Aston Martin DB12 Volante: A Convertible Beauty with 671-Hp V8

author: FutureCar Staff    

Aston Martin has unveiled the convertible variant of the DB12, showcasing their expertise in crafting stylish convertibles. The DB12 Volante, which arrives three months after the coupe version, features a redesigned face and an overhauled interior with new technology.

The Aston Martin DB12 Volante retains the hallmark fabric reclining roof of its predecessors, offering enthusiasts the joy of open-air driving. With the roof stored beneath the hard tonneau cover, the convertible boasts captivating proportions, emphasizing the beautiful materials of the cabin and the sleek tail.

The electrically-operated fabric roof opens in 14 seconds and closes in 16 seconds, even at speeds of up to 50 km/h (31 mph). The folding process results in a stack height of 260 mm, which doesn't compromise the cargo capacity. Aston Martin has enhanced the roof acoustically, incorporating 8 layers of insulation to ensure a quiet ride.

The standard roof color of the DB12 Volante is black, but it can be optionally customized in red, blue, or "black and silver" to create different combinations with the exterior shades and interior upholstery options. The Volante's seatbacks offer wood veneer and carbon fiber panels, matching the door trim inlay. For further personalization, owners can explore the Q by Aston Martin division for an additional charge.

The interior of the DB12 Volante features Aston Martin's next-gen in-house developed infotainment system, which offers the latest connectivity features. Integrated within a 10.25-inch Pure Black touchscreen, the system is connected to Bowers & Wilkins audio systems, available with either 11 speakers (390 Watt) as standard or 15 speakers (1,170 Watt) as an option.

Similar to the DB12 Coupe, the Volante is equipped with an AMG-sourced twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine, producing 671 hp (500 kW / 680 PS) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. Power is transmitted to the rear axle through an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, assisted by an electronic rear differential (E-Diff).

The convertible GT achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in 3.7 seconds, only 0.1 seconds slower than the coupe, and matches the top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph) achieved by its hardtop counterpart. Aston Martin plans to introduce a plug-in hybrid option in the future, which is expected to deliver even better power and performance compared to the non-electrified V8.

The DB12 Volante features an upgraded bonded aluminum structure compared to the DB11, resulting in a 5% increase in torsional stiffness. The convertible-specific setup of the new adaptive dampers and rear spring rates further enhance the performance and handling of the Volante. According to Roberto Fedeli, Aston Martin's Chief Technical Officer, the DB12 Volante offers "class-leading performance and handling" and is no longer seen as "the softer option" in the range.

Behind the standard 21-inch forged alloy wheels with bespoke Michelin Pilot S 5 tires, the DB12 Volante is equipped with standard cast-iron discs measuring 400 mm (15.8 inches) at the front and 360 mm (14.2 inches) at the rear. Optional carbon ceramic brakes are available, reducing fade and decreasing the unsprung mass by 27 kg (60 lbs).

The Aston Martin DB12 Volante will make its public debut at The Quail as part of the Monterey Car Week in California. Production is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2023, with the first deliveries expected in the fourth quarter.

FutureCar Staff