Aston Martin has taken the wraps off its most powerful non-electrified SUV yet — the DBX S. Sitting at the top of the DBX range, this new variant boasts a staggering 727hp, outmuscling even the 725hp Ferrari Purosangue. This also marks the first time the revered “S” badge — traditionally reserved for Aston Martin’s high-performance supercars — has been applied to an SUV.
Performance and Powertrain: More Than Just Extra Horses
At its heart lies the same 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine found in the DBX 707, but it’s been significantly enhanced. Larger compressor wheels, borrowed from the Valhalla supercar, and fine-tuning at the higher revs give the DBX S a sharper edge. The result is a 20hp bump in peak power, while torque holds steady at 900Nm.
Although the 0-100kph sprint time remains unchanged at 3.3 seconds, the DBX S cuts 0.3 seconds off the 0-200kph dash, highlighting its improved top-end urgency. The 9-speed wet-clutch automatic transmission has also been recalibrated to deliver faster, more aggressive gear changes, especially in Sport and Sport+ modes.
Handling and Dynamics: Sharper Steering, Tighter Turns
Further enhancing driving engagement, the DBX S features a 4% quicker steering ratio and a turning circle reduced by almost half a metre. The exhaust system has been reworked as well, delivering a more visceral soundtrack to match the car’s high-performance character. The variable all-wheel-drive setup from the DBX 707 carries over.
Weight Reduction: Subtle Yet Significant
Aston Martin has trimmed 47kg from the DBX 707’s weight, bringing the kerb figure down to 2,198kg. A major contributor to this is the optional carbon fibre roof — minus roof rails — which saves 18kg and lowers the vehicle’s centre of gravity. Lightweight 23-inch magnesium alloy wheels cut another 19kg, while a new polycarbonate honeycomb grille adds to the efficiency drive.
Design and Interior: Aggression With Elegance
The DBX S also receives a host of cosmetic enhancements to set it apart. A newly designed black grille inspired by the DBS 770 Ultimate, a sharper front splitter, and updated side sills contribute to its aggressive styling. At the rear, vertically stacked twin exhaust outlets replace the horizontal ones found on the 707, alongside a redesigned diffuser.
Inside, the SUV sports an exclusive S-specific cabin design. A herringbone pattern adorns the seats and, when the carbon roof is chosen, extends to the headliner. Standard upholstery is Alcantara, with options for semi-aniline leather and contrasting red seatbelts. Audiophiles can opt for a premium 23-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system.
Rivals and Positioning
The DBX S lines up against elite performance SUVs such as the Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne Turbo, and Ferrari Purosangue. Despite being more powerful than the naturally aspirated V12-powered Ferrari, it trails electrified rivals like the 739hp Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid and 800hp Urus SE.
Nonetheless, with its blend of raw V8 power, refined dynamics, and signature Aston Martin flair, the DBX S makes a compelling case as one of the most exhilarating combustion-powered SUVs on the market today.
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