2026 Aston Martin DB12 S unleashed with 700 HP
Aston Martin has revealed the most powerful DB12 S yet
It's been over two years since Aston Martin unveiled the all-new DB12. Despite having the number 12 in its name, the super tourer only has a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine that belts out 680 PS and 800 Nm of torque. From a standstill, Aston Martin says the DB12 can hit 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 325 km/h. In case you want a convertible version, there’s also the DB12 Volante, which was revealed a few months after the hardtop was unveiled.
Two years later, Aston Martin has unleashed the most powerful version of the DB12 nameplate yet. Say hello to the 2026 Aston Martin DB12 S, and it now serves as the new pinnacle of performance and style from the Gaydon-based automaker.
Starting with the most important aspect, the DB12 S becomes the new halo model of Aston Martin’s lineup thanks to a more powerful 4.0L twin-turbo V8. It now generates 700 PS at 6000 rpm along with a healthy 800 Nm of torque between 3000 and 6000 rpm. This translates to an increase of 20 PS compared to the regular DB12.
For those who want to hear the V8 wail more, an optional titanium exhaust system amplifies the signature sound by further boosting the bass, mid, and treble frequencies. In addition, the titanium exhaust system weighs 11.7 kg less than the regular stainless steel system.
Besides having a little bit more power and better exhaust, the DB12 S also gets significant chassis and drivetrain upgrades. For starters, the electronic rear differential (E-diff) has been recalibrated to dial in further connection and response for a more intuitive feel. This now allows drivers to use more throttle earlier in the corner for maximum corner entry to exit.
Another upgrade the DB12 S has is the standard fitment of carbon ceramic brakes, which offer increased braking performance and thermal capacity, as well as reduced weight. The front discs measure 410mm while the rear rotors come in at 310mm in diameter. The carbon ceramic brakes also save 27 kg of unsprung weight, which gives the DB12 S better handling and a lighter curb weight.
The automaker even gave the DB12 S the next-generation corner braking control (CBC) system. It now features a predictive function, wherein the CBC allows the car to maintain optimum stability while trail-braking into a corner by using the rear brakes to maintain a tighter line from corner entry onto the apex. This allows drivers to brake later with improved stability and also provides torque vectoring across the rear axle to deliver consistent cornering behavior in all driving environments.
For faster off-the-line launches, Aston Martin optimized the Launch Control system by reducing gearshift times by over 50%. This allows the DB12 S to sprint from 0 - 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds. Software changes were also applied to the Bilstein DTX papers to improve roll & pitch control work in harmony with a stiffer rear anti-roll bar and finessed camber, toe, and castor geometry settings.
Design-wise, the DB12 S builds on the muscular proportions of the regular DB12, but is made sharper, sleeker, and more dynamic. The front fascia gets a pair of new dual-element front splitter that makes for a more assertive look while also generating extra downforce in and around the front wheel arches. Meanwhile, new hood louvers help in extracting hot air from the twin-turbo V8, while also giving the DB12 S a meaner look.
To remind everyone else that this is no ordinary DB12, the exterior comes with plenty of “S” badges in key locations. Towards the rear, the DB12 S gets a fixed rear spoiler to give it a more dramatic look, while also increasing high-speed stability. A new rear diffuser reduces lift while allowing space for the signature stacked pair of exhaust pipes.
Hop inside, and the DB12 S welcomes the lucky few owners who will be able to get such a vehicle with plenty of amenities. These include a heated Alcantara sports steering wheel, embossed Aston Martin wings on the headrests, and a red anodized finish to the knurled metal drive mode rotary selector.
A total of three interior trim choices are available for the 2026 DB12 S: Accelerate leather with Alcantara trim, Inspire S semi-aniline leather, and Alcantara with Inspire S full semi-aniline leather. Other key extras include 16-way Sport Plus electric front seats along with the optional Carbon Fiber Performance Seat.
Interested in getting one? Better let Aston Martin know, as deliveries will commence in Q1 2026. The DB12 S will be available in both coupe and Volante body styles.
