Driven! The 2026 Aston Martin DBX S More Supercar Than SUV
Less heavy, sharper-performing luxury SUV skips the subtlety.
The shapely Aston Martin DBX is one of the most successful attempts to combine supercar-level performance and presence with SUV practicality. The DBX707, especially, delivers primo power, sound, and driving excitement, while its 2025 update improved usability and comfort. The platform’s compromises—weight, dynamic finesse, and past tech quirks—are outweighed by the fun, drama, and sense that the DBX is more than just a luxury ute that’s fast.
This year, the DBX lineup gains a new crown jewel: the DBX S. The “S” badge signals something special, and this flagship delivers with sharper performance and true exclusivity. Just 3,000 will be built worldwide, and only 1,000 are coming to the U.S. Given that Aston Martin’s lone SUV is already its hottest seller, the 2026 DBX S is bound to sell out fast.
The new variant boosts power over the DBX707, with its Aston Martin–engineered Mercedes-AMG 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 now producing 717 hp (10 more than the 707), while torque stays at 664 lb-ft. It also benefits from lighter components—most notably an optional carbon-fiber roof (Aston’s largest ever panel made from the stuff), available 23-inch magnesium wheels, and other carbon options that can together shed more than 100 pounds.
The DBX S adds sharper steering (the rack is 4 percent quicker), retains the 707’s upgraded air springs and dampers for better body control, and adopts revised tuning for the nine-speed transmission, including more aggressive downshifts in Sport and Sport+ modes.
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Motor Trend Group | Sep 5, 2024
More Serious Fascia
Visually, the DBX S distinguishes itself with model-specific details. Up front, it wears a gloss-black vaned grille, or buyers can opt for a lightweight honeycomb mesh design inspired by the DBS 770 Ultimate. A reshaped front bumper with larger functional corner vents and a new splitter further sharpens looks while improving airflow.
At the rear, the DBX S pairs function with flair. Vertically stacked quad exhaust outlets are pushed to the corners, framing a wider multi-element diffuser. The diffuser, side sills, and rear wing can all be optioned in carbon-fiber, trimming roughly 15 pounds.
Other details underscore the DBX S’ high-end pedigree. Available 23-inch magnesium wheels—the first OEM application of their kind—cut another 42 pounds, although they’ll set you back more than $5,000 a pop (next-level curbing anxiety unlocked).
Handmade S badges add to the exclusivity, being crafted from solid metal, finished in glass enamel with a red “S,” and plated in bright or dark chrome to match the chosen Aston wings. Specify a color like Chimera Blue, and the paint’s metal flakes vanish into a rich, inky finish until direct light brings it alive.
Luxe Inside
Inside, the DBX S strikes the right balance between sport and luxury. Alcantara trim and optional carbon-fiber accents set the tone, while semi-aniline leather, red seat belts, and a new herringbone pattern on the seats—and even the headliner if you spec the carbon roof—drive home the S’ exclusivity.
The atmosphere is rich and inviting, with top-notch materials and build quality throughout. Still, the 10.3-inch touchscreen feels undersized in such a lavish cabin, and the piano-black trim proves both overly reflective and a magnet for fingerprints.
Greatness Plus Behind the Wheel
The easiest way to forget about the fingerprints is to bury the throttle. True to Aston Martin form, the DBX S surges forward with authority. Its size dulls some of the seat-pinning sensation, but the added power and reduced weight should see it eclipse the 3.1-second sprint to 60 mph we measured for the 707. That puts it squarely among segment elites like the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, both capable of sub-three-second runs.
The soundtrack is equally compelling. The revised exhaust ditches the crossover pipe, sending each bank’s flow straight out for a higher-pitched growl. Lift off the throttle and sharp crackles punctuate the note, while the snappier transmission calibration heightens the drama. Even in a straight line, the DBX S channels supercar energy.
Through the corners, the DBX S shrinks around you. The lighter roof and wheels, quicker steering, and recalibrated suspension make it feel more alert than its size suggests. Grip is tenacious, the steering direct, and the chassis eager, with torque vectoring, active anti-roll bars, and adaptive air springs working seamlessly in the background. It’s a blast in the canyons.
The setup strikes a careful balance between control and comfort, though the ride is still firm and tire noise intrudes on rougher surfaces. Braking performance is equally impressive, as massive carbon-ceramic rotors and six-piston calipers provide smooth, confidence-inspiring stopping power.
The DBX S makes speed effortless. On an open stretch of highway, 90 mph arrives almost before you realize it—so best to tread lightly on the throttle in tighter confines. Despite its size, it’s impressive that engineers trimmed the curb weight to less than 5,000 pounds. For those who want fewer electronic interventions, Aston includes a driver assist shutoff to let the SUV run with fewer nannies.
Supercar in SUV Form
The DBX S elevates the brand’s already impressive SUV into rarefied territory. With more power, meaningful weight reductions, and sharper steering and suspension tuning, it delivers performance that brushes shoulders with the best in the class while retaining everyday comfort. Unique design cues, exclusive details, and a richly appointed cabin further cement its flagship status.
