SimplyAbuDhabi XLVIII

T here is a particular moment, familiar to those who know the marque well, when an Aston Martin reveals its true intent. It’s not when you read the numbers, nor when you trace the lines of its sculpted bodywork, but when power, poise, and purpose converge into something unmistakably alive . With the DB12 S, Aston Martin has created precisely that moment — a new halo model that sharpens the Super Tourer ethos to its most compelling edge yet. The DB12 S builds upon the already formidable DB12, elevating it into a more focused, more expressive, and more emotionally charged machine. It is not a departure from refinement, but an intensification of it — a car that delivers heightened performance without sacrificing the distinction and craftsmanship expected of the brand’s grand touring lineage. At its heart lies a more potent iteration of Aston Martin’s twin- turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, now delivering 700PS and a surge of torque that feels both immediate and endlessly assured. Acceleration is swift and seamless — 0 to 60mph in just 3.4 seconds — but what truly defines the experience is not the stopwatch figure, but the way the car responds to you. Throttle inputs feel sharper, more intuitive, and more connected, creating a dialogue between driver and machine that feels instinctive rather than engineered. That sense of engagement is amplified by a reworked exhaust system that gives the DB12 S its own unmistakable voice. Quad tailpipes signal intent from the rear, while the soundtrack itself gains depth and texture across the rev range — purposeful at low speeds, stirring as the engine opens up. For those seeking an even purer expression, an optional lightweight titanium exhaust heightens the drama, sharpening the note while subtly reducing mass. Performance, however, is only half the story. What truly elevates the DB12 S is the way it carries that power. Suspension tuning has been refined to control roll and pitch more assertively, while subtle geometry adjustments improve front-end confidence and steering clarity. The result is a car that feels eager yet composed, capable of flowing through a series of bends with unshakeable confidence or covering long distances with effortless grace. Standard carbon ceramic brakes reinforce this duality. Beyond their formidable stopping power, they reduce unsprung weight significantly, improving ride quality and steering feel in the process. The pedal response remains linear and reassuring, even Aston Martin DB12 S: Redefining the Grand Touring Ideal Simply Abu Dhabi | 315