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V8 advantage – Aston Martin launches 'more affordable' V8 DB11 grand tourer

The beautiful Aston Martin DB11 is now available with a smaller V8 engine, which reduces the price – and the performance - Photographer - Max Earey
The beautiful Aston Martin DB11 is now available with a smaller V8 engine, which reduces the price – and the performance - Photographer - Max Earey

The Aston Martin DB11 – a car we’re already exceptionally fond of – has received a new V8 engine courtesy of Daimler AG.

The DB11 launched with a 5.2-litre V12, a 600bhp engine that propels this luxurious grand tourer to 62mph in 3.9 seconds, and keeps it accelerating past 200mph. The new, smaller 4.-litre twin-turbo V8 is a little slower, with a 0-62mph time of 4 seconds exactly and a top speed of just 187mph.

Both engines will be available to buyers of the DB11, with the smaller V8 priced at a relatively affordable £144,900 compared to the V12’s £157,900 – a saving of £12,000.

V8 advantage – Aston Martin unveils cheaper, lighter version of its DB11 grand tourer
V8 advantage – Aston Martin unveils cheaper, lighter version of its DB11 grand tourer

This is the first Aston Martin to receive an engine from German ‘technical partners’ Daimler AG. This Stuttgart-based giant is one of the largest businesses in the industry, being the biggest truck manufacturer in the world by unit sales, and one of the top car makers. It owns (among others) Mercedes and Smart.

Aston Martin says that the new “light, characterful” V8 engine gives the DB11 an “increased sense of agility” thanks to the adjusted centre of mass, as well as suspension revisions and modifications to the ESP software. The engine is lighter than the V12, resulting in an overall kerb weight of 1,760kg – down 115kg compared to the existing car.

Aston Martin DB11 V8 - Credit: Max Earey 
The DB11 is an exceptionally pretty car from every angle Credit: Max Earey

Aesthetically the differences are small – the alloys are new, there are dark headlight bezels and half as many bonnet vents – which means that the stunning good looks of the DB11 are largely intact.

“Of course the V12-engined variant is an icon – an ultimate, if you like, but the V8 is very much its own car,” said Aston Martin Chief Technical Officer, Max Szwaj.

Aston Martin DB11 V8 - Credit: Max Earey 
Note the two bonnet vents, rather than the four found on the V12 version Credit: Max Earey

“It has been hugely rewarding to put our stamp on this new engine – both in the way it sounds and performs – and to use its impressive attributes as the impetus to reveal a little more of the DB11’s sporting character. To be able to offer not one, but two exceptional GT cars is terrific for Aston Martin and our customers.”

Aston Martin President and CEO, Dr Andy Palmer, said: “The DB11 is the most complete and sophisticated car Aston Martin has ever made. Now, with this new V8 engine option we have broadened its appeal by offering a car that’s more affordable while still blessed with the exceptional performance and memorable character that sets Aston Martin apart from its rivals.

James Bond's brands
James Bond's brands

“I’m particularly proud that this car is the first to receive an engine supplied by our technical partner, Daimler AG. Not least because thanks to the nature of our relationship we have been given complete freedom to tailor this exceptional power unit so that it meets the particular needs and demands of an Aston Martin.”

We can’t wait to find out the DB11 sounds like with its new German accent. Aston Martin tells us it will be showing off its new engine on the Hillclimb at the Festival of Speed this weekend.

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