Behind the wheel, the DBX S feels every bit the supercar in SUV form. Explosive acceleration, a more dramatic acoustic experience, and agile handling make it as thrilling in a canyon blast as it is on the autobahn. The ride is firm, and some cabin tech feels a bit dated, but the DBX S obliterates those small drawbacks with character, speed, and theater. Exotic, exclusive, and exhilarating, the DBX S is pure Aston Martin at full volume.
Chevrolet Corvette: Car and Driver 2025 10Best Cars
America’s sports car? More like America’s supercar.By Jack FitzgeraldPublished: Dec 3, 2024
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View PhotosMichael Simari|Car and Driver
We don’t need to prattle on recapping the long and storied history of the Chevrolet Corvette—you likely already know all about it. From the early days of the C1, which dates back even further than this magazine, to the current C8 generation, the story of the Corvette has been marked by plenty of highs and lows.
UNMUTE
Today, the Corvette is riding an undeniable, history-making high. After decades of rumors, the decision to pull the trigger and move to a mid-engine configuration for the current-generation Vette was controversial but one that has played out in spectacular fashion for Chevrolet. The Corvette is now on another level.Car and Driver
Part of the magic of this high-performance sports car is how each model in the lineup feels both unique and uniquely Corvette. From the 490-hp Stingray to the first-ever all-wheel-drive Vette in the form of the E-Ray, and right up to the shatteringly quick Z06, each version of the Corvette combines track-scorching capability and explosive acceleration with supple-for-a-supercar ride quality and everyday usability. Even in its base form, the Stingray launches to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds; add two driven wheels and throw a few electrons into the mix, and the E-Ray makes the same pass in 2.5 seconds.
View PhotosMarc Urbano|Car and Driver
The Z06’s base price has risen beyond our $110,000 10Best ceiling, but don’t let our rules limit you. The Corvette remains a joy to drive in every form each and every time you climb over the wide doorsill and settle into the driver’s seat. As senior editor Eric Stafford put it: “Mind-melting acceleration, and yet it’s so controllable. It makes mere mortals feel like Mario Andretti.” Plus, despite the cost of entry increasing by more than $10,000 since the C8 was introduced, the Corvette in all its forms continues to be a remarkable bargain.
Specifications
Chevrolet Corvette Stingray/E-Ray
Base: $69,995–$108,595
Power: 490–655 hp
PERFORMANCE
60 mph: 2.5–3.0 sec
EPA Combined: 19 mpg
Associate News Editor
Jack Fitzgerald’s love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1.
After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn’t afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf.
| 2026 Aston Martin DBX S Specifications | |
| BASE PRICE | $274,500 |
| LAYOUT | Front-engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door SUV |
| ENGINE | 4.0L/717-hp/664-lb-ft twin-turbo direct-injected DOHC 32-valve V-8 |
| TRANSMISSION | 9-speed automatic |
| CURB WEIGHT | 4,850 lb |
| WHEELBASE | 120.5 in |
| L x W x H | 198.4 x 78.7 x 66.1 in |
| 0–60 MPH | 3.1 sec (mfr est) |
| EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON | 15/20/17 mpg (est) |
| EPA RANGE, COMB | 383 miles (est) |
| ON SALE | Q4 2025 |
2025 Aston Martin Lineup: On the Hunt for Ferrari, Lamborghini
The independent brand’s F1 racing efforts have inspired its latest track-ready machinery.Alex LeanseWriter
ManufacturerPhotographerDec 24, 2024
No longer content to be seen as an also-ran against Ferrari and Lamborghini, Aston Martin is undergoing a renaissance. Although it honors its heritage of luxurious touring, the boutique automaker focuses on high performance with its latest vehicles. Aston Martin is rolling out an impressive slate of new and updated vehicles this year. Read on to see if Britain’s best has what it takes to rival the Italian icons.
2025 Aston Martin Vantage: What’s New
Although still based on the Vantage introduced for the 2019 model year, the 2025 Vantage receives a significant update. It looks considerably different thanks to its larger grille, updated headlights, and reshaped aerodynamic elements. The interior is entirely reworked, taking on a modernized layout that combines physical switchgear with upgraded technology, including a new infotainment system developed by Aston Martin. Under the hood, a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 remains, but it’s been retuned for significantly more power and torque. Aston Martin gives the Vantage’s chassis hardware and software some updates, too. All these changes coalesce into a car that looks and drives much better than before.
2025 Aston Martin Vantage: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Even sportier than before
- Hugely improved interior and user interfaces
- Looks great
Cons
- Slightly less comfortable than before
- No more manual transmission
- Compromised outward visibility
2025 Aston Martin DBX707: What’s New
Aston Martin’s mighty SUV gets a slate of changes for 2025. Notably, the DBX is now offered only in high-performance 707 specification; the standard variant has been discontinued. Updated chassis control software gives the 2025 DBX707 improved ride comfort and handling poise. In addition to a variety of new paint and wheel choices, the exterior gains motorized pop-out door handles and frameless side mirrors. Inside, the DBX707 gets a new dashboard and center console layout with Aston Martin’s latest infotainment tech, and there are new upholstery and trim options.
