Aston Martin has revealed that its upcoming DBX SUV will use a 550hp, 516lb ft version of AMG’s 4.0-litre, and - somewhat surprisingly – has suggested that it will put many of its existing models to shame dynamically. Along with its new title of Aston’s most potent V8 model, the marque claims the DBX will deliver “cornering speeds on par with… the Vantage” and “braking figures greater than the DBS Superleggera”. Claims which are impressive for a taller, likely heavier model.
While we’re short of further technical details for now, Aston’s comments suggest the DBX may not be as hefty as expected. The V12-engined DBS Superleggera weighs 1.7 tonnes; could the DBX’s apparent athleticism be courtesy of a similar kerbweight, helped in part by its lighter motor? Images released by the brand don’t suggest any significant brake or tyre advantage, so the car Aston has officially spent the longest period of time developing may well achieve its claims thanks to chassis-based wizardry. The segment standard comprises air suspension and anti-roll tech, which we’d expect here in a sporting state of tune.
Whatever is going on underneath the DBX, Aston is unsurprisingly keen to emphasise that it is not simply producing a quick SUV but rather an engaging driver's car. Such a pledge is almost par for the course these days - Alfa made pretty much the same statement with the Stelvio QF - and further claims from Aston that the DBX has repeatedly surpassed 180mph in testing only adds to the expectation. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo, for example, runs out of puff at 177mph. And things may get faster still when additional variants arrive in the near future.
In a segment where big numbers matter, this stuff is key. But unlike other premium brands selling SUVs, Aston is not expected to send its output skyrocketing. It expects to produce just 4,000 DBXs per year at its new St Athan site by 2023, with CEO Andy Palmer revealing in June that the site won't build any more than 5,000 per annum to protect Aston's premium image. Whatever the volume, the firm could certainly use a sales triumph. We'll have a better idea of its outlook when the covers officially come off the new DBX in December.
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