Introduction
Today, we present to you one of the stars of the iconic James Bond film series. However, we are not talking about Sean Connery or Daniel Craig, but rather the Aston Martin DB, specifically the DB11. Join us as we explore this legendary film vehicle and the remarkable car from Aston Martin.
Car History
The DB11 replaced its predecessor, the DB9, when it was first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2016. If you're wondering about the DB10, it was created as a one-off prototype specifically for the James Bond film "Spectre" in 2015.
The DB11 is a very special car for Aston Martin, not only due to its association with the James Bond franchise but also because it is the first car produced by Aston Martin in partnership with Daimler, the owner of Mercedes, which holds a 5% stake in Aston Martin. Throughout our experience, we will highlight how this partnership has influenced the DB11 in many ways.
Exterior Design
The design of the DB11 exudes elegance and the exquisite craftsmanship we have come to expect from Aston Martin, blended with modern elements that reflect the future of the brand's designs. Certain aspects, such as the front grille and the car's overall lines, remain true to the Aston Martin identity, making it instantly recognizable from any angle.
Design Updates
- New dynamic LED headlight assembly.
- Distinctive daytime running lights that also serve as turn indicators.
- New shape for the air vents integrated into the front wheel arch openings.
- 20-inch wheels with various design options.
- Large brake discs and Aston Martin brakes.
- Specially designed Bridgestone tires named S007.
The hood is a large piece of aluminum, like most of the car's body, housing a powerful 5.2-liter V12 engine, the first twin-turbocharged engine from Aston Martin. Being an Aston Martin, the feeling of luxury begins with the automatic hood closure feature.
Another distinctive design feature is the black line on the "C pillar," which separates the roof from the rest of the car's body. This black line also includes air vents that channel air into the car, creating a pseudo rear wing effect that enhances downforce for improved stability. When you open the trunk, which has a capacity of 240 liters, you'll notice these vents.
Rear Design
At the rear, there are uniquely designed LED lights arranged in a curved line, complemented by two large exhaust openings.
Before we delve into the interior design, let’s talk about the Aston Martin doors that open with electric assistance at a 30-degree angle, making it easier to get in and out of the car. Such details are what set Aston Martin cars apart; even the door sill has a plaque reminding you that this DB11 is handcrafted in Britain.
Interior Design
Inside the Aston Martin, the cabin is adorned with the finest hand-stitched leather, covering nearly everything, including the roof. This is beautifully complemented by metallic and piano black plastic accents, along with high-quality wood on the doors.
Entertainment System
The most noticeable influence from Mercedes in the DB11’s cabin is the entertainment system, with the screen, touchpad, and control dial directly borrowed from the previous generation of Mercedes vehicles. You can even spot the light switch dial taken from Mercedes.
Technological Features
While the entertainment system may feel somewhat dated, it is adequate for a GT car, offering navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium sound system with Bang & Olufsen speakers that deliver up to 1000 watts, featuring two speakers that rise automatically when the car is started.
Additional Features
- 360-degree visibility with sensors around the car.
- Extremely comfortable seats with heating and cooling options.
- Electric controls for seat adjustments.
- Electricly operated armrest console.
If you look at the instrument panel, you'll notice full screens that change appearance according to the driving modes and display customizable information accessible via steering wheel buttons.
Driving Experience
We begin our drive in the DB11 by switching to the Sport+ driving mode, which is one of three settings: GT, Sport, and Sport+. When you change the driving mode, you will immediately notice a distinct change, especially in the exhaust note. While driving, it's easy to use the paddle shifters to switch between the first gear or the automatic D mode.
Engine Performance
The car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 322 km/h. These impressive figures are achieved thanks to the 5.2-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, which produces 600 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque, transmitted to the rear wheels through an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission located at the rear for better weight distribution.
To keep all this power stable on the road, the car features a limited-slip differential, and for the first time, it incorporates torque vectoring during braking and a multi-link rear suspension, thanks to its partnership with Mercedes.
This partnership also provides an electro-mechanical steering system, the first of its kind in British vehicles, which enhances ease and comfort during driving.
Driving the DB11 feels like experiencing a new James Bond film starring Jason Statham—full of aggression, power, ferocity, and the absolute elegance that defines the British agent.
One of the wonderful features in the DB11’s driving settings is a dedicated button to adjust the suspension stiffness across three modes. This means you can be in Sport+ mode but still set the suspension to GT, providing the DB11 with a luxurious driving experience on any road while retaining maximum power at the same time.
Final Verdict
The Aston Martin DB11 stands apart from competitors like the Ferrari Portofino and the Bentley GT. The former focuses more on sporty driving, while the latter emphasizes luxury. However, the DB11 successfully combines the luxury of a GT with the performance of a pure sports car, all while maintaining the elegant character that is synonymous with Aston Martin vehicles. Such an experience comes at a price, with the DB11 starting at 930,000 AED, excluding taxes.