2025 Aston Martin DBX707: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Supercar moves, SUV practicality
- Gorgeous, luxurious interior
- Useful, functional improvements for 2025
Cons
- Not as pretty as other Aston models
- Some slightly laggy user interfaces
- Can’t quite hide its weight
2025 Aston Martin DB12: What’s New
After transforming from the DB11 last year, the DB12 enters 2025 with a few new options. For drivers who are interested in the Volante convertible but aren’t quite sold, a new panoramic glass roof for the hardtop coupe is now available. Carbon-fiber paddle shifters are newly included with the Carbon package. For a stealthy look, gloss black finishing for the exhaust tips is offered. Leather colors for the steering wheel expand with more choices.
2025 Aston Martin DB12: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Elegant yet aggressive exterior styling
- Feels sportier than DB11
- High-touch, high-quality construction
Cons
- Rides much harder than DB11
- Touchscreen location is slightly awkward
- Can’t get it with a V-12 engine
2025 Aston Martin Vanquish: What’s New
The vaunted Vanquish returns to Aston Martin’s lineup for 2025 with a sportier focus than ever before. Its new twin-turbocharged V-12 engine makes stupefying power and torque, and its bespoke platform gives it impressive handling acumen. With its huge grille, sculpted body, and distinctive rear end, the Vanquish looks amazing at any speed. The cabin shows off all of Aston Martin’s latest technology and design features, but the Vanquish is now distinctly a two-seater, rather than the 2+2 arrangement earlier iterations had. The 2025 Vanquish lives up to the Aston Martin V-12 engine in the best ways, able to perform like a suave grand tourer at one moment and a true supercar the next.
2025 Aston Martin Vanquish: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Could be the best-looking new Aston Martin
- Intoxicating V-12 soundtrack and power
- Great balance between comfort and sharpness
Cons
- Automatic transmission can’t quite keep up
- Still waiting for Volante convertible
- Better than Ferrari 12Cilindri?
2025 Aston Martin Valhalla: What’s New
No model indicates Aston Martin’s shift away from luxurious grand touring to hardcore performance more than the new Valhalla. This is a true supercar, with a carbon-fiber chassis and F1-derived aerodynamics. The Valhalla uses an AMG-sourced twin-turbo V-8 engine, which in a break from Aston’s front-engine tradition is notably mid-engined like many exotics. That engine is joined by three electric motors for an AWD PHEV powertrain that produces 1,064 hp. A stripped-down, driver-focused cockpit indicates the Valhalla’s track-ready mission. This is an Aston Martin car like never before and an exciting indicator of the brand’s future direction.
2025 Aston Martin Valhalla: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Promises epic track performance
- Exotic design, features, and materials
- Piercing high-revving V-8 engine note
Cons
- Only 999 to be built
- Short EV driving range
- Can it outdo the Lamborghini Revuelto?
2025 Aston Martin Valkyrie: What’s New
Aston Martin hasn’t announced any changes to the Valkyrie for 2025. If you’re on the list to get this insane hypercar, the automaker will likely build it pretty much any way you want.
2025 Aston Martin Valkyrie: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Mind-boggling performance potential
- Turns heads like nothing else
- V-12 engine revs to over 10,000 rpm
Cons
- Challenging ingress and egress to cabin
- Requires pro driver skill levels
- V-12 engine is uncomfortably loud
2025 Aston Martin Valour: What’s New
Only 110 copies of the radical Aston Martin Valour will be produced. Some of those may be 2025 models, but the year doesn’t matter as much for this timeless collector’s item even compared to other Aston Martins.
2025 Aston Martin Valour: Pros and Cons
Pros
- V-12 engine meets manual transmission
- Focuses on real driver engagement
- Deep personalization potential
Cons
- Lacks Aston Martin’s newest infotainment
- Design is rather unconventional
- You probably aren’t invited to buy one
2025 Aston Martin Valiant: What’s New
Unless you’re an Aston Martin Formula 1 driver, it might be tricky to secure an allocation for a Valiant. Only 38 copies of this wild stickshift V-12 supercar will be produced.
2025 Aston Martin Valiant: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Perpetually cool
- Idyllic powertrain layout
- The brainchild of Fernando Alonso
Cons
- Thought the Valour was hard to get?
- Strange hubcap-like wheel covers
- Only one cupholder
2025 Aston Martin Cars and SUVs:
- 2025 Aston Martin Vantage: Redesigned
- 2025 Aston Martin DBX: Significant update
- 2025 Aston Martin DB12: Mostly unchanged
- 2025 Aston Martin Vanquish: All-new model
- 2025 Aston Martin Valhalla: All-new model
