Aston Martin DB11 Behind The Wheel Experience
It is common for the motoring media around the world to ‘suit up’ when given the opportunity to test drive an Aston Martin. Any Aston Martin. Why? Simple, it all started after watching the worlds most famous secret agent tackle the worlds most horrendous criminal minds whilst driving an Aston Martin in the 1964 movie, Goldfinger. At the time it was a Aston Martin DB5 which to most car enthusiasts was the best Aston Martin ever and still the sexiest with curves in the right places.
Fast forward to a few months ago and here comes Fernandez, Daniel Fernandez test driving the Aston Martin DB11 in search of law breaking food delivery motorcyclists who are speeding, beating traffic lights and running on pedestrian pavements. Not so glamorous, but what an opportunity to be behind the wheel of a very potent supercar.
The DB11 showcases a fresh and distinctive design language, pioneering aerodynamics and is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine.
The Design Explained
This DB11 re-imagines the relationship between form and function with a series of fresh design signatures. Foremost amongst these are the front-hinging clamshell bonnet, distinctive LED headlights and accentuated lines of the iconic Aston Martin grille. The profile is equally dramatic, thanks to the roof strakes that flow uninterrupted from A-pillar to C-pillar. The clean lines continue at the rear, with a sloping deck-lid that smoothly blends into boldly sculpted tail-lights to create a new and unmistakable graphic.
Innovative aerodynamics play their part in this aesthetic revolution with clever management of airflow both over and through the bodywork aiding stability while preserving the DB11’s uncluttered surfaces. Front-end lift is reduced by the gill-like Curlicue which releases high-pressure air from inside the wheel arch via a concealed vent within the redesigned side-strake. Meanwhile, rear-end lift is reduced by the Aston Martin AeroBladeTM; a virtual spoiler fed by discreet air intakes located at the base of each C-pillar. Air is ducted through the bodywork, before venting as a jet of air from the aperture in the rear decklid.
Under The Long Sleek Hood
Like every Aston Martin, the heart of the DB11 is found beneath the bonnet, though unlike any Aston Martin before it, the DB11’s heart is a 4.0-litre bi-turbocharged V8 which develops 503 bhp and 675Nm of torque, making DB11 the most powerful production DB model ever. Naturally, it’s the most dynamic and most accelerative too, with a top speed of 302km/h and a 0-100km/h time of just 4.0sec. Thanks to intelligent bank activation and stop-start technology that potency is matched by greatly improved efficiency.
Inside The Curvaceous Shape
To exploit the advantages of its new body structure and harness the immense performance of the new twin-turbo V8 engine, the DB11’s chassis, suspension, steering and electronics have been re-imagined and key new technologies embraced. Multiple driver-selectable dynamic modes – GT, Sport and Sport Plus – progressively intensify the response of the engine, 8-speed automatic ZF transmission together with the new electric power steering and Torque Vectoring by braking while increasing the firmness of the adaptive damping for a greater sense of agility.
As a true 21st century Aston Martin the DB11 combines the very latest technology developed in conjunction with technical partner, Daimler AG, with the finest quality and hand craftsmanship. Using a full-colour 12” TFT LCD display, the all-new instrument cluster presents primary vehicle information with absolute clarity, while a second, centrally-mounted 8” TFT screen is dedicated to infotainment. Controlled via an intuitive rotary control, with an optional touchpad offering character recognition, multi-touch and gesture support, the new satellite navigation and audio system have never been more effective, sounded better or been easier to operate. A newly implemented auto-park assist feature and 360-degree birds-eye view camera helps provide safe maneuvering at slow speeds and is also operated via the car’s infotainment system.
With wider door apertures, significantly increased occupant space – especially head and legroom in the rear – fully integrated rear ISOFIX mounting points for a pair of child seats plus a luggage compartment large enough to accommodate two large holdalls plus carry-on baggage, the DB11 is a genuine Grand Tourer. Thanks to an inspiring palette of colours and a vast array of detailing options, its interior can be perfectly in-tune with your unique personal style. From calming, carefully coordinated tones to sharp contrasts in hue and texture, your choices are virtually limitless. Nexus quilting and Celestial perforation add layers of beautiful complexity and intrigue, while ornate leatherwork, such as intricate brogue detailing, creates areas of visual and tactile delight.
Behind The Steering Wheel
There is never a dull moment with this or any Aston Martin. Even doodling around in traffic, the engine in a docile mood sends excitement to your ear with the V8 rumbling along a note of urgency. Its intention always clear, abuse my engine range across the available power band or stay at home.
There is little room for error as you accelerate hard and the landscape rushes along almost faster than your intended reaction time. Its quick, fun and very comfortable (that’s why its called a tourer).
You need to be extra alert when driving this car hard, as it is ready to pounce and ‘attack’ the tarmac with its torque steer if you are not ready for its strong mid-range power delivery.
Steering feedback on the open highway is right on the ‘dime’ and the assistance is almost weight perfect. Find a long sweeping corner and this tourer settles down with tenacious grip. You can chase down a supercar rival with ease and shock the driver or speed up on the highway allowing supercar rivals to chase you with little possibility of overtaking (taking into consideration your nerves, highway traffic and local law enforcement).
In the end of our drive, there was only one nagging question, how much better can the Aston driving experience get……the next generation DB will be even more awesome for sure.
With a 5-year warranty and also 5-year servicing package included in the selling price, it might be worth a look when shopping for the ultimate poser luxury grand tourer.
RM778,000 is the starting price before local duties and taxes are added on as most owners will buy and store in duty free Langkawi for 2-3 years to get the duties and taxes lowered.
Aston Martin DB11 Specifications:
Engine: V8 32v twin-turbo
Transmission: 8-speed semi-automatic
Displacement: 4.0cc
Power: 503hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 675Nm @ 5,000 rpm
0-100km/h: 4.0 seconds
Top Speed; 301km/h
Selling Price: RM778,000 before local duties and taxes paid.
About the Author
Daniel Sherman Fernandez www.dsf.my is a service to the public and other website owners. www.dsf.my is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims all liability for, damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on any information contained within the site www.dsf.my. While the information contained within the site is periodically updated, no guarantee is given that the information provided in this website is correct, complete, and up-to-date. www.dsf.my is not responsible for the accuracy or content of information contained inside.
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