Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (325 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided.
7 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPersistent software and electronic faults triggering "check engine" warnings
Requires multiple dealer visits and software updates shipped from the UK, with problems recurring shortly after "fixes.".
- Very frequentExcessive depreciation
- RecurrentPoor low-speed drivability and NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness)
Turbo lag below 3000 RPM, unpleasant belt and pulley noises at low speeds, lack of exhaust note until high throttle, frustrating in traffic.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentFront-end scraping
Low front clearance leads to scraping on common obstacles like driveways and speed bumps.
- RecurrentPoor real-world fuel economy
Described as "absolutely horrific.".
- IsolatedSevere drivetrain/engine malfunction
In at least one case, causing the entire car to shake, inability to accelerate beyond ~15 mph (24 km/h), "reduced engine performance" warning, and risk of stalling.
- IsolatedRecall for hose replacement
One owner reported an 8-day shop visit for this recall.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific trim (e.g., coupe vs. Volante, base vs. S) as the "best." Discussions focus on the core DB12 model. The forthcoming DB12 S is mentioned as a likely performance-oriented variant.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ferrari Roma, Bentley Continental GT, McLaren GT, Mercedes-AMG GT and Lexus LC500.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided. The DB12 is universally praised for its stunning exterior design, which is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful modern cars, and for a significantly improved, modern interior that corrects the shortcomings of previous generations. It is described by some owners as the best car Aston Martin has ever made, offering incredible driving dynamics on back roads and open highways. However, this is heavily counterbalanced by very frequent and severe reports of reliability and software issues, particularly in early ownership. Multiple owners describe persistent "check engine" warnings, software update failures requiring lengthy dealer visits, and in at least one severe case, a complete drivetrain failure with reduced engine performance, shaking, and an inability to accelerate. The consensus indicates deep satisfaction with the car's aesthetics and driving experience when it functions correctly, but profound frustration and disappointment over its propensity for faults, undermining the ownership dream.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a modern, front-engined grand tourer that emphasizes stunning design and a revamped interior over outright track performance. It is frequently compared to the Bentley Continental GT, with some owners viewing the DB12 as more characterful and visually appealing, though the Bentley is noted for superior interior usability and perceived reliability. Versus the Porsche 911, it is seen as a more emotional, design-focused choice for those who find the 911 common or boring, but it is explicitly acknowledged as being outperformed by models like the 911 Turbo for less money. Compared to the Ferrari Roma, some feedback suggests the DB12 offers a more modern and functional interior. It is consistently noted that competitors like Porsche and Ferrari benefit from significantly stronger resale value.
Recommended configurations
Owners who have purchased used examples strongly recommend seeking out nearly new vehicles with low mileage, citing the availability of significant discounts off the original MSRP: one report mentions a $70,000 discount on a car with 550 miles. This is presented as a key strategy to mitigate the model's steep depreciation. An extended warranty is implicitly recommended due to widespread reliability concerns. There is no consensus on specific options, colors, or drivetrains from the available data.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers who prioritize breathtaking design and grand touring character over absolute reliability and resale value. Strongly recommended to purchase nearly new at a steep discount to offset immediate depreciation. Essential to have a reputable dealer/service center nearby and to budget for potential downtime. Not recommended as a primary daily driver for city or urban use; owners report it is "terrible" in such conditions due to low-speed drivability issues, excessive front-end scraping, unpleasant low-RPM engine noises, and poor fuel economy. It is described as excelling only on open, twisty roads with no traffic. Prospective buyers are advised to test drive extensively in low-speed scenarios to evaluate livability. Leasing may be a prudent option given depreciation and reliability risks.
Remarks
The severe software and reliability issues appear concentrated in early production units, with one owner's troubles beginning at approximately 2,000 miles. The company's shift to its own in-house infotainment system (from prior Mercedes-sourced systems) is cited in discussions as a root cause for software integration problems that impacted initial production and sales projections. The powertrain uses a Mercedes-AMG sourced V8 engine, which does not insulate the vehicle from the reported electronic and software faults. The DB12's dramatic depreciation is a major point of concern and a primary driver behind the recommendation to purchase nearly new. The vehicle's character is definitively that of a grand tourer for open roads, not an urban commuter. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions and experiences.
Specifications
S 4.0 V8
4.0L 8-cylinder · 700 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2025–2026