Aston Martin DBX S revealed: even more power for performance SUV

New flagship Aston Martin DBX S will be even lighter and punchier than the regular model...

Aston Martin DBX S front left driving

On sale Winter 2025 Price from £230,000 (est)

If you think about it, the new Aston Martin DBX S has a lot in common with a fresh plate of sushi topped with wasabi sauce – what was already a high-end dish enhanced with a spicy kick of flavour.

Indeed, the DBX S is the new high-performance variant of Aston Martin’s first ever SUV, the DBX, and it’s been designed to produce sporty power while still offering the practicality SUVs are best known for.

Upgraded with technology borrowed from the upcoming Aston Martin Valhalla supercar, the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine of the DBX S pumps out an extra 20bhp of punch compared with the ‘regular’ DBX707 model, for a total output of 717bhp. Despite the extra boost, it matches the regular DBX’s 0-60mph time of 3.1sec – but that’s still enough to outrun a Bentley Bentayga and Ferrari Purosangue.

Aston Martin DBX S rear right driving

Thanks to some new lightweight options, the new DBX S can get up to 47kg lighter than the current model, which should make for some more agile performance. Those options include a carbon fibre roof and wing mirrors, 23in magnesium wheels and a polycarbonate grille, among others.

The DBX S gets the same nine-speed automatic gearbox as the regular DBX707, although some modifications should make downshifts more aggressive in Sport and Sport+ modes. On top of that, an updated exhaust system should amplify the sound of the engine – hopefully providing even more musicality to the thundering soundtrack we already love.

Outside, the DBX S gets an aggressive new vaned grille stretching the width of the front bumper, as well as ‘S’ badge detailing and new vertically-stacked quad exhausts. The rear bumper and diffusers can also be specified with carbon fibre to make the car even lighter, while 23in aluminium wheels come as standard.

Aston Martin DBX S interior

Inside, most surfaces are finished with faux suede Alcantara trim as standard, but you can also upgrade to a full leather interior. The ‘S’ detailing from the outside continues onto the seats and treadplates under the doors.

In terms of infotainment, the DBX S gets much the same treatment as the current regular DBX, with a 10.25in central touchscreen alongside a 12.3in driver’s display. We find the system on the DBX to be generally pleasantly responsive and logical, although some of the icons are a bit fiddly to operate on the move. Android Auto and Apple Carplay come as standard.

A 14-speaker surround sound system comes as standard, but audiophiles might be pleased to know that you can upgrade to a 23-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system. Other creature comforts include heated front and rear seats, a 360-degree camera system and a powered tailgate.

The DBX S is due to arrive in showrooms in winter. No pricing is confirmed yet, but it’s expected to be a step up from the £205,000 price tag of the regular DBX 707.

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