Aston Martin DB12 Volante Seduces with 671-Hp V8

author: FutureCar Staff    

Aston Martin has introduced the convertible version of the DB12, following the release of the hardtop model. The DB12 Volante showcases Aston Martin's expertise in crafting stylish convertibles. It comes three months after the coupe variant and features a redesigned face and an updated interior with new technology.

The Aston Martin DB12 Volante maintains the signature fabric reclining roof of its predecessors. When the roof is stored beneath the hard tonneau cover, the convertible has even more appealing proportions than the coupe, highlighting the beautiful materials of the cabin and accentuating its 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 is done in two stages, resulting in a stack height of 260 mm that doesn't compromise cargo capacity. Aston Martin claims that the roof has been acoustically enhanced with 8 layers of insulation, challenging the belief that convertibles are not as quiet as coupes.

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

The interior of the DB12 Volante is highlighted by Aston Martin's next-generation in-house developed infotainment system. It is integrated into a new 10.25-inch Pure Black touchscreen and 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, generating 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 DB12 Volante achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in 3.7 seconds, just 0.1 seconds slower than the coupe, and reaches a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph), matching its hardtop counterpart. In the future, a plug-in hybrid option is expected to offer even more 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 has specific adaptive dampers and rear spring rates for optimal performance and handling. According to Roberto Fedeli, Aston Martin's Chief Technical Officer, the DB12 Volante offers "class-leading performance and handling" and is no longer positioned as "the softer option" in the range.

The standard 21-inch forged alloy wheels of the DB12 Volante are paired with bespoke Michelin Pilot S 5 tires. It comes with standard 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 the unsprung mass by 27 kg (60 lbs).

The Aston Martin DB12 Volante will make its public debut at The Quail during 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