Aston's DBX S Narrows Gap Between Driver Intent and Vehicle Response

Aston Martin’s new DBX S offers 717 hp from its V8 engine with significant 47kg weight reduction through carbon fibre components.
First-ever magnesium wheels in the SUV segment reduce unsprung mass by 19kg, improving handling, ride quality and steering response.
Distinctive design elements include vertical quad exhausts, black vaned grille, and ‘S’-themed interior with herringbone pattern details.

Aston Martin announced its new flagship SUV model, the DBX S, featuring increased power, reduced weight, and enhanced driver connection compared to the continuing DBX707. Revealed on April 30 at the company’s Gaydon headquarters, the new model produces 717 horsepower from its upgraded 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, representing a 20 horsepower increase over its predecessor while introducing significant weight-saving options that transform the driving experience.

The DBX S accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds, with a reduced 0-200 km/h acceleration time and a top speed of 311 km/h (193 mph). The power increase stems from turbo technology transferred directly from Aston Martin’s upcoming Valhalla supercar, including larger compressor wheel diameters and internal improvements. The engine pairs with a modified 9-speed “wet clutch” transmission, delivering more aggressive shifting in Sport and Sport+ modes while distributing power variably between the front and rear wheels for unprecedented driver control.

47kg Lighter with Magnesium Wheels for Enhanced Driver Feedback

Aston Martin DBX S wheels — Aston Martin DBX S | Photo: Aston Martin

Weight reduction forms a central element of the DBX S driver engagement strategy, with customers able to specify options that decrease overall mass by up to 47kg compared to the DBX707. The new optional carbon fibre roof spans nearly three metres square—the largest such element ever fitted to an Aston Martin—and saves 18kg while lowering the vehicle’s centre of gravity for improved handling response and feedback. In an SUV segment first, the DBX S offers optional 23-inch magnesium wheels that reduce unsprung mass by 19kg, enhancing road feel, ride quality and steering precision. Additional carbon fibre components, including a lightweight polycarbonate honeycomb grille with over 25,000 individual facets, further contribute to the weight savings and sharpen driver connection.

The steering ratio is 4% faster than the standard model, noticeably improving agility and creating a more direct relationship between driver input and vehicle response. This enhancement makes the DBX S feel more sporting and responsive while reducing the turning circle by almost half a metre to just 12.0 metres. The suspension has been recalibrated with revised air springs and electronic dampers, increasing transient body control to reduce weight transference and improve primary ride quality and overall stability. Even at the limit, electronic roll control keeps body roll to no more than 1.5 degrees—flatter than many purpose-built, two-seat sports cars.

Visually, the DBX S introduces a dramatically redesigned exterior profile. The front features a pure black vaned grille alongside new splitter and diffuser elements. From the side, new sills with up-turned air splitters direct airflow more efficiently, while distinctive ‘S’ signature badging adorns the front fenders. The most significant changes appear at the rear, dominated by vertically stacked quad exhausts available in gloss or matt finishes, housing elements that amplify the natural voice of the thunderous V8 engine for enhanced driver engagement through auditory feedback.

The interior showcases a distinctive ‘S’ theme, with seats featuring a herringbone design that creates an impression of speed with lines widening as they progress upward. Standard specification includes lightweight sporting Alcantara trim on seats, headlining, centre console, and instrument panels, with semi-aniline leather on high-wear areas. Interior options include full semi-aniline leather upholstery, red seatbelts, and a headlining that matches the herringbone seat pattern when the carbon roof is selected. The DBX S utilizes Aston Martin’s latest in-house infotainment system and comes standard with an 800W 14-speaker audio system, with an optional 1,600W 23-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system available.

“The introduction of DBX S not only reaffirms our commitment to producing the most exciting, rewarding and beautiful cars, it also sends a powerful statement of intent about our ambitions not just for DBX, but for the Aston Martin brand,” said Aston Martin CEO, Adrian Hallmark.

The DBX S continues Aston Martin’s tradition of using the ‘S’ suffix to denote high-performance variants, dating back to the Vanquish S launched at the 2004 Paris Motor Show. The new model is available to order now, with deliveries expected in the fourth quarter of 2025.