Aston Martin DB12 Volante: A Powerful Convertible

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【Summary】Aston Martin has unveiled the convertible variant of the DB12, featuring a V8 engine derived from Mercedes-AMG. The DB12 Volante retains the fabric reclining roof and offers a redesigned face and updated interior. The convertible has a 14-second opening and 16-second closing time for the roof, with enhanced acoustic insulation. The interior includes next-gen infotainment and customizable options. The Volante is equipped with a twin-turbo 4.

FutureCar Staff Aug 15, 2023 4:35 PM PT

Aston Martin DB12 Volante: A Powerful Convertible

Aston Martin has introduced the convertible version of its hardtop DB12, following the release of the coupe model. The DB12 Volante, known for its stylish design, features a V8 engine derived from Mercedes-AMG and offers a redesigned face and an updated interior with new technology.

The Aston Martin DB12 Volante is designed for open-air driving enthusiasts and maintains the fabric reclining roof that is a hallmark of its predecessors. With the roof stored beneath the hard tonneau cover, the convertible showcases the beautiful materials of the cabin and highlights its sleek tail.

The electrically-operated fabric roof can be opened in 14 seconds and closed in 16 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h (31 mph). The folding process is done in two stages, resulting in a stack height of 260 mm that does not compromise cargo capacity. Aston Martin has enhanced the roof's acoustics with 8 layers of insulation, dispelling the notion that convertibles are noisier than coupes.

The standard roof color is black, but it is also available in red, blue, and "black and silver" for additional personalization. The Volante's seatbacks can be customized with wood veneer and carbon fiber panels, matching the door trim inlay. Owners can further personalize their DB12 Volante through the Q by Aston Martin division for an extra charge.

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

Like its coupe counterpart, the DB12 Volante is powered by 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. It is paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission and an electronic rear differential (E-Diff).

The convertible GT has an acceleration time of 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.7 seconds, just 0.1 seconds slower than the coupe, and achieves a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph). Aston Martin plans to introduce a plug-in hybrid option in the future for improved power and performance compared to the non-electrified V8.

The DB12 Volante features a bonded aluminum structure, which is an upgraded version of the one used in the DB11. It boasts a 5% increase in torsional stiffness compared to the coupe. The convertible also has adaptive dampers and rear spring rates specifically tuned for its design, offering class-leading performance and handling.

The Aston Martin DB12 Volante comes with standard 21-inch forged alloy wheels and Michelin Pilot S 5 tires. It is equipped with cast-iron discs measuring 400 mm (15.8 inches) at the front and 360 mm (14.2 inches) at the rear. Carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option, reducing fade and decreasing unsprung mass by 27 kg (60 lbs).

The DB12 Volante will make its public debut at The Quail during the Monterey Car Week in California. Production is set to begin in the third quarter of 2023, with deliveries expected in the fourth quarter.