More Hardcore Aston Martin DB12 Spotted Testing: A New Era of Super Tourer Performance

Introduction

Aston Martin, the iconic British automaker synonymous with luxury, performance, and James Bond’s impeccable taste, is pushing the boundaries of its grand tourer legacy with a new, more hardcore version of the DB12. Recently spotted undergoing rigorous testing at the Nürburgring, this prototype—rumored to carry the AMR badge or possibly a new “S” designation—promises to elevate the DB12’s already impressive credentials. With visual upgrades, potential power boosts, and a chassis tuned for sharper dynamics, this high-performance variant is poised to redefine what a “super tourer” can achieve. This article delves into the details of the prototype, its significance in Aston Martin’s lineup, and what enthusiasts can expect from this exhilarating evolution.

A Glimpse of the Hardcore DB12 Prototype

The Nürburgring, the legendary German racetrack known as the “Green Hell,” is a proving ground for the world’s most ambitious performance cars. It’s no surprise that Aston Martin chose this challenging circuit to test its latest creation. Spy shots captured in April 2025 reveal a DB12 prototype with distinct modifications, signaling a more aggressive and driver-focused iteration. Key visual changes include:

Revised Front End: The prototype sports a new front splitter with miniature slats at each end, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency. The grille swaps the standard DB12’s horizontal bars for an egg-crate design, reminiscent of Aston Martin’s classic racing cars, suggesting improved cooling for a potentially more powerful engine.
Side Profile Enhancements: Wider 21-inch wheels, similar to those on the new Vanquish, are paired with more defined sill extensions, giving the car a lower, more muscular stance.
Rear Upgrades: The most striking change is at the rear, where the standard DB12’s dual exhausts are replaced with stacked quad exhaust tips, a design cue previously seen on high-performance models like the Ferrari California. A small, fixed Gurney flap replaces the active spoiler, hinting at increased downforce for track-focused stability.
Camouflage and Disguise: While heavily wrapped in camouflage, the prototype’s uncovered grille and exhausts suggest a need for greater airflow, fueling speculation about a more potent powertrain.

These modifications indicate that Aston Martin is not merely tweaking the DB12 but crafting a variant that bridges the gap between grand tourer comfort and supercar aggression.

The DB12: A Foundation for Performance

To understand the significance of this hardcore variant, it’s worth revisiting the standard DB12, which debuted in May 2023 as the successor to the DB11. Billed as the “world’s first super tourer,” the DB12 combines breathtaking design, luxurious interiors, and formidable performance. Powered by a Mercedes-AMG-sourced 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, the DB12 delivers 671 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph. Its bonded aluminum structure, enhanced by a 7% increase in rigidity over the DB11, provides a solid platform for dynamic handling, while Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers and an electronic rear differential ensure agility on twisty roads.

The DB12’s interior is equally impressive, featuring a new in-house infotainment system with a 10.3-inch touchscreen, hand-stitched leather, and optional Bowers & Wilkins audio. Critics have praised its balance of luxury and performance, positioning it as a competitor to the Ferrari Roma, Porsche 911 Turbo, and Bentley Continental GT. However, Aston Martin’s pursuit of a more hardcore variant suggests the company is aiming to carve out a distinct niche for enthusiasts seeking uncompromised thrills.

Speculation on Powertrain: V8 or V12?

One of the most intriguing questions surrounding the hardcore DB12 is its powertrain. The standard DB12 relies on a twin-turbo V8, but rumors suggest this prototype could revive the V12 engine, a hallmark of Aston Martin’s flagship models. The quad exhausts and uncovered grille, which imply a need for greater cooling, have led some to speculate that a 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12—similar to the 824-hp unit in the new Vanquish—could be under the hood.

However, others believe Aston Martin will stick with the V8, potentially boosting output to around 697 hp, matching the DBX707 SUV. Software tweaks to the eight-speed automatic transmission and electronic differential, along with recalibrated adaptive dampers, could further enhance performance. The V12’s inclusion would be a bold statement, but emissions regulations and the DB12’s positioning below the Vanquish in Aston Martin’s lineup make a high-output V8 more likely. Regardless, the prototype’s aggressive styling and track-focused upgrades suggest a significant performance leap.

Chassis and Handling: Sharpened for the Track

Aston Martin’s engineers, led by Director of Vehicle Performance Simon Newton, have a clear goal: to preserve the DB12’s grand tourer refinement while infusing it with supercar agility. The standard DB12 already benefits from a stiffer chassis, adaptive dampers, and Michelin Pilot Sport 5S tires with a bespoke compound. The hardcore variant is expected to take this further with:

Uprated Suspension: Stiffer coil springs and retuned Bilstein DTX dampers will likely reduce body roll and improve cornering precision, building on the setup used in the DBS 770 Ultimate.
Carbon-Ceramic Brakes: Optional on the standard DB12, these lightweight brakes may become standard, offering superior stopping power and fade resistance during track sessions.
Aerodynamic Enhancements: The new splitter, sill extensions, and rear Gurney flap suggest a focus on downforce, ensuring stability at high speeds.
Wider Tracks: The prototype’s wider wheels and increased track width (6mm front, 22mm rear over the DB11) enhance grip and handling balance.

