Aston Martin stunned the crowd at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show when they unveiled the new DB11. This is the 10th in the brand's long running signature that started in 1948 with the DB1 (since there was no DB8).
It took three years for the design team headed by Marek Reichman to release the new Bond vehicle, and thirteen years since the DB9 first graced the world. They started with a list of everything they wanted to address with the next flagship, then included feedback from customers, journalists - and didn't cross anything off.
It's a little bit daunting," said Ian Minards, Director of Product Development. "There's a lot to live up to and it's flippin important."
There is no imbalance with form and function as Aston Martin successfully merged both with the patented Aeroblade design of the DB11. It maximizes airflow around the aluminum body to increase downward pressure on the vehicle, resulting in a sleek aesthetic. At speeds above 151 km/h, a 1.8" flap would appear on the trunk edge for added downforce. A redesigned head and tail LED light units complement the body lines, with the front utilizing a daylight running light while the rear has a boomerang-esque shape for a futuristic look.
At its core, the DB11 has a 5.2-liter V12 engine with twin-scroll turbochargers capable of 600 hp and 700 Nm of torque. The rear wheels push out the vehicle via 8-speed automatic transmission with limited-slip differential, going 0-100 km/h at 3.9 seconds and tops at 322 km/h.
A smooth ride is ensured by an Adaptive Damping System implemented in the suspension, accomplished by BIlstein units while Brembo took care of the brakes that uses torque vectoring system to improve agility. Electronic steering has a 13:1 ratio powered by a Bosch system.
Selectable driving modes - GT, Sport and Sport Plus - modify the engine response, gear changes, steering and damping - which can be controlled on the steering wheel itself.
Getting inside is no work as it features a bigger door opening and a bit more legroom, as the front wheels are pushed forward by an inch. The instrument panel can be seen via 12" TFT central display, while the driver's binnacle are now also digital. A wide-array of options are available for the handmade interior, including a Bang & Olufsen BeoSound system.
CEO Andy Palmer said the DB11 is "not only the most important car that Aston Martin has launched in recent history, but also in its 103-year existence." He's emphasizing that by signing off each car with his signature engraved on the door kick plate. Hopefully a few end up in their BGC, Taguig showroom.
For more information about Aston Martin and their local lineup, check out the AutoDeal Car Guide.
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