The open-top version of Aston Martin’s epic DB12 has arrived, with the covers coming off the spectacular Volante. It combines super tourer performance and handling with the irresistible sensory thrills of roof-down driving.
Developed parallel to its Coupe stablemate, the DB12 Volante boasts the same game-changing design, engineering and tech, with its own key structural elements. These include rear suspension upper mounting points and lateral connections specific to this variant.
The Volante’s performance credentials speak for themselves. Best-in-class potency from its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine ensures 500kW of power and 800Nm of torque, for a 0-100km/h sprint time of 3.7 seconds.
Power is fed through a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, which like the DB12 Coupe, features a range of shift strategies for each of the dynamic driving modes. The Volante also uses the same shortened final drive ratio and electronic rear differential.
A four-stage ESC and a choice of five pre-defined dynamic modes pair with intelligent adaptive dampers to give the DB12 Volante a range of dynamic capability and character far in excess of class rivals.
The result is a convertible car with an extraordinary breadth of capability. Central to the Volante experience is its electrically-operated ‘K-fold’ roof. Featuring eight layers of insulation, the fabric canopy is acoustically enhanced for improved interior cabin comfort.
There are four different exterior hood colours to choose from. Black is standard, with a choice of Red, Blue and ‘Black and Silver’ as options. But it’s not all about visuals, and inside you’ll find a myriad of classy touches.
Wood veneer or carbon fibre panels on the seatbacks match the door trim inlays, while the DB12’s bespoke 10.25-inch infotainment system, Bowers & Wilkins surround sound setup and HMI systems immerse occupants in a fully connected state-of-the-art experience.
A new 3D navigation system gives intuitive, clear instruction with lane guidance and real time traffic overlays. Connected dynamic routing avoids unnecessary delays and satellite view is available for those who like to see details.
With Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, occupants can also access their device applications seamlessly. The final piece of the puzzle is the QuantumLogic sound system, with 15-speakers, producing a double amplified 1,170W of aural euphoria.
Aston Martin has also recognised the need for balance between touchscreen commands and the positive tactility of physical switches, and buttons are retained for the key mechanical operations of gear selection, drive selection, heating and ventilation.
There’s even override switches for the chassis, ESP and exhaust, lane assist and parking controls. Production of DB12 Volante is due to commence in the coming weeks, with first deliveries scheduled to begin during Q4 2023.
