Aston Martin previews new DBX flagship
'The world's most powerful luxury SUV' is coming next month
One day not far in the future, we'll probably look back on this era of supersized, super-powerful, combustion-engined SUVs with a sense of awe. They've never made an awful lot of sense, but nobody can deny the popularity - or the fact that some have been extraordinary cars. From Alpina XB7 to Dodge Durango Hellcat and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT to VW T-Roc R, they really do now come in all shapes and sizes.
The Aston Martin DBX has been well received in the luxury segment, not least for the way it drives. However, it's been made to look underpowered if anything, showing just how bizarre the current situation is. With 550hp from the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, it's capable of 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds and 181mph. But that's almost 100hp down on both the Cayenne Turbo GT and Urus; the Alpina makes 621hp, both Audi RSQ8 and AMG GLE also have power outputs starting with a '6' - even the outgoing Range Rover Sport SVR nudged ahead with 575hp. And in the world of the super SUV, power matters.
Consequently, Aston Martin has confirmed via YouTube that it will reveal a new DBX - 'the world's most powerful luxury SUV', no less, in February. The word 'luxury' implies it maybe won't match the Lamborghini or Porsche, but a power figure in the region of 600hp seems eminently achievable. Not least because of what the engine has generated in various AMGs: anything up to 639hp in AMG GT 4-door, and 612hp in the GLE and GLS SUVs. Either way, we can expect a healthy increase in output over the current model.
This preview video doesn't give much away, of course. We can hear a V8 rev and there are some glimpses of some new wheels and a bit of carbon, albeit nothing substantial. 'Power talks', says Aston Martin, and nothing demonstrates that quite like the current uber SUV market. The debut for whatever this DBX will be called - an AMR perhaps - is set for two weeks today.
Why? Why is a powerful luxury SUV any less sensical to a large powerful saloon or estate car, which seemingly does make sense on PH?
Most of all that has been overcome these days though. Modern 48V anti-roll systems, hybrid assist, better aerodynamics etc.
Why? Why is a powerful luxury SUV any less sensical to a large powerful saloon or estate car, which seemingly does make sense on PH?
Most of all that has been overcome these days though. Modern 48V anti-roll systems, hybrid assist, better aerodynamics etc.
They most certainly can be more practical than an estate.
Are others seeing many about, relative to their competition?
Or is this just another knob waving exercise in who can produce the most stupidly powerful SUV?
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