In the game of luxury performance cars, it’s all about one-upmanship and Aston Martin has boldly attempted that step by christening its new Aston Martin DB12 as the world’s first Super Tourer. That’s right, Grand Tourer’s are just too passe these days.

The announcement comes as Aston Martin celebrates two significant milestones in 2023; its monumental 110th anniversary and 75 years of the illustrious DB model line.

However, despite the 12 in its model name, the DB12 doesn’t feature the illustrious carmaker’s V12 engine under the hood. Instead, you’ll find a hand-built 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 dishing out a brutish 680 PS and 800 Nm of torque.

That’s 34 percent more power over the DB11, making it good for a 0-100 kph time of 3.5-seconds and a top speed of 325 kph.

Also Read: Bred to lead in F1 and on the road - 2023 Aston Martin F1 Edition now launched in Malaysia

Engineers in Gaydon achieved the higher outputs with modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger diameter turbochargers and increased cooling. Centrally mounted bonnet vents placed above the twin turbos allow hot air to escape.

All that power feeds the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission that features an Aston Martin first for its DB line in the shape of an electronic rear differential (e-diff).

The stability control system employs six-axis inertia measurement to predict available grip and alter the 5 pre-set driving modes (GT, Sport, Sport+, Wet and Individual) to suit the driver’s preferences.

Torsional rigidity has also increased by 7 percent with reinforcements in key points of the bonded aluminium structure. This allows the adaptive dampers to facilitate a far broader range of control and refinement.

Also Read: 007's family car, the Aston Martin DBX is the perfect performance SUV

As the primary point of contact between car and driver, careful attention has been paid to perfecting the DB12’s Electronic Power Assisted Steering system (EPAS), led by the fitment of a non-isolated steering column to deliver better feedback.

Bringing everything to a halt are the cast-iron 400 mm front discs and 360 mm rear discs with grooved and drilled faces for improved thermal capacity. Optionally, you can splurge for the Carbon Ceramic Brake (CCB) option that offers better braking and saves 27kg in unsprung mass.

A further feather in its distinguished hat comes in the form of Aston Martin being the first OEM application of the new Michelin Pilot Sport 5s tyres. Not settling for off-the-shelf versions, the DB12’s tyres are marked with ‘AML’ codes, signifying the bespoke compound tuned by the Aston Martin dynamics team.

The Michelin rubbers wrap 21-inch wheels that can be had in three different designs and finishes.

Styling is distinctively Aston Martin, best described as a brute in a perfectly fitted suit. Track length has increased by 6 mm at the front and 22 mm at the rear with an all-new front-end that features a larger, reshaped radiator aperture and a reshaped splitter.

Most importantly, sitting proudly on the nose is the latest evolution of the iconic Aston Martin wings badge. Symbolising the start of an exciting new era, the DB12 is the first sports car to which the new wings have been applied.

The cabin is a definition of ultra luxurious craftsmanship, as is a given for any of Gaydon’s vehicles. Occupants sit below the shoulder line with a high centre console, allowing complete engagement with the ultra-luxurious cockpit and bespoke infotainment system linked to the surround sound system by Bowers & Wilkins.

Infotainment now supports Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay in a fully integrated multi-screen system and displayed on the 10.25-inch primary screen.

Cornerstones of the DB12’s new infotainment system are online connectivity and an all-new Aston Martin App, allowing DB12 owners to communicate, interact and engage with their car.

Online connectivity will assist the ownership experience through increased ease of use and peace of mind, offering Over The Air (OTA) updates and diagnostics.

Personalised content specific to their vehicle is presented in screens that seamlessly match the new UI/UX of the infotainment system. From the app, customers can monitor, locate and protect their vehicle, send navigation POI’s or be guided on foot with last mile navigation.