2024 Aston Martin DB12 Volante: A Powerful and Sedate Grand Tourer
The 2024 Aston Martin DB12 Volante is an impressive car that boasts a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, delivering a staggering 671 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. This power increase of 143 horsepower compared to its predecessor, the DB11, makes the DB12 Volante an absolute beast on the road. Despite its immense power, Aston Martin has chosen not to opt for all-wheel drive, keeping the rear-wheel drive configuration exclusive to this model. For those seeking all-wheel drive, the DB series with an X on the end is the way to go.
However, the combination of such power and rear-wheel drive can be nerve-wracking in certain conditions. During a test drive in the Santa Monica Mountains, where it had recently rained heavily, the road conditions were less than ideal. The damp and green hills made for slippery roads, presenting a challenge for the DB12 Volante. Nevertheless, it became evident that this car is not just about power; it also embodies the grand-touring nature that Aston Martin is known for. It offers a refined and serene driving experience, unlike some hypercars that are loud, aggressive, and always on edge.
When driving the DB12 Volante, it’s advisable to avoid wet roads. The convertible roof allows for top-down cruising on sunny days, but it may not be an ideal choice in rainy weather. The wind deflector helps to maintain a comfortable cabin when the top is down, effectively minimizing wind noise. Aston Martin’s innovative eight-layer cloth roof provides excellent insulation, ensuring a quiet and luxurious interior regardless of weather conditions.
Speaking of the interior, Aston Martin has taken significant strides in improving its design and functionality. While past iterations relied on switchgear borrowed from other manufacturers, the DB12’s interior is genuinely Aston Martin. Drawing inspiration from Porsche’s interior design, the rising center console is adorned with well-placed buttons, creating an intuitive layout. The touchscreen infotainment system is Aston Martin’s first in-house development, and it impresses with its user-friendly interface and compatibility with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The overall design of the DB12 Volante’s interior is elegant, with an angled dashboard that enhances the feeling of space in the cockpit. The outdated PRND shift buttons have been replaced by a more modern and functional shifter on the center console, reminiscent of Porsche’s design choices. Aston Martin offers an array of customization options, allowing owners to personalize their cars to their heart’s content.
Undoubtedly, the 2024 Aston Martin DB12 Volante comes with a hefty price tag starting at $265,000. However, this price is justified by the immense power, refined driving experience, and well-appointed interior. This grand tourer is more than just a beautiful and exclusive car; it delivers on its promises of performance and luxury. So, for those seeking an extraordinary and incomparable driving experience, the DB12 Volante is a perfect choice.
