopic cameras and adjusts the suspension pneumatically. The rear space, the focal point, offers massage seats with Spa function (including aromatherapy and air ionization) and 12.3″ OLED screens controlled by a jade remote. Starting at €228,000, the S680 maintains an average consumption of 15.1 l/100km, justifying itself as a choice for those prioritizing status over efficiency.
Rolls-Royce Cullinan: The SUV that Defies Physics
The 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan proves that a 2.7-ton SUV can house a V12 without compromising sophistication. Its 6.75-liter engine delivers 600 hp and 900 Nm, enough to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds—impressive numbers for a vehicle that offers 560 liters of trunk space even with reclining seats. The All-Wheel Steering transmission allows rear wheels to turn up to 3 degrees, reducing the turning radius by 15%. The interior, highlighted by the Starlight Headliner with 1,340 optical fibers, includes a built-in refrigerator in the rear console and an entertainment system with 8K streaming. With a base price of €380,000, the Cullinan combines discreet off-road capability (up to 21 cm ground clearance) with unparalleled refinement.
Zenvo Aurora Tur: Scandinavia Enters the V12 Game
Denmark at its core, Zenvo surprises with the 2025 Aurora Tur, equipped with a 6.6-liter quad-turbo V12 paired with three electric motors, totaling 1,850 hp. The plug-in hybrid architecture allows for 60 km of electric range, while the total power propels the car to 450 km/h, making it the fastest production V12 in the world. The body made from T1000 fiber, developed in partnership with Boeing, weighs only 1,450 kg, with active aerodynamics that include a retractable diffuser and articulated front wings. Produced in a limited series of 50 units at €2.5 million each, the Aurora Tur redefines the limits of contemporary automotive engineering.
Zenvo Aurora Agil: The Lightweight Brother of the Tur
Sharing the same platform as the Tur, the 2025 Zenvo Aurora Agil prioritizes agility over top speed. Its 6.6-liter V12 loses two turbochargers, delivering 1,250 naturally aspirated hp, while three electric motors raise the total to 1,466 hp. A weight reduction of 150 kg compared to the Tur (totaling 1,300 kg) is achieved through magnesium panels and titanium fiber suspension. The pure rear-wheel drive system includes a limited-slip differential controlled by vector torque, allowing for controlled drifts in Drift mode. With production limited to 100 units, the Agil costs €1.8 million and reaches 365 km/h, prioritizing the driving experience over raw numbers.
Pagani Utopia Roadster: Sculpture in Motion
The 2025 Pagani Utopia Roadster represents the pinnacle of Italian artisanal philosophy, featuring a Mercedes-AMG M158 V12 engine with 6.0 liters and 864 hp. The Carbotanium body (carbon fiber and titanium) weighs 1,280 kg, while the optional seven-speed manual transmission pays homage to 90s Supercars. Details like machined aluminum door handles and gold-coated exhaust ensure resistance to temperatures of 900°C, while the sound system harmonizes the V12 roar with resonances controlled by active valves. With a starting price of €2.3 million, each Utopia Roadster takes 3,800 hours to build, justifying its limited production of 30 units per year.
Ferrari 12Cilindri Coupé: The Swan Song
The coupe sibling of the Spider, the Ferrari 12Cilindri 2025 maintains the same 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, but in a stiffer configuration allowed by the fixed body. The power increases to 840 hp thanks to a redesigned intake system and Inconel exhaust, reducing backpressure. The Race mode activates front spoilers that generate 390 kg of downforce at 250 km/h, while the Side Slip Control 8.0 system allows fine-tuning of oversteer through gyroscopes. Priced at €395,000, the Coupé includes the Assetto Fiorano package with magnetorheological dampers and forged magnesium wheels, saving 12 kg.
Bentley Continental GT Speed: Luxury with Momentum
While not detailed in the results, the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed is presumed to be equipped with the renowned W12, although rumors suggest its replacement with a 650 hp twin-turbo V12 to meet emission standards. The updated MSB-F platform incorporates 48V active suspension and rear steering, reducing the turning radius by 10%. The interior, available with 400-year-old walnut wood trim, includes a Naim sound system with 2,200W and piezoelectric transducers in the headrests. With an estimated price of €250,000, the Speed balances luxury and performance, reaching 335 km/h.
The V12 as a Philosophical Statement
The persistence of V12 engines in 2025 transcends mere technical specification—it is a statement of principles. Automakers like Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, and Zenvo challenge economic and environmental conveniences, offering unique sensory experiences. While legislators push for total electrification, these cars prove that there is still room for pure mechanics, even in ultra-luxurious niches. Their existence is not anachronistic but rather a reminder that automotive passion still pulses, fueled by the unmistakable roar of twelve cylinders in harmony.