Aston Martin releases its new Bond-worthy beast
Aston Martin’s sleek new sports car is reporting for duty. By Toby Hagon.
FOR insight into the DB11’s level of detail, look no further than the Bridgestone tyres. Sure, they’re black and round but their model code is S007 – a subtle nod to James Bond, who so often selects the exclusive Aston Martin sports cars for his gadget-laden missions.
Not that the DB11 has had a starring role yet. While the quintessentially British brand created the DB10 solely for 007 instalment
Spectre, the DB11 is every bit as Bond-worthy. It’s also the first vehicle to emerge after the partnership with Daimler, parent company of Mercedes-Benz. The tie-up will ultimately see Aston Martin adopt Mercedes-AMG’s V8 engine but for now the DB11 is all V12. The new 5.2-litre engine benefits from twin turbochargers to deliver a hearty 447kW and a prodigious 700Nm of torque. Even better, it’s available from just 1500rpm, ensuring plenty of satisfying thrust. Driving through a smooth eight-speed automatic, it’s claimed to reach 100 kilometres in 3.9 seconds, making it almost as fast as it looks. The design will also appeal. Aston Martin has freshened the DB11’s familiar look while maintaining a timeless elegance and genuine presence that doesn’t rely on bold colours to turn heads.
While bonnet vents relieve heat from the engine, innovative aerodynamics aim to improve stability at high speeds – including Curlicue vents in the lining of each front wheel arch that reduce lift. And at the rear, the subtle Aeroblade guides air into the body then out through a vent near the boot. There’s sufficient weight to keep the DB11 pinned to the road. At nearly 1.8 tonnes it’s not light and this dampens the enthusiasm of that V12. The weight also makes it more grand tourer (GT) than corner king, though there’s ample grip through bends. Supple suspension is relaxed for what is an accomplished GT. For added crispness and a subtle dynamic lift, tighten the adjustable dampers.
At $395,000, the DB11 isn’t cheap but the attention to detail is impressive, right down to the traditional dash-mounted push-button gear selectors. Bond would appreciate a few more toys inside – the latest active safety systems are missing. Still, there’s enough presence and personality to back the most convincing Aston Martin in years.