The Aston Martin DBX S: Elevating the Super SUV to Uncharted Heights

In the world of automotive excellence, Aston Martin has carved its name with a legacy of precision engineering, unmatched luxury, and unparalleled performance. The introduction of the Aston Martin DBX S marks the brand’s bold step into the super SUV segment, taking the luxury SUV to an entirely new level. The DBX S isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a fusion of art, performance, and innovation that sets new benchmarks for what a super SUV can achieve. In this article, we’ll explore the incredible features of the DBX S that elevate it far beyond the expectations of even the most discerning automotive enthusiasts.

Unleashing Unrivaled Power

The heart of the DBX S is where the magic truly begins. At its core, the DBX S features the Mercedes-AMG-sourced 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8, an engine that already boasts legendary performance in its own right. But Aston Martin has taken this powerplant and enhanced it beyond measure, with a 19-horsepower boost over the DBX707, pushing the total power output to an astonishing 717 horsepower at 6250 rpm. This increase in power comes from a comprehensive turbocharger upgrade that features larger diameter compressors borrowed from the Valhalla supercar’s 816-hp version of the same engine. These modifications allow the DBX S to accelerate like no other SUV in its class.

With 717 horsepower, the DBX S catapults itself from 0 to 60 mph in just around 3.0 seconds—an exhilarating acceleration time that rivals many performance cars. Despite its substantial size, this is an SUV that feels more like a sports car than anything else. The 664 lb-ft of torque, which remains the same as in the DBX707, ensures that power delivery is instantaneous, with immense pulling power available at any speed. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or tackling tight corners, the DBX S delivers performance that feels both effortless and exhilarating.

The Transmission: Precision at Its Best

The DBX S comes equipped with a recalibrated AMG Speedshift MCT nine-speed wet-clutch transmission, an important component that works seamlessly with the enhanced powertrain. Aston Martin’s engineers have fine-tuned the transmission to better handle the DBX S’s newfound power. The result is a driving experience that is sharper and more responsive than ever before.

Upshift points have been adjusted to account for the engine’s new power characteristics. Peak power and torque now arrive at 250 rpm and 500 rpm higher than in the DBX707, meaning the vehicle’s acceleration feels even more aggressive and refined. Downshifts, particularly in the Sport and Sport+ modes, are more immediate and aggressive, giving the driver a more connected and dynamic driving experience. The recalibrated transmission ensures that every shift feels crisp, and the transition from one gear to the next is as smooth as it is thrilling.

A Lighter, More Agile Performance

While the DBX S’s performance is undoubtedly impressive, Aston Martin’s engineers didn’t stop at just power. They focused on improving the SUV’s agility and handling by shedding weight, making the DBX S lighter and more responsive than ever before. The result is a more refined driving experience that doesn’t compromise on performance.

When equipped with the right options, the DBX S can shed up to 104 pounds, thanks to a series of lightweight materials and components. For instance, the carbon fiber roof—an option that is the largest panel of its kind ever fitted to an Aston Martin—helps to save almost 40 pounds while lowering the SUV’s center of gravity. This contributes to improved handling and stability, particularly when cornering or navigating tight turns.

Furthermore, the DBX S features 23-inch magnesium wheels, a first for any SUV. These wheels save an impressive 42 pounds of unsprung mass compared to the standard forged aluminum wheels. Unsprung mass refers to the weight of the components that are not supported by the suspension system, such as the wheels, tires, and brakes. Reducing unsprung mass improves the suspension’s ability to react quickly to road conditions, enhancing ride quality and agility. In addition to the magnesium wheels, a lightweight polycarbonate honeycomb grille is available as an option, further reducing weight while also contributing to the DBX S’s aerodynamic efficiency.

Suspension and Handling: A Perfectly Tuned System

Aston Martin’s DBX S inherits the suspension enhancements introduced in the DBX707, which have been further refined for an even more responsive and comfortable ride. The suspension system combines air springs and electronic dampers, which work in tandem to increase body control and reduce weight transfer, enhancing stability and comfort.

