DB11 V12 is the latest in a long line of grand touring Aston Martins, the emotional core of the brand. It’s all new from the ground up and hugely important to the marque as it begins its second century.

At the core of the new DB11 V12 is a new aluminium structure that combines bonded aluminium pressings, extrusions and castings. It’s lighter, stronger, more dynamic and more space-efficient than any DB before it, with a wheelbase some 65mm longer which enables the engine to be moved further back in the chassis for better weight distribution. There’s also more room behind the driver and the boot accommodates a full luggage set or golf bag plus trolley.

Externally, it’s all change; a lean, sleek shape that’s both aerodynamic and clean, with an uninterrupted flow from nose to tail. Standout features are the new grille, the clamshell bonnet and the dramatic new roof strake from A-pillar to C-pillar. The latter is a labour intensive, complex component but it gives the DB11 V12’s exterior a strong, bold contour that’s pure Aston Martin yet fresh.

The cabin has been reimagined, featuring a new console in a smooth sweep from dashboard through to the rear seats. The instrument cluster is a full-colour 12″ TFT display with an additional, central 8″ screen for infotainment. There’s a pleasing mix of advanced technical materials and hand-crafted upholstery with quilting, perforation and even brogueing to showcase Gaydon’s attention to detail.

Aston Martin goes turbocharged. But the visceral snarl of the V12 is as thrilling as ever. The new engine is a twin-turbocharged V12 of 5.2 litres capacity that develops 600bhp and 700Nm of torque. The most powerful engine ever fitted to a DB road car, it rockets the DB11 V12 from 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 200mph, conditions permitting.

Variable valve timing, intelligent bank activation and stop-start technology also ensure that the DB11’s turbo V12 is the most fuel efficient engine Aston has ever offered. It drives the rear wheels through an 8-speed paddleshift automatic box and offers three driving modes; GT, Sport and Sport+. Each step increases the aggression of the gearshifts and the soundtrack from the exhaust.

Other enhancements include the latest generation adaptive damping, Active Torque Vectoring to assist turn in and a new multi-link rear axle. The result is the most ‘connected’ and agile DB yet, but with no compromise to the continent-crossing comfort of an Aston Martin grand tourer.