British Open: Driving report: Aston Martin DB12 Volante

Access: 3:29 pm | Reading time: 4 minutes

SPX/Donaueschingen. When it comes to marketing, UK cuts are not the way to go. “When we bring the new DBX to market soon, Aston Martin will have the smallest range of any manufacturer,” European boss Andreas Bareis proudly announces. “Then we relaunched all the models in just one year.” But until then, the DB12 Volante should be launched. The variable cost at 242,500 euros is largely based on the DB12 Coupé, which was introduced in autumn 2023. And that’s about it. Finally, Aston Martin wants to be at the forefront of high-end sports cars again and even wants to poach in Ferrari territory. So more power had to be put under the hood, because with 535 hp, the predecessor DB11 remained behind the competition. Now the four-liter V8 produced by Mercedes-AMG produces 680 hp and 800 Newton meters. This means that the DB12 breaks the mark of 100 kilometers per hour from a standstill in 3.4 seconds and at least surpasses the Ferrari Roma (620 hp) or the Porsche 911 Turbo (650 hp).

In the DB12, British engineers have further strengthened the aluminum structure in the lower part and steering. In addition, adaptive dampers should increase the range of power distribution by 500 percent, we read in the press kit. The rear spring rate and damping settings are specifically adjusted to the needs of an open top sports car.

Aha. We approach the 4.72 meter long super sports car with a little modesty and first enjoy the successful numbers. After all, driving an Aston Martin always has something to do with understatement. Of course, not spoilers or air vents mar the open body, which sits on 21-inch forged wheels. You can see the car’s performance. But it doesn’t seem overly aggressive or intrusive.

Leap brand has done can also be seen in the interior. While the predecessor had to ignore major shortcomings or outdated infotainment technology, the DB12 is now updated in terms of operating system and digital offerings, including over-the-air updates. However, the digital cockpit seems to be very limited when driving. The speed limits shown should be higher, because of course you are traveling very fast in an Aston Martin. The small central touchscreen also seems like a shame. Indeed, this system supports Apple Car Play or Android Auto wirelessly. It uses 3D maps and dynamically calculates routes based on traffic conditions. But if you are on the move and want to quickly click the speed limit warning or look for another menu item, you have to look very closely.

On the other hand: All important driving features can be set directly using the eight buttons below. Three-stage adjustable exhaust sound or various driving modes. The designers also had a nice leather couch, and it’s clear that the “look and feel” is appropriate for a car that costs at least 242,500 euros.

Then let’s go: In just 14 seconds, the roof folds into a flat 26-centimeter package in the back, leaving at least enough room for a golf bag to fit. Immediately after starting, the sound of the V8 fire turns into a socially acceptable, gentle sound, so that the descent can be made without any trouble from the neighbors. Behind the city sign, the V8 shows what 680 hp means. Good performance, but always easy to control. The surprising thing about the Volante is not its incredible storage or its fast acceleration, which is better experienced in the race than on public roads anyway. Instead, its chassis offers a surprising range, from comfortable to rock-hard. And if the five predefined operating modes aren’t enough, you can put together your own personal combination of lightness, stability and comfort. The DB12 avoids the aggressiveness with which a McLaren or Lamborghini drives its driver. This means you can enjoy the drive to the countryside in a quiet way, accompanied by the surround sound of the Bower & Wilkins music system. And what if someone pushes from behind? Smile and sit back. You know what you have under the hood.

Aston Martin DB12 Volante – Technical data:

changing games; Length: 4.73 m, width: 2.06 m (with exterior glass: 2.14 m), height: 1.29 m, wheelbase: 2.81 m, trunk: 262 l (roof closed)

4-liter V8; Power: 500 kW / 680 HP; Torque: 800 Nm/2,750 min
8-speed automatic torque converter, rear-wheel drive
0-100 km/h: 3,7 s, Vmax: 325 km/h
Consumption: 12.2 l/100 km, CO2 emissions: 276 g/km
Price: from 242,500 euros

Aston Martin DB12 Volante – brief features:

Why: Aston Martin

Why not: not very suitable for everyday use

What else: Porsche 911 Cabrio Turbo S, Mercedes-AMG SL 6.3 V8, Ferrari Roma Spider 3.9 V8

When is it coming: It’s already in stores