Two years after redefining the grand touring category with the DB12, Aston Martin is back with an S-badged variant that does what the storied suffix has always done best by taking an already exceptional car and make it better in every measurable way. Available in both coupe and Volante convertible forms, it’s the new crown jewel of the DB lineup.
The S Badge Returns
Since the DB3S road racer first wore it in 1953, the ‘S’ designation has meant one thing at Aston Martin: this is the one you want if you’re serious. Following the recent revival with the DBX S and Vantage S, the DB12 S continues that tradition by becoming the new halo of the DB bloodline. And after spending 75 years perfecting the formula, they’ve got it down.
More Power, Sharper Response
The hand-built 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 now produces 690hp — a 20hp increase over the standard DB12 — while torque holds steady at 590lb.ft. That’s enough to drop the 0-60 sprint to 3.4 seconds in the coupe and 3.5 seconds in the Volante, with launch control that’s been optimized to reduce shift times by over 50 percent. The top speed remains at 202 mph, but the throttle calibration has been reworked with a new drive-by-wire map that gives you more progressive feel and connection through the pedal.
The quad exhaust setup — a visual signature of the new S models — comes standard in stainless steel, but there’s an optional titanium system that sheds 26lbs while adding 1.5dB to an already potent soundtrack.
Chassis Refinement
Carbon-ceramic brakes are now standard (a $14,500 option on the base DB12), saving 60lbs of unsprung weight while improving both stopping power and thermal management. The chassis sees a stiffer rear anti-roll bar, recalibrated Bilstein DTX dampers, and refined geometry settings that target sharper turn-in without sacrificing the GT comfort Aston is known for. The electronic rear differential and steering have also been retuned to allow earlier throttle application coming into corners.
Visually, the DB12 S announces itself with a new dual-element front splitter, hood louvres, and a revised rear diffuser that accommodates those stacked quad pipes.
S-Specific Interior Details
Inside, the DB12 S distinguishes itself with a red anodized rotary drive mode controller. That red theme carries through to the seatbelts, contrast stitching, and headrest embroidery. You get a choice of three trim environments: Accelerate leather and Alcantara, or two Inspire S configurations in semi-aniline leather. Both Inspire options include S-specific herringbone quilting with micro-perforations and an Alcantara headliner. The 16-way Sport Plus seats come standard, though you can upgrade to carbon fiber performance seats if you’re chasing more weight savings.
Spec Sheet
Model: 2026 Aston Martin DB12 S
Engine: 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8
Power: 690hp
Torque: 590lb.ft
0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds (Coupe), 3.5 seconds (Volante)
Top Speed: 202 mph
Brakes: Carbon-ceramic (standard)
Wheels: 21″ with Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S
Weight: 4,012lbs (Coupe), 4,255lbs (Volante)
Pricing & Availability
The DB12 S is available to order now in both Coupe and Volante configurations, with deliveries beginning in early 2026. Pricing hasn’t been officially announced, but it’ll likely be upwards of around $270,000.
Recap
2026 Aston Martin DB12 S
Aston Martin’s new DB12 S takes the already impressive Super Tourer and adds 20 more horsepower, carbon-ceramic brakes as standard, sharper chassis tuning, and signature quad exhaust pipes, all while keeping the refinement that makes it a proper GT.
