Aston Martin DBX S is faster, lighter and more luxurious
The British brand’s flagship SUV is taken up a notch
Aston Martin’s new flagship DBX takes the SUV segment and cranks it to the next level, borrowing engine technology from its terrifyingly quick Valhalla supercar.
The DBX S is faster, lighter and more luxurious than its predecessor - the DBX707 - cementing its place in the conversation for the best SUV available today.
Why S?
The DBX S continues Aston Martin’s tradition of using ‘S’ to distinguish the highest performance version of one of its models. Its original use can be traced back to the 1953 DB3S Le Mans racer, although more recently it has been seen on the Vanquish S and V8 Vantage.
Greater Power
Powering the DBX S is an upgraded version of the 4.0-litre Twin-Turbo V8, with turbo technology transferred from the soon-to-be-seen Valhalla supercar. Using larger compressor wheel diameters and other internal improvements, the power has increased by 19bhp to 717bhp, giving the DBX S a 0-62mph time of 3.3 seconds, though its top speed stays the same at 193mph.
An increase in power is also matched with an increase in volume thanks to a modified exhaust system.
Weight Loss
As is common with Aston Martin’s ‘S’ versions, reducing weight goes a long way to increasing speed. This is the case with the DBX S, with a number of measures taken to trim the fat on the new flagship SUV.
The largest ever carbon element ever fitted to an Aston Martin makes up the roof of the DBX S, saving 18kg and reducing the car’s centre of gravity for increased stability and agility.
While 23” forged aluminium wheels come as standard on the DBX S, for the first time on any SUV, magnesium wheels are now available as an option. Being 75% lighter than steel, half the weight of titanium and a third less than aluminium, a further 19kg of weight can be saved by going with a 23” optional wheel. This option also sees the roof rails taken off for extra weight savings, although customers can choose a lightweight polycarbonate honeycomb grille made up of 25,000 individual facets, if needed.
Fresh Design
From the front, the recognisable pure black vaned grille can be swapped with a 770 Ultimate-inspired lightweight polycarbonate grille with a honeycomb design. This is complemented by a new splitter and diffuser alongside the wraparound daytime running light design.
On the side, new sills come with upturned air splitters offering practical and aesthetic benefits, helping channel airflow along the side of the DBX S. More carbon fibre can be chosen for the wing mirrors, side strakes and lower door sill, while the ‘S’ signifier is seen on the front fenders. These badges are manufactured in solid metal, glass enamelled with the ‘S’ infilled in red as it appeared on previous models like the V12 Vantage S and the Rapide S. The badge surround is then chrome plated in either the bright or dark chrome to match the colour of the wings chosen by the customer.
At the rear, quad exhausts are the prominent feature and can be specified in gloss and matt finishes. The rear bumper, diffuser, side sills and wing have had a refresh in design and can be selected in carbon to reduce the weight of the DBX S by a further 7kg.
Interior
Inside, the DBX interior is distinguished by its herringbone design, which comes as standard on seats, and this can be extended to the headlining if the option Carbon roof is chosen.
Lightweight sporting Alcantara is used as standard on the seats, headlining, centre console, lower instrument panels and upper trim, although those looking for an even more luxurious feel can go for semi-aniline leather and red seatbelts.
The S-ness of the model is amplified with the letter embroidered onto the seats, and also appearing on the treadplates and engine plaque. The Aston Martin logo can be seen on the headrests for an added touch.
Aston’s latest in-house infotainment system is rolled out once again in a newly designed cabin, which combines simplicity with luxury. The louder sounds coming from the exhaust can be drowned out by the Aston Martin Premium Audio 800w 14 speaker audio system, which comes as standard. For an even greater acoustic experience, however, there’s a 23-speaker Bowers & Wilkins option
How much is the DBX S?
Those convinced by the extra power and comfort can place their order now. Prices start from £210,000, with deliveries expected to begin in the final three months of 2025.
words: Mike Booth
pictures: Aston Martin