2026 Aston Martin DBX S First Drive Evaluation: More Supercar Than SUV

The shapely Aston Martin DBX is without doubt one of the most profitable makes an attempt to mix supercar-level efficiency and presence with SUV practicality. The DBX707, particularly, delivers primo energy, sound, and driving pleasure, whereas its 2025 replace improved usability and luxury. The platform’s compromises—weight, dynamic finesse, and previous tech quirks—are outweighed by the enjoyable, drama, and sense that the DBX is greater than only a luxurious ute that’s quick.

This 12 months, the DBX lineup positive factors a brand new crown jewel: the DBX S. The “S” badge indicators one thing particular, and this flagship delivers with sharper efficiency and true exclusivity. Just 3,000 will probably be constructed worldwide, and just one,000 are coming to the U.S. Given that Aston Martin’s lone SUV is already its hottest vendor, the 2026 DBX S is certain to promote out quick.

The new variant boosts energy over the DBX707, with its Aston Martin–engineered Mercedes-AMG 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 now producing 717 hp (10 greater than the 707), whereas torque stays at 664 lb-ft. It additionally advantages from lighter parts—most notably an non-compulsory carbon-fiber roof (Aston’s largest ever panel produced from the stuff), accessible 23-inch magnesium wheels, and different carbon choices that may collectively shed greater than 100 kilos.

The DBX S provides sharper steering (the rack is 4 p.c faster), retains the 707’s upgraded air springs and dampers for higher physique management, and adopts revised tuning for the nine-speed transmission, together with extra aggressive downshifts in Sport and Sport+ modes.

More Serious Fascia

Visually, the DBX S distinguishes itself with model-specific particulars. Up entrance, it wears a gloss-black vaned grille, or patrons can go for a light-weight honeycomb mesh design impressed by the DBS 770 Ultimate. A reshaped entrance bumper with bigger useful nook vents and a brand new splitter additional sharpens seems whereas enhancing airflow.

At the rear, the DBX S pairs perform with aptitude. Vertically stacked quad exhaust shops are pushed to the corners, framing a wider multi-element diffuser. The diffuser, aspect sills, and rear wing can all be optioned in carbon-fiber, trimming roughly 15 kilos.

Other particulars underscore the DBX S’ high-end pedigree. Available 23-inch magnesium wheels—the primary OEM utility of their type—minimize one other 42 kilos, though they’ll set you again greater than $5,000 a pop (next-level curbing nervousness unlocked).

Handmade S badges add to the exclusivity, being crafted from stable metallic, completed in glass enamel with a crimson “S,” and plated in shiny or darkish chrome to match the chosen Aston wings. Specify a shade like Chimera Blue, and the paint’s metallic flakes vanish right into a wealthy, inky end till direct mild brings it alive.

Luxe Inside

Inside, the DBX S strikes the proper stability between sport and luxurious. Alcantara trim and non-compulsory carbon-fiber accents set the tone, whereas semi-aniline leather-based, crimson seat belts, and a brand new herringbone sample on the seats—and even the headliner in case you spec the carbon roof—drive dwelling the S’ exclusivity.

The ambiance is wealthy and alluring, with top-notch supplies and construct high quality all through. Still, the ten.3-inch touchscreen feels undersized in such a lavish cabin, and the piano-black trim proves each overly reflective and a magnet for fingerprints.

Greatness Plus Behind the Wheel

The best approach to neglect in regards to the fingerprints is to bury the throttle. True to Aston Martin type, the DBX S surges ahead with authority. Its measurement dulls a few of the seat-pinning sensation, however the added energy and diminished weight ought to see it eclipse the three.1-second dash to 60 mph we measured for the 707. That places it squarely amongst phase elites just like the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, each able to sub-three-second runs.

The soundtrack is equally compelling. The revised exhaust ditches the crossover pipe, sending every financial institution’s move straight out for a higher-pitched growl. Lift off the throttle and sharp crackles punctuate the notice, whereas the snappier transmission calibration heightens the drama. Even in a straight line, the DBX S channels supercar power.

Through the corners, the DBX S shrinks round you. The lighter roof and wheels, faster steering, and recalibrated suspension make it really feel extra alert than its measurement suggests. Grip is tenacious, the steering direct, and the chassis keen, with torque vectoring, lively anti-roll bars, and adaptive air springs working seamlessly within the background. It’s a blast within the canyons.

The setup strikes a cautious stability between management and luxury, although the experience remains to be agency and tire noise intrudes on rougher surfaces. Braking efficiency is equally spectacular, as large carbon-ceramic rotors and six-piston calipers present clean, confidence-inspiring stopping energy.

The DBX S makes pace easy. On an open stretch of freeway, 90 mph arrives virtually earlier than you notice it—so greatest to tread flippantly on the throttle in tighter confines. Despite its measurement, it’s spectacular that engineers trimmed the curb weight to lower than 5,000 kilos. For those that need fewer digital interventions, Aston features a driver help shutoff to let the SUV run with fewer nannies.

Supercar in SUV Form

The DBX S elevates the model’s already spectacular SUV into rarefied territory. With extra energy, significant weight reductions, and sharper steering and suspension tuning, it delivers efficiency that brushes shoulders with the most effective within the class whereas retaining on a regular basis consolation. Unique design cues, unique particulars, and a richly appointed cabin additional cement its flagship standing.

Behind the wheel, the DBX S feels each bit the supercar in SUV type. Explosive acceleration, a extra dramatic acoustic expertise, and agile dealing with make it as thrilling in a canyon blast as it’s on the autobahn. The experience is agency, and a few cabin tech feels a bit dated, however the DBX S obliterates these small drawbacks with character, pace, and theater. Exotic, unique, and exhilarating, the DBX S is pure Aston Martin at full quantity.