New Aston Martin DB11 V8 Review

13th Oct 2017

The Aston Martin DB11 was first introduced in 2016 and is the most powerful Aston Martin 'DB' model ever created. This is thanks to a glorious 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, developing a colossal 600bhp; meaning 62mph is dealt with in just 3.9 seconds and sees the DB11 V12 go onto a top speed of 200mph. Dubbed 'the ultimate grand tourer', the DB11 ensures both driver and passengers can experience all of this incredible performance, complemented by superb ride quality and surrounded by the finest materials and latest technology, all of which exists to enhance the overall sense of occasion.

Throughout the Aston Martin range you'll find many V8 and V12 versions of a singular model are available. Therefore, it was perhaps always likely that a V8 DB11 was always going to be produced, and in 2017, the DB11 V8 was born. At first glance, it looks almost identical to the V12. The V8 still has the distinct clamshell bonnet, beautiful lines and the trademark Aston Martin DNA, accompanied by an interior finished with the finest leather and craftmanship. However, the DB11 V8 has its very own details which distinguish it from its V12 counterpart. Let's take a look at what sets them apart.

Aston Martin DB11 V8 Performance

With 4 fewer cylinders, the DB11 V8 still packs a serious V8 punch with 503bhp available from its twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This means the DB11 V8 is only a tenth of a second slower to 62mph than the V12, and can hit a top speed of 187mph. Aston Martin have deployed a number of simple yet effective measures to ensure the V8 model is just as entertaining to drive as the V12, all the while developing a slightly different character. Of course, the V8 is still an impressive grand tourer, yet Aston Martin have ensured the DB11 V8 still has a dynamic and agile mantra, partly due to the car's lower weight. The lightweight engine contributes to an overall kerb weight that has dropped by 115kg.

Aston Martin have also mounted the V8 engine as low as possible, giving the DB11 V8 a lower centre-of-gravity which again helps to deliver a car with excellent dynamics and an enthralling driving experience.

Aston Martin DB11 V8 Interior

Inside, the new DB11 V8 features the same 2+2 layout as found in the DB11 V12. Exquisite leather and beautifully finished materials ensure the interior is as luxurious as it gets. The DB11 V8 interior also benefits from improved technology, boasting a fully digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment. The interior also includes heated memory electric front seats, parking sensors, keyless entry and start, sat-nav, DAB, Bluetooth and a bird's eye view camera.

Aston Martin DB11 V8 and V12 Differences

Although almost identical, there are a few ways to tell the V8 and V12 apart. From the front of the car, you'll notice that the headlight bezels of the V8 are darker and the bonnet only has two vents, half that of the V12. Moving around to the side of the DB11 V8, there are unique-design 20-inch alloy wheels finished in graphite. Finally, and perhaps the most noticeable visual change is the "ASTON MARTIN" lettering underneath the famous Aston Martin wings badge on the rear of the car.