SHAKEN AND STIRRED
Aston Martin’s alpha of SUVS has arrived
707, NOT 007
Have you recently had to reluctantly hand back the keys of the DB5 to Q and bid MI6 farewell? The good news is that all is not lost; just replace 007 with 707, the high-performance luxury SUV from Aston Martin DBX707.
LICENCE TO THRILL
The DBX707 promises blistering performance, supreme dynamics, unmistakable style and absolute luxury. It might not have the power of front-firing machine guns like the DB5 but it has more than ample fire in its Amg-derived 4,0-litre V8 belly that delivers … you guessed it … 707 PS (520 kw) and 900 N.m, with a zero to 100 km/h time in a breathtaking 3,3 seconds.
A suite of performance enhancements such as the standard fitment of carbon ceramic brakes makes this possible. Measuring 420 mm front and 390 mm rear, these CCB discs are gripped by six-piston callipers and result in a 40,5 kg reduction in unsprung weight. Improved brake cooling has been achieved by taking air from both the main cooling intake and the underfloor, with high-performance brake pads delivering excellent friction consistency across a wide temperature range.
A nine-speed wet-clutch automatic transmission is capable of handling much higher torque loadings than a regular torque converter automatic, which helps to ensure usable performance. The clutch enables the gearbox to achieve gear changes 30% faster, handle 29% more torque and gives drivers a precise and direct sense of control that feels almost instantaneous.
LIVE AND LET DIE
Three main competitors that will be vying for the ultimate seat of power: Lamborgini Urus, claimed to be the world’s first super sport SUV in terms of performance; the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT in terms of dynamics; and the Bentley Bentayga Speed in terms of brand cachet, now dethroned as the world’s fastest luxury SUV.
The DBX707 has the perfect mix of form, function and fun with striking cosmetic changes.
The front end sports a satin chrome and larger front grille and new DRL horizontal layout and air intakes, brake cooling ducts, front splitter profile, dark satin chrome surrounds and a gloss black splitter.
At the rear, the 707’s aesthetics, aerodynamics and, as a result, its performance have been enhanced by adding a lip spoiler to the roof wing to reduce lift and increase high-speed stability. It also has a significantly enlarged and protruding twin rear diffuser to accompany its new quad exhausts that have been tuned to deliver a unique sound signature.
As you fire the turbocharged engine up, the world’s fastest, most powerful SUV awakens.
The interior is pure Aston Martin. but to underline the Aston Martin DBX707’S driver-focused credentials, there have been some changes and enhancements to the Dynamic Drive modes. Race Start is available in GT Sport and Sport+ modes to maximise off-the-line acceleration and truly showcase the enhanced performance. Revised active logic in the all-wheel-drive system transfer case achieves greater harmony and precise control between the driveline and the ESP system, for a more natural, sportscarlike driving experience. According to Aston Martin’s chief creative officer, Marek Reichman: “DBX707 is a true performance beast, yet retains the beauty and elegance you expect from Aston Martin’s DNA.”
One criticism levelled at this British beast is the presence of an older Mercedes-benz derived information screen. In an era of screen FOMO, according to Aston Martin, this is already being addressed.
FOR YOUR EYES ONLY
To further enhance the exclusive nature of DBX707, Q by Aston Martin – the brand’s bespoke service – delivers the ultimate in personalisation. So why not add a sense of Saville Row-esque exclusivity to an already superb offering?
ETA:
The order books are currently open.