In August of this year, Aston Martin officially unveiled the DB12 Volante at the 2023 Monterey Car Week. The new model combines two of the brand’s most iconic models, the DB models – a series of releases named after previous chairman, David Brown – and the Volante convertibles, creating a unique blend of classic style with remarkable sporting capabilities. With its time-honouring design, it seemed fitting for the DB12 Volante to launch in the same year as the British car manufacturer’s 110th anniversary. Since its establishment in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, Aston Martin has been renowned for its iconic sports cars, and this latest iteration is no different, embodying elegance, sophistication, and high-class performance into one luxury vehicle.
The DB12 Volante completes a series of releases made by Aston Martin this year, including the coupe counterpart to the luxury convertible. While both cars share the same streamlined silhouette, having followed the same athletic design synonymous with previous DB models, the main visual difference between the two releases is the roof. The DB12 Volante features market-changing engineering that allows the vehicle to compact its soft-top roof into a 260mm high space, showcasing Aston Martin’s dedication to seamless integration of form and function. Moreover, the Volante is 111kg heavier than the DB12 coupe with a dry weight of 1796kg; this additional weight accounts for the roof mechanics featured on the Volante model.
The electric roof mechanism can open in 14 seconds and close in 16 seconds, with both operations able to take place at speeds up to 80.5 km/h to ensure that the thrill of open-top driving is not compromised. For the ultimate convenience and a touch of theatrical flair, the roof can also be controlled within a two-metre radius of the car using the remote keys.
Constructed from eight layers of fabric to guarantee maximum sound insulation, buyers can choose from four fabric colours – black (as standard), red, blue, and silver – for added personalisation. As always, Aston Martin offers an array of customisable options through its Q by Aston Martin division, allowing customers to make a statement with their vehicle that is uniquely their own.
While the exterior honours the style of previous DB iterations, the inside of the Volante has been fitted with state-of-the-art technology. With a modern Aston Martin-designed interface and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring wireless internet connectivity, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, satellite navigation, and over-the-air downloadable software updates to provide a seamless and connected experience. Additionally, an 11-speaker, 390-watt Bowers and Wilkins sound system is fitted as standard, surrounding passengers in a world of rich, immersive audio. Although an optional 15-speaker, 1170-watt version is available for those seeking an even more sensational sonic experience.
Some previous design elements have remained, such as the classic materials, like wood veneer or carbon fibre, for all interior panelling and creating a traditionally luxurious interior. The Volante also continues using physical switches for essential functions. This way, drivers can control the gear selector, drive modes, suspension, stability control and exhaust modes, replicating the tactile experience featured in competitive driving.
To fully achieve sportscar status, the Aston Martin DB12 Volante is fitted with a high-output 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, hand-built and sourced from Mercedes-AMG. This advanced engine produces an impressive 500kW and 800 Nm of torque, which is then sent to the rear wheels using an exclusive eight-speed automatic transmission. This one-of-a-kind engineering allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in a mere 3.7 seconds and jaw-dropping top speeds of 325 km/h. Combined with modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger turbos, and enhanced cooling mechanisms, this gives the Volante a 34% increase in output than its predecessor, the DB11.
In addition to its exceptional engine, the convertible has also been equipped with new-generation adaptive dampers, providing a 500% increase in bandwidth of force distribution, as well as four stability control modes and four regular drive modes. Moreover, an engine cross-brace and revised rear suspension mountings make it 3.7% stiffer, and an additional 140% stiffness increase in the front suspension mounts guarantees a level of precision and responsiveness that sets the DB12 Volante apart.
The DB12 Volante’s braking performance is equally impressive, with cast-iron 400mm front and 360mm rear discs as standard. For those seeking even greater stopping power, optional carbon-ceramic discs are available. These reduce unsprung mass and enhance performance that can be executed on the racetrack.
The Aston Martin DB12 Volante is a triumph of automotive design, seamlessly blending the brand’s traditional designs with its modern engineering innovations. This revolutionary vehicle is expected to reach Australian dealerships by Q1 2024, where it is expected to redefine the market with its demonstration of power, luxury, and performance. From a convertible roof that defies convention to its breathtaking acceleration, this convertible sets a new standard for open-top motoring. For those who demand nothing but the best, the DB12 Volante delivers in every conceivable way.