Aston Martin, renowned for its sports cars, has officially introduced three new high-performance 'S' lineup models in Korea, delivering up to 727 horsepower. Expanding its portfolio to include sports cars, SUVs (multi-purpose sports vehicles), and grand tourers optimized for long-distance driving, the brand is intensifying its push into South Korea's luxury automotive market.
Britannia Auto, Aston Martin's official importer in Korea, held an event at its Seoul showroom on the 24th to unveil the 'S Range,' featuring the DB12 S, Vantage S, and DBX S. Attendees included Neil Hughes, Head of Product Management at Aston Martin's headquarters, and Karl Bailey, President for Asia-Pacific and Greater China.
The 'S' designation refers to high-performance variants that retain the core characteristics of existing models while enhancing engine output, responsiveness, chassis dynamics, aerodynamic performance, and weight reduction. All three models unveiled today are equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine, with driving performance and design tailored to each model's specific attributes.
The SUV DBX S delivers peak power of 727 horsepower and maximum torque of 900 Nm. It offers 20 more horsepower than the previous DBX707 and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds. Its top speed reaches 310 km/h.
Opting for weight-saving specifications can reduce the vehicle's curb weight by up to 47 kg compared to standard models. A carbon fiber roof saves approximately 18 kg, while 23-inch magnesium wheels contribute an additional 19 kg reduction. Lowering the center of gravity and reducing mass around the wheels and suspension improves steering response and driving agility.
The DB12 S, emphasizing long-distance performance, generates peak power of 700 horsepower and maximum torque of 800 Nm—20 horsepower more than the standard DB12. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 325 km/h.
The eight-speed automatic transmission reduces shift time by 43% compared to previous models, completing gear changes in just 0.12 seconds. Standard carbon ceramic brakes enhance braking performance while reducing unsprung weight by 27 kg. Key features include re-tuned electronic differentials and suspension systems that significantly improve cornering capability.
The Vantage S is a sports car delivering 680 horsepower, an increase of 15 horsepower over the previous model. It produces maximum torque of 800 Nm and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. With a front-to-rear weight distribution balanced at 50:50 and a rear subframe directly connected to the chassis, torsional rigidity has been improved by 5%. At top speed, the rear spoiler generates an additional downforce of 44 kg.
Hughes cited weight reduction and customer demand as key reasons for focusing on internal combustion performance rather than electrification. He stated, "Plug-in hybrids increase vehicle weight by an average of over 200 kg due to batteries, motors, and charging systems," emphasizing that "reducing vehicle weight offers significantly greater benefits for customers' driving experience and performance." He added, "When we ask customers what kind of car they want, the answer is rarely a plug-in hybrid. While other models utilize hybrid technology to enhance performance, the S lineup focuses exclusively on sharpening the unique driving dynamics inherent to internal combustion engines."
Bailey remarked, "Korean customers have high discernment regarding luxury and high-performance vehicles." He further noted, "Korea is a market with immense growth potential in the Asia-Pacific region. Through new models, we aim to expand brand experiences and deepen customer engagement."
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