Aston Martin DB12 S debuts as 690-hp halo track-focused variant

Aston Martin has unveiled the DB12 S, a more powerful, track-focused variant of its DB12 grand tourer, with deliveries scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2026. The new model, offered as both a coupe and a Volante convertible, is billed by the company as the range-topping, halo version of the DB12 and the latest in a series of "S" variants that include the DBX S and Vantage S.

Aston Martin said the DB12 S uses an uprated twin-turbocharged 4.0 liter V8 that produces about 690 horsepower and roughly 590 pound-feet of torque. The company says the coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, with the Volante taking 3.5 seconds, and a top speed of 202 mph. Engineers also recalibrated the launch control and transmission software, a change the manufacturer says halves shift times and contributes to the quicker sprints.

The DB12 S receives a suite of chassis and braking upgrades aimed at sharper handling. Aston Martin fitted recalibrated Bilstein DTX dampers, a stiffer rear antiroll bar and refined camber, castor and toe geometry. The electronic rear differential was retuned and throttle and steering maps were adjusted to provide a more progressive pedal feel. Carbon...