2023 Aston Martin DB11

Overview

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 into their SUVs and trucks, but that's nothing like the experience of driving an Aston Martin DB11. The standard 528-hp twin-turbo V-8 is while thrilling, the mighty 630-hp twin-turbo V-12 coupe is an even grandeur tourer. Both engines sing a beautiful soundtrack and are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission powering the rear wheels. The DB11 dashes through the quarter-mile in just 11.7 seconds and sounds great doing so. The DB11 delivers its performance without sacrificing comfort. Its bonded and riveted aluminum chassis features a suspension that doesn't crack teeth even in its firmest setting. The stitched seat patterns and rich leather add to the DB11 experience. Though its infotainment screen is small and outdated, the DB11's striking design and exclusivity never get old.

Where This Vehicle Ranks

1

Bentley Flying Spur

STARTING AT: $211,325

2

Bentley Continental GT

STARTING AT: $238,325

3

Rolls-Royce Phantom

STARTING AT: $460,000

4

Rolls-Royce Ghost

STARTING AT: $400,000

5

Mercedes-Maybach S-Class

STARTING AT: $194,550

8

Aston Martin DB11

STARTING AT: $220,086

What's New for 2023?

Not much changes for the 2023 Aston Martin DB11. A new 21-inch wheel option from the Vantage F1 Edition is now available, saving an estimated 33 pounds of unsprung weight across all four wheels. These lightweight wheels come standard with Pirelli P Zero tires.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

We think the convertible model, called Volante, is the best DB11 experience. Unfortunately, those who want the added character of the V-12 engine will be disappointed because the drop-top is sold only with the V-8. After selecting our preferred paint color, exterior trim, interior preferences, we'd add the Bang & Olufsen audio system and touchpad control for the infotainment system. The only other extras we'd recommend are the heated steering wheel and blind-spot monitoring.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The DB11 offers two engine choices: a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 or a twin-turbocharged 5.2-liter V-12. The former develops 528 horsepower and 513 pound-feet of torque while the latter makes 630 ponies and 516 pound-feet. Both pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission that transmits all that torque to the rear wheels. We've tested a detuned, 600-hp version of the V-12 DB11, which showed serious quickness. More recently, we drove the V-12-powered DB11 in northern Germany and reveled in its massive thrust, athletic moves, and an exhaust note that's equally melodic and menacing. We've also experienced the V-8 models. The DB11 coupe proved that the eight-cylinder can be about as quick and sound just as badass as the V-12. Likewise, the droptop DB11 Volante we drove was a stunning way to experience the south of France. While it's not available with the V-12, the Volante thankfully doesn't sacrifice performance.

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Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

With a powerful V-8 and V-12 engines, fuel economy is clearly a low priority for the DB11. Still, the V-8 earns a respectable 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The 12-cylinder alternative is less thrifty, with ratings of 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. For comparison, the W-12-powered Bentley Continental GT is even less efficient, at 12 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. We haven't had a chance to test any DB11 on our 75-mph fuel-economy route—part of our extensive testing regimen. For more information about the DB11's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The inside of every DB11 is plush and can be customized with a vast array of colors and exotic materials. We've noticed some inconsistent panel fitment and surprisingly cheap-feeling switchgear, though. Still, these issues are minor compared with the otherwise extravagant and heart-pounding experience of driving this car. Every model includes leather upholstery, heated and power-adjustable front seats, and passive entry. A heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats are on offer. There aren't many places inside the DB11 to store small items apart from the center-console bin, which slides open to reveal cupholders and a useful tray.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Derived from Mercedes-Benz, the infotainment system provides user-friendly controls and attractive menus. You select items on the smallish-seeming 8.0-inch screen via a standard rotary controller or the optional touchpad on the center console. Along with a 400-watt audio system and SiriusXM satellite radio, Aston gives every DB11 a Wi-Fi hotspot. Shoppers can upgrade to either a 700-watt sound system or a 1000-watt Bang & Olufsen unit.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Those interested in driver-assistance technology can add blind-spot monitoring and parking-assistance software. For more information about the DB11's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard 360-degree camera system
• Standard front and rear parking sensors
• Available self-park feature

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Aston Martin provides limited and powertrain warranties that are on par with what other high-end automakers offer. However, unlike the competition, Aston doesn't include any maintenance visits in its coverage.

• Limited warranty covers three years and unlimited miles
• Powertrain warranty covers three years and unlimited miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

More Features and Specs