A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.6/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.9
Comfort & Interior
4.7
Running Costs
3.2
Practicality
3.5
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a grand tourer that combines breathtaking performance with British luxury? The Aston Martin DBS delivers exactly that with its blend of sophisticated engineering and unmistakable presence. This flagship coupe represents the pinnacle of Aston Martin’s design philosophy, offering supercar performance wrapped in elegant bodywork. The DBS stands out in the luxury sports car segment with its handcrafted V12 engine, producing remarkable power that few rivals can match. Whether you’re cruising through countryside lanes or making a statement at exclusive venues, this British thoroughbred offers an experience that combines raw performance with refined comfort. The DBS appeals to drivers who want something truly special, offering exclusivity that mass produced sports cars simply cannot deliver. With its distinctive styling and thunderous exhaust note, the DBS creates an emotional connection that goes beyond mere transportation. Finding the right car finance options becomes essential when considering such a significant investment, but the DBS rewards owners with an ownership experience that few cars can replicate.
What's the Aston Martin DBS Like to Drive?
The Aston Martin DBS is powered by a magnificent 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 715 horsepower. This translates to a 0-60 mph time of just 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 211 mph. The engine note is pure theatre, delivering a spine tingling symphony that builds from a rumbling idle to a full blooded roar under acceleration. Every journey becomes an occasion when you have this much performance at your disposal.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
5.2L Twin-Turbo V12
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Power Output
715 bhp
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0-60 mph
3.4 seconds
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MPG Combined
19 mpg
- Boot Space
- 270 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Aston Martin DBS: Comfort & Features
Step inside the DBS and you’re immediately surrounded by luxury that feels genuinely special. The cabin showcases the finest leather upholstery, carbon fibre accents, and perfectly crafted metal details. Every control feels precisely engineered, from the jewel like starter button to the satisfying click of the gear paddles. The seats are works of art in themselves, offering excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable on longer journeys.
A brutal blend of grand tourer grace and super car aggression. The DBS delivers genuinely thrilling performance with a surprising level of everyday usability-a truly compelling package.
Is the Aston Martin DBS Expensive to Run?
As you’d expect from a flagship supercar, the DBS comes with premium ownership costs that reflect its exclusive nature. Fuel economy averages around 19 mpg in real world driving, though this can drop significantly when you’re enjoying the full performance potential. Insurance costs are substantial, typically falling into the highest groups due to the car’s value and performance capabilities.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Aston Martin DBS
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Ferrari 812 Superfast
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Bentley Continental GT
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £225,000 | £260,000 | £180,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 5.2L Twin-Turbo V12 | 6.5L V12 | 6.0L Twin-Turbo W12 |
| Power | 715 bhp | 789 bhp | 626 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 3.4 seconds | 2.9 seconds | 3.7 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 19 mpg | 15 mpg | 22 mpg |
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Practicality
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | British craftsmanship, Grand touring comfort, Distinctive styling | Racing pedigree, Track focused, Naturally aspirated V12 | Luxury focus, All-wheel drive, Supreme refinement |
Aston Martin DBS Practicality & Boot Space
For a high performance supercar, the DBS offers surprisingly decent practicality. The boot provides 270 litres of space, which is enough for a weekend away or several sets of golf clubs. The rear seats are best reserved for additional storage rather than passengers, as legroom is very limited. Inside the cabin, you’ll find useful storage compartments for phones, wallets, and other essentials.
Absolutely stunning car that never fails to put a smile on my face. The V12 sounds incredible and the build quality is exceptional. It’s surprisingly comfortable for long trips too, which was important for me. The only downside is the attention it attracts everywhere you go.
The Aston Martin DBS stands as one of the finest grand tourers ever created, combining British craftsmanship with world class performance. It packages a glorious V12 engine, exquisite interior, and stunning design into a car that’s both devastatingly fast and surprisingly usable. While it demands significant investment and comes with premium running costs, it offers something truly special that mass produced supercars simply cannot match.
