Aston Martin DBR22: Exclusive Launch of a Bespoke V12 Roadster at Monterey Car Week 2022

Aston Martin Unveils the Exclusive DBR22 at Monterey Car Week 2022

A New Chapter in Luxury Sports Car Heritage

Aston Martin, the renowned British luxury carmaker, has unveiled its stunning new DBR22, a two-seater V12-powered roadster with a bespoke exterior design. The reveal took place during the 2022 Monterey Car Week, celebrating the brand’s rich legacy in producing open-top sports cars.

Evolution of the DBR22: A Tribute to Aston Martin’s Iconic Past

The DBR22, debuted in California, represents the latest concept in a long line of development projects from the Q by Aston Martin customization division, which marks its 10th anniversary this year of delivering exclusive vehicles to elite clients worldwide. Q by Aston Martin has previously created iconic models such as the Aston Martin Victor, the highly exclusive Vulcan (limited to 24 units globally), and the Vantage V600 (with only 14 units produced). The DBR22 serves as a foundation for producing future bespoke cars tailored to the tastes of Aston Martin’s most discerning customers.

Classic Design Meets Modern Craftsmanship

The DBR22 seamlessly blends classic automotive design with cutting-edge materials and advanced manufacturing techniques. The result is a remarkable fusion of meticulous craftsmanship, high engineering precision, and powerful performance—capturing the true passion of Aston Martin’s open-top sports cars. This launch stands as a testament to the achievements and capabilities of the Q by Aston Martin division, making the DBR22 one of the rarest models in the brand’s 109-year history.

Inspired by Legends: Heritage and Innovation Combined

The DBR22’s striking, harmonious proportions and muscular stance are inspired by Aston Martin’s storied legacy of open-top, two-seater sports cars, specifically the legendary DBR1 and DB3S. While rooted in tradition, the car offers a fresh perspective on dynamic design for modern enthusiasts.

The 1953 DB3S holds a special place in Aston Martin’s racing history. Designed by Frank Feeley, its curved, aerodynamic aluminum body made it a formidable competitor at Le Mans and other prestigious races. The DBR1 later elevated Feeley’s design principles, becoming one of Aston Martin’s most celebrated sports cars. Notably, the DBR1 won the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans under drivers Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori, and secured the World Sports Car Championship for Aston Martin that same year.

Sleek Exterior: A New Standard in Bespoke Design

Aston Martin’s designers have crafted a unique body for the DBR22 by reducing the number of body panels, enhancing its muscular and streamlined appearance. This minimalist approach results in a flowing, elegant silhouette filled with distinctive aesthetic details.

The all-new front grille sets the DBR22 apart with a unique carbon fiber insert replacing the conventional mesh found on other Aston Martin models. This design draws direct inspiration from the DBR1 and DB3S, giving the DBR22 a contemporary yet heritage-inspired identity.

Performance-Inspired Details and Advanced Features

• The hood features a horseshoe-shaped vent, improving airflow from the 5.2-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. A signature long sculpted line runs from the hood toward the cockpit, continuing above the wind deflector and the sleek, carbon fiber mirrors mounted on thin arms atop the doors to reduce wind resistance.
• The DBR22 rides on all-new 21-inch forged aluminum wheels with a unique 14-spoke design and a motorsport-inspired central locking platform, customizable in a variety of colors.
• The paintwork can be fully personalized through Aston Martin’s “paint to sample” program—a bespoke offering by Q by Aston Martin that showcases the division’s extensive customization capabilities.

Interior: Classic Elegance Meets Modern Technology

The DBR22’s cabin merges classic aesthetics with contemporary methods, highlighted by extensive use of leather and carbon fiber throughout. A newly designed dashboard and infotainment displays add an extra touch of sophistication. While the exterior draws from Aston Martin’s racing heritage, the luxurious interior is crafted for comfort, with aromatic leather enveloping the advanced control panel, performance seats, and door tops, creating a visually appealing and inviting space.

Distinctive Rear Design and Aerodynamics

Behind the seats, a dual-hump rear fairing optimizes airflow over the occupants’ heads. The rear features a full-width, slim illuminated light bar and a custom-designed perforated panel that allows hot air to escape, complemented by an aerodynamic diffuser and large twin exhaust pipes. These elements collectively amplify the DBR22’s bold road presence and deliver an exhilarating driving experience.

Unlimited Bespoke Options with Q by Aston Martin

Q by Aston Martin offers clients the opportunity to create entirely unique designs for any model, with a vast selection of colors, finishes, and custom graphics for both exterior and interior carbon fiber and composite components, ensuring every vehicle is a personalized masterpiece.

Pinnacle Performance: The 5.2L Twin-Turbo V12

• Engine: 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12
• Power: 715 hp
• Torque: 753 Nm
• 0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds
• Top Speed: 198 mph (319 km/h)

The DBR22 delivers a thrilling, immersive driving experience, perfectly harmonized with the robust sound of its V12 engine.

Precision Handling and Advanced Engineering

The DBR22’s dynamic attributes are engineered for a close connection between driver and machine. Its chassis ensures sharp handling and agility, while the unique calibration of the engine and eight-speed automatic transmission delivers a responsive, engaging drive. The steering column enhances accuracy and provides detailed feedback, allowing drivers to fully command the vehicle.

Special attention has been paid to the chassis, with custom-calibrated adaptive dampers and front and rear subframes improving stability and precision, whether on the road or racetrack.

For the first time in Aston Martin’s history, the DBR22 features a secondary subframe produced using 3D printing technology. This highly advanced aluminum structure reduces weight without sacrificing strength and enables the creation of exclusive components for future limited-edition models.

Expert Insights on the DBR22’s Innovative Approach

Roberto Fedeli, Chief Technical Officer at Aston Martin, commented: “Advanced technologies were pivotal in creating the DBR22, from the extensive use of carbon fiber to the adoption of 3D printing for structural components. This car demonstrates Aston Martin’s immense capabilities, from world-class design and flexible manufacturing to expert engineering and production. As a bespoke model celebrating the achievements of the Q by Aston Martin division, the DBR22 is the ideal platform for showcasing dynamic excellence and delivering performance befitting its stunning appearance.”

Marek Reichman, Chief Creative Officer at Aston Martin, added: “Immersive driving experiences are at the heart of our design philosophy, opening new horizons for aesthetics and integrating the latest technologies. By combining innovation with advanced materials, we have evolved our racing series and produced remarkable new models. The DBR22 stands as a purebred Aston Martin sports car, embodying speed, agility, and power, and we believe it will inspire even more extraordinary models in the future.”

Public Debut at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

The DBR22 concept will be showcased at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance from Friday, August 19 to Sunday, August 21.