DBX

DBX
Name	DBX
Manufacturer	Aston Martin
Production	2020–present
Class	Luxury Crossover SUV
Layout	Four-wheel drive
Platform	Aston Martin proprietary
Related	Vantage, DB11
Designer	Marek Reichman
Engine	4.0 L Mercedes-AMG M177 twin-turbo V8
Transmission	9-speed 9G-Tronic automatic
Wheelbase	3,060 mm (120.5 in)
Length	5,039 mm (198.4 in)
Width	1,998 mm (78.7 in)
Height	1,680 mm (66.1 in)

DBX. The DBX is the first SUV produced by the British luxury automotive manufacturer Aston Martin. Introduced in 2020, it marked a pivotal expansion for the Gaydon-based marque into the lucrative high-performance crossover segment, following the path of rivals like the Bentley Bentayga and Lamborghini Urus. Developed under the leadership of then-CEO Andy Palmer and designed by Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman, the DBX combines the brand's signature grand touring ethos with off-road capability, utilizing a bespoke platform and a powertrain sourced from technical partner Mercedes-Benz.

Overview

The DBX represents a strategic and essential model for Aston Martin, aimed at broadening its customer base and improving financial stability. It is built at the company's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in St Athan, Wales, the brand's first purpose-built SUV plant. As a vehicle, it seeks to deliver the driving dynamics, craftsmanship, and aesthetic appeal associated with models like the DB11 and Vantage, but within a more practical and versatile five-door body style. Its launch was critical for the company's "Second Century" plan, competing directly in a segment pioneered by the Porsche Cayenne and dominated by the Range Rover Sport.

Design and Development

The design process, led by Marek Reichman, focused on ensuring the DBX was unmistakably an Aston Martin, translating the brand's sculptural language to a larger form factor. Key signatures include the pronounced Aston Martin grille, distinctive DRL light signatures, and a sweeping, coupe-like roofline. The chassis is a new, lightweight bonded-aluminum structure developed in-house. Extensive development and testing took place at locations such as the Nürburgring, the Welsh mountains, and the Middle East to refine its on-road handling and all-terrain composure. The interior emphasizes bespoke luxury, with materials like Bridge of Weir leather and optional trim from companies like Brough Superior.

Technical Specifications

Powering the DBX is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine sourced from technical partner Mercedes-AMG, producing 542 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This unit is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission from Mercedes-Benz and a permanent four-wheel drive system with an active central differential and an electronic rear limited-slip differential. The suspension features an adaptive triple-chamber air spring system, allowing for a wide range of ride heights and stiffness settings. Standard carbon-ceramic brakes provide stopping power. Performance figures include a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 181 mph.

Production and Sales

Production commenced in 2020 at the St Athan facility in Wales, a site that also supports the production of the Aston Martin Valkyrie. The DBX quickly became the best-selling model in the Aston Martin lineup, accounting for over half of the brand's global sales volume and proving vital to its financial turnaround under leadership from Lawrence Stroll and CEO Tobias Moers. It has been offered in various markets worldwide, including North America, China, and the Middle East, with special editions like the DBX707 unveiled later to enhance its market position against competitors like the Ferrari Purosangue.

Motorsport and Performance

While primarily a road car, the DBX has been developed for high-performance applications, culminating in the extreme DBX707 variant, which boasts 697 horsepower. The model has also been adapted for motorsport and official duties; a modified DBX serves as the official FIA Medical Car for Formula One, making its debut at the 2021 F1 season. This role requires it to meet stringent FIA safety and performance standards, following in the tire tracks of previous medical cars like the Mercedes-AMG GT R. The vehicle's dynamics have been praised by publications such as Autocar and Top Gear for its engaging driving experience.

Cultural Impact and Reception

The DBX's reception has been broadly positive, with acclaim for its design, luxurious interior, and surprising agility. It has been featured in prominent media, including appearances in films and on television shows, reinforcing Aston Martin's association with sophistication and performance. The vehicle has been awarded titles like "Luxury SUV of the Year" by magazines such as GQ. Its success is seen as validating the brand's risky foray into the SUV segment, helping to secure its future and fund development of future sports cars and the transition to electrification, including planned models under the Project Horizon strategy.

Category:Aston Martin vehicles Category:Crossover SUVs Category:Vehicles introduced in 2020