An Aston Martin DB11 equipped with a twin-turbocharged V8 engine will be launched later this year.
The future model's engine is sourced from Mercedes-AMG and is based on the ‘hot-vee’ unit used by the AMG GT. It will produce around 525bhp, which is 75bhp less than the existing twin-turbocharged V12 DB11. Government data confirms this development car testing with a 3982cc engine; the same capacity V8 as is used in the AMG GT.
The V8 comes as part of Aston Martin's deal with Mercedes, which involves co-operating on powertrain development. The 2018 V8 Vantage will also inherit the AMG unit.
The DB11 already features Mercedes' electronic architecture and switchgear, and the same is expected for Aston’s other future models.
Autocar understands that aside from engine development work, the DB11 test car seen here is being used alongside several other V12-engined mules to finalise chassis settings before the first production V8 DB11s are built.
Although the first mule was wearing camouflage, the exterior looks unchanged from the V12 version, suggesting both variants will be aesthetically identical.
Due to the smaller block under the bonnet, the model will be a little lighter than the 1770kg V12 model, but thanks to its lower power output, performance will trail that of the range-topping model. Pricing will also significantly undercut the V12 model, which starts at £154,900.
A key rival to the 12-cylinder DB11 is the W12 engined Bentley Continental GT. The V8 DB11 will therefore become a natural rival to the V8 Continental GT.
Aston Martin DB11 video review
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And by the way the SUV look to be "racy" in comparison!
Cheers!
NO!
Shameful!! (Continued)