These upgrades align with Aston Martin’s ambition to compete with the Ferrari Roma and Porsche 911 Turbo, which offer sharper dynamics than traditional grand tourers. The hardcore DB12 could rival these models on the track while retaining the comfort needed for long-distance cruising.

The AMR Legacy: A Badge of Performance

The prototype’s modifications and Nürburgring testing strongly suggest it will carry the AMR badge, Aston Martin Racing’s designation for its most driver-focused models. Previous AMR variants, like the DB11 AMR and Vantage AMR, featured increased power, stiffer suspensions, and track-oriented upgrades. The DB12 AMR could follow suit, offering a more visceral driving experience without sacrificing the elegance that defines Aston Martin.

Alternatively, some sources speculate the variant could be dubbed “DB12 S,” drawing on Aston Martin’s history of using the “S” badge for performance models. Regardless of the name, this model will likely appeal to enthusiasts who crave a more engaging drive, positioning it as a bridge between the standard DB12 and the supercar-like Vanquish.

Aston Martin’s Strategic Vision

The development of a hardcore DB12 reflects Aston Martin’s broader strategy under Chairman Lawrence Stroll and CEO Adrian Hallmark. Since Stroll’s acquisition, the company has focused on elevating performance, modernizing technology, and differentiating its models. The DB12, as the first major model of this era, set the tone with its “super tourer” positioning. The hardcore variant builds on this, showcasing Aston Martin’s commitment to catering to diverse customer preferences—from luxury-oriented buyers to track-day enthusiasts.

The prototype’s testing also coincides with Aston Martin’s renewed emphasis on its V12 engine, as seen in the Vanquish. While the DB12’s V12 inclusion remains uncertain, the company’s investment in its twin-turbo V12 suggests a desire to maintain its heritage while meeting modern performance demands. Additionally, Aston Martin’s in-house infotainment system, debuted in the DB12, addresses past criticisms of outdated Mercedes-sourced technology, ensuring the hardcore variant will offer a cutting-edge cabin.

Competitive Landscape

The hardcore DB12 will enter a fiercely competitive segment, facing off against:

Ferrari Roma: With its 612-hp V8 and sharp handling, the Roma blends supercar dynamics with grand tourer refinement. The DB12 AMR’s potential power advantage and luxurious interior could give it an edge.
Porsche 911 Turbo S: Boasting 640 hp and all-wheel-drive grip, the 911 Turbo S is a benchmark for performance. The DB12’s front-engine layout and distinctive styling offer a different flavor.
Bentley Continental GT: While more luxury-focused, the Continental GT’s 650-hp W12 and plush cabin compete with the DB12’s grand tourer credentials. The hardcore DB12 will prioritize sportiness to stand out.

By offering a unique blend of British craftsmanship, aggressive styling, and track-ready performance, the hardcore DB12 aims to carve its own niche in this crowded field.

Challenges and Expectations

Despite its promise, the hardcore DB12 faces challenges. Some early DB12 owners reported issues with the new infotainment system, citing buggy software and unresponsive controls. Aston Martin must ensure these glitches are resolved in the high-performance variant to maintain its premium reputation. Additionally, the prototype’s development must balance track-focused upgrades with the refinement expected of a DB model, avoiding the overly stiff ride that could alienate grand tourer buyers.

Enthusiasts and critics alike have high expectations. The DB12’s stunning design, visceral V8 (or potential V12), and modernized interior have already earned praise. The hardcore variant must deliver on its Nürburgring promise, offering a driving experience that matches its aggressive looks. If successful, it could redefine Aston Martin’s performance credentials and solidify the DB12’s status as a modern icon.

Conclusion

The sighting of a hardcore Aston Martin DB12 testing at the Nürburgring is a thrilling development for enthusiasts and a bold statement from the British automaker. With its redesigned front end, quad exhausts, and track-focused upgrades, this prototype—whether dubbed AMR or S—promises to push the DB12 into new territory. By blending supercar dynamics with grand tourer luxury, Aston Martin aims to create a “super tourer” that rivals the Ferrari Roma, Porsche 911 Turbo, and Bentley Continental GT.

As testing continues, anticipation builds for what could be one of Aston Martin’s most exciting models yet. Whether powered by a high-output V8 or a thunderous V12, the hardcore DB12 will embody the brand’s heritage of elegance and performance. For now, the Nürburgring’s twists and turns are shaping a car that could redefine the DB legacy for a new generation.