Sneak Peek: The Astounding Evolution of the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera's Successor
Air of mystery and anticipation surrounds the Aston Martin's latest marvel, the successor to the iconic DBS Superleggera, as it undergoes vigorous testing at the Nurburgring Nordschleife. The automotive world is at the edge of its seat, waiting for glimpses of what could set the new standard for grand touring. Recently, car enthusiasts got more than they bargained for when the most production-ready prototype was caught on camera, flaunting its quad exhaust outlets, a bold departure from the Aston Martin DB12's dual exhaust setup.
The prototype not only hints at significant performance enhancements but also showcases design cues taken from its siblings in the Aston Martin lineup. Riding on Pirelli tires, the vehicle introduces Vantage-inspired headlights that incorporate six dazzling LEDs for daytime running lights on each side. It's not just about the lights; large hood vents, an aggressive front lip spoiler, and an expanded radiator grille draw your gaze, hinting at the beast's power lurking beneath.
From a side-on perspective, one might struggle to spot the differences between this prototype and the DB12. However, a closer inspection around the back reveals a story of innovation and design evolution. With a redesigned bumper, an aerodynamic diffuser, uniquely styled taillights distinct from both the Vantage and DB12, and an elegantly upswept rear deck lid, the car's posterior is a clear nod to its Vantage heritage while moving distinctly forward.
Performance-wise, there's much to speculate. The way this prototype tackles the legendary Caracciola-Karussell corner suggests the inclusion of stiffer anti-roll bars and intelligent adaptive dampers, denoting a stride towards increased torsional rigidity over the DB11 and its predecessor models. It's this foundational rigidity that could unleash the full potential of the rumored V12 powerhouse nestled within its finely crafted chassis.
Speed enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that this grand tourer, in line with its predecessors, is expected to boast a ZF-supplied transaxle, empowering it to reach exhilarating speeds of up to 202 miles per hour. Additionally, the adoption of carbon-ceramic brakes and possibly carbon-fiber body panels indicates a relentless pursuit of performance through weight reduction.
The heart of this beast, a twin-turbo V12 engine, is anticipated to eclipse the already impressive output of the DBS Superleggera and the limited-run DBS 770 Ultimate. With the automotive world's eyes turned towards the competition, notably Ferrari's next masterpiece, the successor to the DBS Superleggera is poised to not just compete but potentially dominate the super GT segment.
As for the interior, a significant upgrade in the form of a touchscreen infotainment system is on the cards, replacing the traditional rotary controller knob found in its predecessor. This change aligns with Aston Martin's broader strategy to modernize the in-car experience across its range. The upcoming DBX and the more powerful DBX707 are also in line to receive this update, indicating a new era of luxury and tech integration for the brand.
In the realm of powertrains, the future looks electric, with Aston Martin's plan to hybridize its V12, ensuring that its legacy of performance can continue in a more sustainable world. As the automotive industry evolves, so does Aston Martin, setting the stage for a future where luxury, performance, and sustainability intersect.