Summary
There are certain things in life that not everyone will experience, and driving an Aston Martin is one of them. Dodge, Ford, and Chevy have brought high horsepower to the masses by stuffing big engines in their SUVs and trucks, which is nothing like the experience of driving an Aston Martin DB11. While the standard 528-hp twin-turbo V-8 is thrilling, the mighty 630-hp twin-turbo V-12 coupe is an even grander tourist. Both engines sing a beautiful soundtrack and are paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission that drives the rear wheels. The DB11 shot the quarter mile in just 11.7 seconds and sounded great doing it. The DB11 delivers performance without sacrificing comfort. Its bonded and glued aluminum chassis features suspension that doesn’t break gears even in the harshest settings. A stitched upholstery pattern and rich leather add to the DB11 experience. While its infotainment screen is small and dated, the DB11’s striking design and exclusivity never goes out of style.
What’s New for 2023?
Not much has changed on the 2023 Aston Martin DB11. The new 21-inch wheel option of the Vantage F1 Edition is now available, saving about 33 pounds of unsprung weight across all four wheels. These lightweight wheels come standard with Pirelli P Zero tires.
Price and Which One to Buy
We think the convertible model, called the Volante, is the ultimate DB11 experience. Unfortunately, those wanting the added character of the V-12 engine will be disappointed to find that the drop-top is only sold with the V-8. After selecting paint colors, exterior trim, interior preferences, we’ll add a Bang & Olufsen audio system and touch panel controls for the infotainment system. The only other additions we’d recommend are a heated steering wheel and blind spot monitoring.
Engine, Transmission and Performance
The DB11 offers two engine options: a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 or a 5.2-liter twin-turbocharged V-12. The former develops 528 horsepower and 513 pound-feet of torque while the latter produces 630 bangs and 516 pound-feet. Both are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends all that torque to the rear wheels. We have tested a detuned, 600-hp version of the V-12 DB11, which indicates serious speed. Recently, we drove a V-12 powered DB11 in northern Germany and enjoys its massive thrust, athletic movement and equally melodious and menacing exhaust tone. We also experienced the V-8 model. The DB11 Coupe proves that an eight-cylinder can about as fast and sounding as badass as the V-12. As well, the DB11 Volante droptop we drove is an amazing way to experience the south of France. While not available with the V-12, luckily the Volante didn’t sacrifice performance.
Real World Fuel and MPG Savings
With the powerful V-8 and V-12 engines, fuel economy was clearly a low priority for the DB11. Still, the V-8 produces a respectable 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The 12-cylinder alternative is less economical, rated at 15 mpg city and 22 mpg on the highway. In comparison, the W-12 is powerful Bentley Continental GT even less efficient, 12 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. We haven’t had a chance to test any DB11s on our fuel-efficient 75 mph route—part of our extensive testing regimen. For more information on the DB11’s fuel economy, visit EPA website.
Interior, Comfort and Cargo
The inside of every DB11 is luxurious and can be customized with a variety of exotic colors and materials. We’ve noticed some inconsistent paneling and switchgear that feels ridiculously cheap. However, these problems are small compared to the amazing and thrilling experience of driving this car. Each model features leather upholstery, heated and power-adjustable front seats and passive entry. Heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats are offered. There isn’t much room inside the DB11 for storing small items other than the center console bay, which slides open to reveal a handy cup holder and tray.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Derived from Mercedes-Benz, the infotainment system provides user-friendly controls and an attractive menu. You select items on the deceptively small 8.0-inch display via the standard rotary controller or the optional touchpad on the center console. Along with a 400-watt audio system and SiriusXM satellite radio, Aston gives each DB11 a Wi-Fi hotspot. Buyers can upgrade to a 700-watt sound system or a 1000-watt Bang & Olufsen unit.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Those who are interested driver assistance technology can add blind spot monitoring software and parking assist. For more information on the results of the DB11 crash test, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) website. Key safety features include:
- Standard 360 degree camera system
- Standard front and rear parking sensors
- A self parking feature is available
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Aston Martin provides a limited warranty and a powertrain that is on par with what other high-end automakers offer. However, unlike its competition, Aston does not include any maintenance visits in its coverage.
- The limited warranty covers three years and unlimited miles
- The powertrain warranty covers three years and unlimited miles
- No free scheduled maintenance
Specification
Specification
2020 Aston Martin DB11 AMR
TRANSPORTATION TYPE
front engine, rear wheel drive, 2+2 passengers, 2 door coupe
BASIC PRICE
$248,986
MACHINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and DOHC 48-valve V-12 intercooler, aluminum block and head, port fuel injection
Transfer
318 in35204 cm3
Power
630 hp @ 6500 rpm
torque
516 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm
TRANSMISSION
8 speed automatic
SIZE
Wheelbase: 110.4 inches
Length: 187.0 inches
Width: 76.8 inches
Height: 50.8 inches
Passenger volume: 77 feet3
Luggage volume: 10 feet3
Limiting weight (CD estimate): £4200
SHOW (CD EST)
60 mph: 3.4 seconds
100 mph: 7.6 seconds
¼ mile: 11.5 sec
Top speed: 208 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 18/15/22 mpg
More Features and Specifications
