From Skepticism to SUV: Aston Martin’s Evolution

A decade ago, the idea of an Aston Martin SUV was met with polite dismissal within the company. Executives maintained that such a vehicle was fundamentally at odds with the brand’s DNA, rooted in decades of crafting celebrated grand tourers and track-focused machines. This resistance mirrored a broader industry sentiment in the early 2000s, when the Porsche Cayenne was pioneering the high-end performance SUV category.

However, the automotive landscape dramatically shifted. As the 21st century progressed, smaller SUVs and crossovers began to dominate sales charts, eclipsing traditional sedans and station wagons. Automakers recognized the undeniable consumer demand, and even established luxury brands like Aston Martin couldn’t ignore the trend. The original DBX, launched in 2020, marked the brand’s initial step into this new territory, arriving two years after the Lamborghini Urus and three years before the Ferrari Purosangue.

The DBX S builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor and the even more potent DBX707 (introduced in 2022 and still available), retaining the powerful V8 engine while incorporating advancements in engineering for 2026. The result is a formidable SUV boasting 717 horsepower, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds, and reaching a top speed of 193 mph.

Engineering Excellence: Power and Precision

The heart of the DBX S is its meticulously engineered V8 engine, delivering exhilarating performance. A sophisticated nine-speed automatic transmission, equipped with a wet clutch system, ensures seamless gear changes, even under aggressive acceleration. This wet clutch technology, utilizing lubricating oil, provides quicker and smoother shifts compared to traditional dry clutch systems, enhancing the driving experience.

Courtesy Aston Martin‘>

Aston Martin has successfully navigated this challenge with the DBX S, incorporating design cues that echo its other models. The prominent grille, adorned with a meticulously crafted badge, and the flowing lines that extend from the hood to the rear haunches create a sporty and sophisticated profile. While the elevated cabin inevitably adds bulk, Aston Martin maximizes the space with over 22 square feet of cargo capacity.

Luxury and Refinement: Inside the DBX S

The interior of the DBX S offers a luxurious and comfortable environment, accommodating up to five passengers. While space is at a premium, reflecting the vehicle’s focus on sleek aerodynamics, the cabin is appointed with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. Mildly contoured leather seats provide excellent support, and the driver-focused cockpit places essential controls within easy reach. The updated in-dash display offers improved infotainment functionality compared to the DBX707.

The driving experience is surprisingly engaging for an SUV, delivering a blend of speed, agility, and stability. The Aston Martin exhaust note is distinctive – assertive yet refined, a subtle growl that hints at the power beneath the hood. The DBX S seamlessly integrates into the Aston Martin lineup as its largest and most GT-focused offering. But will it achieve the same sales success as its crossover competitors? Only time will tell.