Early 2016 will see the launch of the Aston Martin DB11, the first of several new models from the British marque.
If you’re wondering why the car to follow the DB9 is a DB11 and not a DB10, blame 007. Or rather Spectre, his arch enemies. The DB10 is the car they drive in the upcoming Bond movie and is one of a limited run of 10 made… all for the film.
Styling cues
As Autocar’s rendering shows, the DB11 will take its cues from a couple of Aston’s recent concepts – the DBX crossover we saw at Geneva earlier this year – and the CC100 concept that was built in 2013 to commemorate the brand’s centenary.
New engines and a manual transmission
There are no specifics yet, but given the their technical partnership with AMG signed in 2013, it’s very likely the DB11 will get a revised version of the Mercedes-AMG GT’s 4.0-litre V8 turbo. Other engines will probably include a heavily revised version of Aston Martin’s V12 fitted with twin turbochargers.
Whereas the current DB9 is only available with a six-speed auto, the new car will be offered with a six-speed manual, as well as a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic gearbox.
New platform
Much like the current VH platform, the new chassis will be a bonded and riveted structure. And like its predecessor, will also be versatile enough to form the underpinnings of other future models – including the planned DBX crossover.
The chassis will feature an all-new lightweight suspension with double wishbones at the front and rear and, reports Autocar, it is likely that the AMG partnership has had an influence here with some parts taken from the German brand.
The DB11 will have a slightly longer wheelbase than the DB9, allowing for more interior space.
