Aston Martin is known for crafting stylish convertibles and the newly revealed DB12 Volante stands as a testament to that reputation. The drop-top variant of the DB12 arrives three months after its coupe sibling, losing the V12 option of the DB11 Volante while gaining a redesigned face and an overhauled interior with new technology.
Catering to enthusiasts who relish open-air driving, the Aston Martin DB12 Volante preserves its predecessors’ hallmark fabric reclining roof. Notably, the convertible boasts even more captivating proportions than the coupe when the roof is stored beneath the hard tonneau cover, exposing the beautiful materials of the cabin and putting more emphasis on the sexy tail.
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The electrically-operated fabric roof takes 14 seconds to open and 16 seconds to close at speeds of up to 50 km/h (31 mph). Folding is done in a two-stage pattern, resulting in a 260 mm stack height that doesn’t compromise much of the cargo capacity. Contrary to popular belief that convertibles are not as quit as coupes, Aston Martin says that the roof has been “acoustically enhanced”, featuring 8 layers of insulation.
The standard roof color is black, although it is optionally available in red, blue, and “black and silver” creating countless different combinations with the exterior shades and interior upholstery options. Different from the ones in the Coupe, the Volante’s seatbacks are available with wood veneer and carbon fiber panels matching the door trim inlay. Speaking of personalization options, owners can go a step further taking advantage of the Q by Aston Martin division with an extra charge.
The highlight of the interior is Aston Martin’s next-gen infotainment which was developed in-house and brings all of the latest connectivity features. The system is integrated within the new 10.25-inch Pure Black touchscreen and is connected to Bowers & Wilkins audio systems available with 11 speakers (390 Watt) as standard, or optionally with 15 speakers (1,170 Watt).
Just like its DB12 Coupe counterpart, the Volante is exclusively equipped with an AMG-sourced twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine, producing 671 hp (500 kW / 680 PS) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. This power is channeled to the rear axle through an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, assisted by an electronic rear differential (E-Diff).
The convertible GT achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in 3.7 seconds, trailing the coupe by only 0.1 seconds, and matching the top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph) achieved by its hardtop counterpart. In the future, we expect a plug-in hybrid option that will likely bring improved power and performance compared to the non-electrified V8.
The bonded aluminum structure of the DB12 Volante is an upgraded version of the one used by the DB11. Structural reinforcements lead to a 5% boost in torsional stiffness in contrast to the coupe’s 7% increase). The new adaptive dampers get a convertible-specific setup, as with the rear spring rates. In that context, Roberto Fedeli, Aston Martin’s Chief Technical Officer, says that the DB12 Volante offers “class-leading performance and handling” and is no longer poised as “the softer option” in the range.
Behind the standard 21-inch forged alloy wheels shod in bespoke Michelin Pilot S 5 tires, we find standard cast-iron discs measuring 400 mm (15.8 inches) at the front and 360 mm (14.2 inches) at the rear. Those can be optionally traded with carbon ceramic brakes which reduce fade and shave 27 kg (60 lbs) off the unsprung mass.
The Aston Martin DB12 Volante will make its public debut this Friday at The Quail, as part of the Monterey Car Week in California. The drop-top model will enter production within the third quarter of 2023, while the first deliveries are set to follow in the fourth quarter.