The electronic roll control system in the DBX S ensures that the SUV remains composed even in extreme conditions. The vehicle rolls by no more than 1.5 degrees, even when pushed to the limit. This means that whether you’re driving on winding roads or taking sharp corners at high speed, the DBX S maintains excellent composure, preventing excessive body roll. The addition of carbon-ceramic brakes—16.5-inch rotors at the front and 15.4-inch rotors at the rear—ensures the DBX S stops on a dime, with six-piston calipers and high-performance pads offering exceptional braking power.

One of the standout features in the DBX S is the new, quicker four-percent steering rack. This change improves agility by making the vehicle more responsive to steering input, allowing for more precise cornering and a greater sense of connection to the road. The steering is now quicker and more direct, allowing the driver to feel fully in control, even at high speeds or under hard cornering.

A Striking Exterior: Performance Meets Luxury

The exterior design of the DBX S is as much about performance as it is about aesthetics. The rear of the SUV features stacked dual exhaust outlets, integrated into a redesigned rear bumper. A reprofiled diffuser adds an aggressive touch while improving aerodynamics. For those looking for even more performance-oriented design, Aston Martin offers the option of carbon fiber side sills, which reduce the DBX S’s overall weight by an additional 15 pounds.

In terms of visual appeal, the DBX S is available in three distinctive exterior colors: Rosso Corsa Red, Trophy Silver, and Podium Green. These colors highlight the front splitter and side sills, framing the stacked exhaust outlets and giving the vehicle a sporty, aggressive appearance that perfectly matches its performance. These visual enhancements not only improve the vehicle’s looks but also contribute to its lightweight design, helping to further reduce weight while enhancing its overall aerodynamic efficiency.

Luxurious Interior: The Ultimate in Comfort and Craftsmanship

Inside the DBX S, luxury and performance coexist in perfect harmony. The cabin is a masterclass in design, with every material chosen for both its aesthetic appeal and its contribution to the overall driving experience. The seats are upholstered in a distinctive herringbone pattern, with Alcantara trim used throughout the interior, including the center console and lower instrument panels. The headlining is also available in Alcantara, but only when the optional carbon fiber roof is chosen.

In areas that are subject to high wear, such as the seat bolsters, Aston Martin blends semi-aniline leather with the Alcantara for durability without sacrificing luxury. For those who want a more sporty touch, red seatbelts are available as an option, adding a dynamic and vibrant splash of color to the interior. And, as expected from an Aston Martin, the interior is available in a full semi-aniline leather trim, making the DBX S a haven of comfort and refinement.

The DBX S comes with an 800-watt, 14-speaker Aston Martin Premium Audio system as standard, providing clear, rich sound quality that complements the luxury of the interior. For audiophiles, there’s also the option to upgrade to a 1600-watt, 23-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system, ensuring that every journey is accompanied by the highest-quality audio experience possible.

Pricing and Availability: A New Era in Super SUVs

The Aston Martin DBX S is set to make its U.S. debut in the fourth quarter of this year, with pricing expected to be around $270,000, excluding any applicable tariffs. While the final price has yet to be confirmed, this figure is based on European pricing, and it reflects the exclusive nature of this high-performance SUV. With its cutting-edge technology, luxury features, and blistering performance, the DBX S is positioned at the very top of the luxury SUV market, offering an unrivaled combination of power, agility, and opulence.

The New Standard in Super SUVs

The Aston Martin DBX S is more than just a luxury SUV—it’s a redefinition of what a super SUV can be. From its blistering performance to its lightweight design and stunning interior, the DBX S is a vehicle that blends style, luxury, and power in a way that few others can match. Aston Martin has not just raised the bar for super SUVs; they’ve set an entirely new standard. Whether you’re looking for performance that rivals sports cars or the kind of luxury that only an Aston Martin can offer, the DBX S is the SUV for those who demand the very best.