Alongside the updated powertrain, the Aston Martin DBX S receives chassis, suspension, and electronic tuning enhancements to handle the added performance.
By Reetika Bhatt
Aston Martin has introduced the DBX S, its most powerful SUV to date, featuring a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 717bhp and 900Nm of torque. This marks a 157bhp increase over the standard DBX, positioning the S variant as the performance flagship in the lineup. Alongside the upgraded powertrain, the DBX S receives chassis, suspension, and electronic tuning updates to handle the added performance. It also features design tweaks, including a revised front grille, new splitter, and larger quad exhausts. The interior remains largely unchanged but includes model-specific detailing. With these enhancements, the DBX S combines everyday usability with significantly improved performance, targeting rivals in the high-performance luxury SUV segment such as the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT. Deliveries are expected to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.
The model's 4.0-litre V8, now enhanced with turbocharger technology, puts out an impressive 717bhp. Throttle mapping has been sharpened, contributing to quicker engine response and a 0–100km/h sprint of just 3.3 seconds. An available performance exhaust system allows the engine’s raw sound to come through more clearly. In addition to increased power, Aston Martin has trimmed weight and recalibrated the transmission for snappier gear changes and a more alert driving feel.
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The active all-wheel-drive system has also been retuned to vary torque distribution more precisely based on road conditions. Coupled with updated air suspension and improved roll control, these changes shift the DBX S’s focus toward delivering a more connected and refined driving experience rather than chasing pure performance stats.
The Aston Martin DBX S builds upon the DBX707 with a more focused design and performance-oriented upgrades. It introduces a revised front grille finished in black, with an optional lightweight polycarbonate honeycomb insert reminiscent of the DBS 770 Ultimate.
Aerodynamic tweaks – such as an updated rear diffuser, a reshaped front splitter, and functional air-channelling side skirts – enhance both airflow efficiency and visual presence. Buyers can add carbon fibre detailing to components like the mirrors and side strakes for a sharper look. A discreet ‘S’ badge on the fenders hints at its enhanced capabilities without being overly flashy. The SUV also offers 23-inch forged magnesium wheels and a carbon fibre roof, which removes roof rails and cuts nearly 18.14 kg from the vehicle’s mass, helping improve balance and lower its centre of gravity.
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Steering has been re-engineered with a 4% faster ratio, resulting in a tighter turning radius by about 1.6 ft and more responsive handling in confined spaces. The suspension setup mirrors the upgraded air system used in the DBX707, delivering better road feedback and control. Exterior finish options include bold hues like Podium Green, Trophy Silver, and Rosso Corsa Red.
Inside, the DBX S features redesigned sport seats with a herringbone stitch pattern that can be optionally extended to the roof lining, especially when the carbon roof is specified. Alcantara is the primary trim for the dashboard, seats, centre console, and headliner, though customers can swap in semi-aniline leather for the bolsters or the entire interior if preferred.
A standard 14-speaker sound system is included, while audiophiles can opt for a high-end 23-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup for enhanced in-cabin acoustics. Red seatbelts serve as a subtle nod to the vehicle’s sporting character, complemented by embroidered ‘S’ logos on the engine plaque, seats, and door sills.