The SUV from Aston Martin has a new version that is the most potent one to date. The AMG-borrowed 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine is upgraded in the DBX S to produce 707 horsepower (717 bhp) and 664 lb-ft of torque. Turbo technology taken straight from the impending Valhalla supercar is responsible for the power boost. More push is produced at the top of the rpm range by “other internal improvements” and larger compressor wheels. The nine-speed wet-clutch automatic transmission is still used by the new top-dog DBX, but downshifts in Sport and Sport+ modes are now more forceful, while shift points in auto mode have been adjusted to better accommodate the “extended rev range.” Although the performance numbers aren’t much that different from the 707 on paper in fact, the car’s 3.1-second 0-60 time and 193-mph top speed are the same as those of the DBX the S is probably a more thrilling experience in person and on the track. With lightweight choices, the S can weigh over 104 pounds less than the 707, which will still be available. The ride and steering feel are improved by the optional 23-inch magnesium wheels, which are reportedly a first for any production SUV and reduce over 42 pounds of unsprung weight (23-inch forged aluminum wheels are standard). The largest carbon component yet installed on an Aston is a single-weave carbon fiber roof, which reduces the weight of the vehicle by about 40 pounds at its highest position. Additionally, a lightweight polycarbonate front grille is an optional feature that undoubtedly reduces weight. In addition to being a more responsive horse, the DBX S’s 4% faster steering ratio also reduces the turning radius by 1.6 feet. It seems that the V8 sounds even better with a modified exhaust that has vertical (!) stacked quad tips. However, the S’s most noticeable improvements might only be aesthetic. With red trim lifted directly from the Honda Type R/Hyundai N playbooks and massive 23-inch wheels with a design that wouldn’t look out of place on, say, a GTI Golf that has been customized with endless funds, Aston has given its SUV an unusually hooliganic, almost hot hatch-like appearance. If you don’t like the red lipstick, those trim pieces can be finished in silver or green. I don’t mind it because I’m a dweeb with no sense of style. The DBX S’s interior features leather and Alcantara surfaces, along with seats that have a tasteful herringbone design. In what the business claims is a first for the industry, the Aston Martin emblems have reportedly been embossed and debossed onto the headrests using 1.6 tons of pressure.
