Aston Martin has introduced the DBX S – a new, range-topping iteration of its performance SUV – building on the DBX707 with increased power, reduced weight and further chassis improvements.

The familiar AMG sourced, twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 now delivers 717bhp and 664lb/ft of torque, thanks to a larger compressor wheel and turbo enhancements inspired by the forthcoming Valhalla supercar. While the top speed remains unchanged at 193mph, the 0–62mph sprint is trimmed to just 3.3 seconds, and Aston claims improved acceleration through the mid-range.

Though no SUV could be called featherweight, Aston Martin has directed its engineering efforts towards trimming dynamic mass – the weight that most affects how a car behaves from behind the wheel. An optional carbon fibre roof removes 18kg from the highest point of the vehicle, lowering its centre of gravity. A set of forged magnesium wheels – a first for an SUV – shaves off a further 19kg of unsprung mass, benefiting steering feel and agility. Together with the removal of roof rails and an optional lightweight polycarbonate grille, the DBX S can be up to 47kg lighter than the DBX707.

The wet-clutch nine-speed automatic gearbox has also been recalibrated for quicker responses. Revised shift mapping takes full advantage of the engine’s extended rev band, while more assertive downshifts are now offered in Sport and Sport+ modes. Torque remains fully variable, with the system capable of sending all drive to the rear axle when conditions permit.

Chassis updates are subtle yet telling. The steering ratio is now 4 per cent quicker, reducing the turning circle to 12.0 metres. Updates to the air suspension and electronic dampers – first seen in the 2024 model-year revisions – help restrain body roll to just 1.5 degrees. Braking duties are handled by standard carbon ceramic discs, measuring 420mm at the front and 390mm at the rear.

Visually, the DBX S asserts its flagship status with a blacked-out grille, new front splitter, stacked quad exhausts and a reworked rear diffuser. Carbon fibre exterior upgrades extend to the mirror caps, side sills and rear wing. Optional contrast lower-body accents in red, silver or green add a more aggressive touch.

Inside, the DBX S adopts an exclusive ‘S’ embossed interior treatment, pairing standard Alcantara with optional full-leather upholstery. Distinctive herringbone seat patterns and bespoke trim choices enhance the cabin’s premium feel. The updated infotainment system is shared with the wider DBX range and includes a 14-speaker, 800W audio system as standard. For those seeking more, a 1,600W Bowers & Wilkins setup with 23 speakers – including a subwoofer and 3D audio headliner units – is available.

The ‘S’ badge has traditionally denoted the pinnacle of Aston Martin’s GT and sports car line-up – from the V12 Vantage S to the Vanquish S, which preceded the DBS Superleggera. Now, for the first time, that designation extends to the DBX range, underlining Aston’s ambition to bring true performance credentials to its SUV offering.

Prices are estimated to start from £210,000, though official confirmation is still to come. Even at that figure, the DBX S both outmuscles and undercuts its chief rivals – the Ferrari Purosangue and Lamborghini Urus S.