A True Aston Martin, Elevated—Test Drive the Aston Martin DBX

ASTON MARTIN DBX | The Aston Martin DBX

Stands Out from the Competition with Emotional Styling

Amidst a steady stream of SUV models from competing brands, Aston Martin, the venerable British sports car maker, has finally introduced the DBX. What advantages does it hold over its predecessors? Automotive journalist Fumio Ogawa takes it for a spin.

Text by OGAWA Fumio | Photographs by MOCHIZUKI Hirohiko

First and Foremost: The Styling

Aston Martin's long-awaited SUV, the DBX, has finally arrived in Japan. It features a high-performance 4-liter V8 engine mounted on a specially developed chassis, creating a large model with a sports car-like driving experience. And it's beautiful.

A True Aston Martin, Elevated—Test Drive the Aston Martin DBX | ASTON MARTIN

In a word, it has a strong character. It's perfect for those who love SUVs they can enjoy driving, or for those who want the most stylish SUV, or for those who want an SUV they can use like a high-speed limousine.

The green light for the DBX's development was given around 2015. Although information about the progress has been periodically shared by the manufacturer since then, it's true that fans were anxious, wondering if it would ever actually be released.

Perhaps the timing of its release was not bad after all. With Bentley's Bentayga receiving a facelift and equipment updates, and Rolls-Royce successfully rejuvenating its customer base with the Cullinan, these are the recent trends in the luxury SUV market. The addition of 'another option' during this period is great news for those seeking a luxurious and high-performance SUV.

What's most noteworthy about the DBX is its styling. The sense of volume, with dimensions of 5039mm long, 1998mm wide, and 1680mm high, combined with emotional surface treatments that utilize many curves, creates an overwhelming presence. Furthermore, the grille and headlamp combination is instantly recognizable as an Aston Martin.

While the grille might be a bit too large, if electrification is considered in the future, a powerful inverter will likely be needed, requiring a large opening for cooling. It could be considered a surprisingly rational design.

V8 Engine, Developed with AMG, Boasts Overwhelming Acceleration

For now, one can enjoy the overwhelming power of the 3982cc V8, with a maximum output of 405kW (550ps) and a peak torque of 700Nm. This engine, developed with input from AMG—the former employer of Aston Martin Lagonda's current CEO, Tobias Moers—is also found in the Mercedes-Benz GLS580 4MATIC Sports.

A True Aston Martin, Elevated—Test Drive the Aston Martin DBX | ASTON MARTINv

The GLS580 4MATIC Sports, incidentally, uses the same engine but with a reduced output of 360kW (489ps). While that car is also highly accomplished, the DBX is clearly superior in comparison.

While the DBX isn't designed without considering off-road capability, unlike Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the models coming to Japan can be equipped with either regular summer tires, all-season tires, or studless winter tires, allowing customers to choose. Other test reports also suggest it performs well on rough terrain like deserts and gravel. Nevertheless, its character is more clearly defined and leans towards sportiness.

The acceleration is overwhelming. It truly felt like a tall Aston Martin. It encapsulates the charm of a company that has focused almost exclusively on sports cars since 1913. I imagine someone who owns a DBS Vantage might think that buying a DBX would only differ in its height and packaging.

Matt Becker, who oversees all vehicle development at the company and comes from Lotus, appeared in an online presentation and said, "You can select your preferred settings with the drive mode selector."

Becker mentioned his preferred combination: dampers in GT mode, steering in GT mode, transmission in Sport mode, and the exhaust sound enhancer also in Sport mode.

This setup suits the DBX, which offers ample rear-seat space, making it suitable as a limousine. The engine's generous torque, which reaches its maximum from 2200rpm, and the substantial ride quality—firm yet not harsh—are realized through this configuration.

On the other hand, in modes like Sport or Sport+, the character changes considerably. The twin-turbo engine responds to even the slightest press of the accelerator pedal with explosive power. Combined with the slightly quick steering, it's perfect for spirited driving. Even Sport mode is more than sufficient.

Worth the Wait: A Masterful Finish

The driving force is electronically controlled. Typically, torque is distributed slightly more to the rear wheels, and this distribution changes according to driving style and road conditions. The electronically controlled 'active central differential' and the 'e-diff' limited-slip differential on the rear wheels ensure optimal torque distribution, enhancing control.

Thanks to the electronically controlled dampers, body roll is well managed even in tighter corners, allowing the car to corner with a nearly flat posture. It can be enjoyed in various ways depending on how you drive. It gives the impression of being meticulously refined to achieve 100% performance in every aspect. It's a finish that was worth the wait.

The base model is priced at ¥22,995,000. Options are abundant. Competitors in this price range include the Bentley Bentayga V8 with its 405kW 4-liter V8 (¥21,428,000), the Lamborghini Urus with its 478kW 4-liter V8 (¥30,681,070), and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Coupe with its 404kW 4-liter V8 (¥20,630,000).