Aston Martin’s SUV lineup has been steadily climbing the performance ladder since its introduction, and now the British automaker has unveiled its new flagship – the DBX S. Building on the already potent DBX707, this new range-topper borrows turbocharger technology directly from the upcoming Valhalla hypercar, shedding weight in all the right places while delivering even more visual aggression. It’s a formula that’s worked brilliantly for Aston’s sports cars, and now it’s being applied to the most un-Aston-like vehicle in the lineup with stunning results.
Valhalla Tech Brings More Muscle
Under the sculpted hood lies the familiar Mercedes-AMG-sourced 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, but it’s been treated to some serious upgrades. Using larger compressor wheels and other internal tweaks borrowed directly from the Valhalla program, power jumps by 20 PS to a formidable 727 PS (717 hp), backed by 900 Nm (664 lb-ft) of torque. The nine-speed “wet clutch” automatic transmission remains, though its shift mapping has been recalibrated with more aggressive downshifts in Sport and Sport+ modes and revised upshift points to take advantage of the engine’s higher-revving character.
The result is a 0-62 mph time of just 3.3 seconds (which feels conservative considering Car and Driver clocked the less powerful DBX707 at 3.1 seconds to 60), while the 0-124 mph sprint is dispatched 0.3 seconds quicker than before. Top speed remains an eye-watering 193 mph – not that anyone’s complaining. Adding to the performance theater is a modified exhaust system that takes full advantage of the V8’s natural voice, ensuring everyone within a half-mile radius knows you’re driving something special.
The Diet Plan Pays Off
Rather than simply stripping out luxury features, Aston Martin’s employed strategic lightweighting that enhances the driving experience. The optional carbon fiber roof—the largest carbon panel ever fitted to an Aston at nearly three meters square—shaves 18kg (40 pounds) from the highest point of the car, lowering the center of gravity and improving stability.
For those willing to go all-in on the weight savings, optional 23-inch magnesium wheel (the first ever in the SUV segment) cut another 19kg (42 pounds) of unsprung mass. Considering this weight comes directly off the wheels, the benefits in ride quality, steering precision, and responsiveness are substantial. Further weight savings come from the optional lightweight polycarbonate honeycomb grille and carbon fiber components for the bumpers, diffuser, side sills, and wing, bringing the total potential weight reduction to 47kg (104 pounds).
Distinctive S Identity
Visually, the DBX S sets itself apart with distinctive touches that emphasize its status as the range-topper. The front end gets a pure black vaned grille (or the optional honeycomb design), a more aggressive splitter, and the trademark wrap-around LED daytime running lights. Side sills feature unique upturned air splitters that direct airflow down the flanks, while solid metal ‘S’ badges with red enamel infill adorn the front fenders.
The most dramatic changes come at the rear, where quad exhausts are now vertically stacked rather than horizontally arranged. The rear bumper and diffuser have been completely redesigned, and a new lower livery design can be specified in three colors: Rosso Corsa Red, Trophy Silver, or Podium Green.
Inside, the DBX S features a bespoke ‘S’ theme centered around a distinctive herringbone design on the seats. The pattern features lines that widen as they progress upward, creating a visual impression of speed. Standard trim is lightweight Alcantara for the seats, headlining, console, and panels, with semi-aniline leather on high-wear areas. Those seeking more luxury can specify full leather trim, and red seatbelts are available to further emphasize the sporting character.
Even the audio experience gets the special treatment, with a standard 800-watt 14-speaker system that most automakers would consider an upgrade. True audiophiles can opt for the stunning Bowers & Wilkins setup, which delivers 1,600 watts through 23 precisely-placed speakers, including dedicated 3D headline units and a thumping subwoofer, which is perfect for drowning out the V8’s roar on those rare occasions when you’d want to.
Spec Sheet
Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8
Power: 727 PS / 717 hp
Torque: 900 Nm / 664 lb-ft
Transmission: 9-speed “wet clutch” automatic
0-62 mph: 3.3 seconds
Top Speed: 193 mph
Standard Wheels: 23-inch forged aluminum
Optional Wheels: 23-inch magnesium (19kg/42 lbs lighter)
Brakes: Carbon ceramic (420mm front, 390mm rear)
Sound System: Standard 800w 14-speaker or optional Bowers & Wilkins 1,600W 23-speaker
Pricing & Availability
The Aston Martin DBX S is available to order now with deliveries expected in Q4 2025. While U.S. pricing hasn’t been officially announced, European pricing suggests it will start around $270,000-300,000 before options (and potentially tariffs). Given the extensive customization options, expect most examples to command considerably more.
Recap
2025 Aston Martin DBX S
Gaydon’s flagship SUV borrows turbo tech from the Valhalla hypercar, sheds weight in all the right places, and wraps it all in distinctively aggressive styling, complete with a 717 HP powerplant.
