Aston Martin DB11 debuts at 2016 Geneva Motor Show
Aston Martin鈥檚 brand renaissance, known as the Second Century Plan, kicked off today at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show with the unveiling of the DB11. The new grand tourer is the direct replacement for Aston Martin鈥檚 aging DB9 and the first model to be based on the British marque鈥檚 all-new platform.
Under the stewardship of former Nissan executive Andy Palmer, Aston Martin has introduced a bold-looking聽聽that鈥檚 instantly recognizable as a DB yet still fresh and distinctive. But the breathtaking design also helps aid aerodynamics. For example, lift is reduced by the gill-like 鈥淐urlicue鈥� just behind the front wheels. This releases high-pressure air from inside the wheel arch via a concealed vent within the redesigned side-strake. Further lift is reduced by Aston Martin鈥檚 new AeroBlade design located at the base of each C-pillar. Close rival Ferrari [NYSE:RACE] introduced a similar system a few years ago on its 599 GTO.
You'll need all the downforce you can get in the DB11 as the car is no slouch, thanks to its newly developed V-12. The engine is a twin-turbocharged unit that displaces 5.2 liters and delivers 600聽聽and 516聽 pound-feet of torque. This is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and will rocket the DB11 to 60 mph from rest in under 4.0 seconds. The top speed is in excess of 200 mph. A twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 sourced from Mercedes-AMG will be offered at a later date.
As for the new platform, it鈥檚 a bonded aluminum structure like Aston Martin鈥檚 previous design. However, it now incorporates more lightweight materials and is more space efficient. The platform is significant as it鈥檚 the first new design from Aston Martin since the start of the previous decade. It鈥檚 also the platform that will underpin the聽聽and most likely聽.
As a true 21st century Aston Martin the DB11 also comes with the latest tech features. For example, there鈥檚 electronic聽, a brake-based torque vectoring system, adaptive dampers and a driving modes selector to aid the dynamic qualities of the car.
There are also a host of convenience features including a digital instrument cluster and an infotainment system controlled by a rotary dial and 聽touchpad. You also get camera-based monitoring systems, parking aids and even ISOFIX mounting points for a pair of child seats in the back. Yes, there鈥檚 finally some useable space in the rear of an Aston Martin.
The car will go on sale in the fourth quarter of the year, with prices starting from $211,995.
For more from the Geneva Motor Show, head to聽.
