Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Aston Martin DBX
SUV · Gas · 3 versions · owner report
Ranked #8 of 10 luxury full-size SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (310 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided.
5 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentSevere electrical system failures
Recurrent 12V/48V system warnings, complete battery drain, vehicle refusing to start, requiring multiple dealer visits and tows.
- Very frequentGeneral poor reliability / build quality
Multiple issues including loose shields causing rattles, failed window actuators, cracking subwoofer brackets, windscreen wipers detaching, and doors/windows misaligned from factory.
- RecurrentOutdated/inferior technology
Criticisms of the older Mercedes COMAND infotainment system (in pre-refresh models), lack of modern driver assistance features (e.g., semi-autonomous driving) compared to German competitors.
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentHigh maintenance and service costs
Basic service quoted at $1,500+, alignments at $600, with major services around $3,000.
- RecurrentSignificant depreciation
Noted as severe, making CPO purchases financially advantageous.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim. The DBX 707 high-performance variant is mentioned in the context of performance targets and a planned successor (DBX S). One owner who moved from an X5M Competition to a DBX 707 noted it was faster and more aggressive but less well-developed as an overall vehicle.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Porsche Cayenne (including Turbo GT), Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, Audi RS7 and Porsche Taycan (GTS Sports Turismo).
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided. The vehicle is universally praised for its stunning exterior design, with frequent mentions of its gorgeous appearance, beautiful color options, and the "exotic shock factor" it provides. The interior is also noted for its "absolutely amazing" quality and materials. However, this positive sentiment is heavily counterbalanced by very frequent and severe criticisms regarding reliability and build quality. Numerous owners report persistent and debilitating electrical issues, including repeated 12V and 48V system failures leading to complete vehicle shutdowns, malfunction warnings, and frequent dealer visits. Additional complaints cite poor initial build quality, such as misaligned doors/windows and parts falling off. The consensus indicates deep appreciation for the vehicle's aesthetics and performance when it functions, but profound frustration and regret due to chronic, unresolved mechanical and electronic problems that severely impact ownership experience.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a high-performance luxury SUV with superior aesthetics and an exotic brand cachet compared to more common German rivals. It is frequently compared to the Lamborghini Urus and Bentley Bentayga, with owners noting it offers comparable performance and a more striking design than the Porsche Cayenne. However, it is consistently criticized for lagging far behind key competitors in technology (notably the outdated Mercedes COMAND infotainment system in earlier models), reliability, and daily usability. The vehicle is seen as a less practical and more troublesome alternative to the BMW X5M or Porsche Cayenne, trading proven day-to-day competence for style and brand prestige.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient specific configuration data from owner discussions. One piece of advice suggests avoiding black exterior paint if infrequent washing is planned, as it shows dirt and scratches easily. There is a strong, recurrent recommendation to purchase the vehicle with a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) warranty or an extended warranty due to the high frequency of issues. Leasing is also mentioned as a strategic option to avoid long-term depreciation and reliability concerns.
General recommendations
Only recommended for buyers who prioritize exterior design and brand prestige above all else and who have high tolerance for inconvenience. Strongly advised to purchase as a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle to secure warranty coverage, or to lease new to limit exposure to depreciation and long-term problems. An extended warranty is considered essential. Not recommended as a sole, primary vehicle due to reliability risks and potentially limited dealer service network accessibility. Prospective buyers should thoroughly verify warranty status and be prepared for frequent dealership visits for repairs. Consider it as a secondary vehicle alongside a more reliable daily driver.
Remarks
The DBX is critically important to Aston Martin's financial health, described as needing to become the "Porsche Cayenne" of their lineup. However, owner reports and financial analysis indicate its sales have struggled, potentially impacted by the reliability reputation. A major mid-cycle update was anticipated, including a new interior/infotainment, engine upgrades, and suspension tweaks, with the DBX S mentioned as the successor to the 707. The financial context of Aston Martin is frequently discussed by owners, with notes of heavy losses, high debt, and significant discounts being offered on new models to stimulate sales. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions and financial commentaries.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
Recall notices7 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · tires:pressure monitoring and regulating systemscampaign 26V187000
Aston Martin The Americas (Aston Martin) is recalling certain 2025-2026 DBX and 2026 DBX S vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light may not illuminate as intended, failing to warn drivers that one or more tires may be underinflated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
2025 · engine and engine cooling:engine:oil/lubrication:pipes, hoses, and fittingscampaign 24V712000
Aston Martin The Americas (Aston Martin) is recalling certain 2024-2025 DBX707, 2024-2025 DB12, and 2025 Vantage vehicles. The engine oil cooler hose may split during vehicle operation, resulting in a loss of oil and oil pressure.
2025 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 25V001000
Aston Martin The Americas (Aston Martin) is recalling certain 2024-2025 DB12, 2025 Vantage, and 2025 DBX707 vehicles. The rearview camera image may be obstructed by the infotainment home screen menu when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2025 · suspension:rearcampaign 26V200000
Aston Martin The Americas (Aston Martin) is recalling certain 2026 DBX S, 2023-2026 DBX707, and 2021-2024 DBX vehicles. The pin for the torque reaction link may slide out of the rear lower suspension arm, causing the rear lower suspension arm casting to crack or shear.
2024 · engine and engine cooling:cooling system:hoses/lines/piping/fittingscampaign 24V249000
Aston Martin The Americas (Aston Martin) is recalling certain 2023-2024 DBX707 vehicles. An oil hose for the oil cooler may burst, resulting in a sudden loss of oil and oil pressure.
2024 · electrical system:wiring:fuses and circuit breakerscampaign 24V255000
Aston Martin The Americas (Aston Martin) is recalling certain 2021-2024 DBX vehicles. Electrical cables in the battery fuse box may be loose, which can result in an engine stall, or a loss of headlights and/or power steering.
2024 · suspension:rearcampaign 26V200000
Aston Martin The Americas (Aston Martin) is recalling certain 2026 DBX S, 2023-2026 DBX707, and 2021-2024 DBX vehicles. The pin for the torque reaction link may slide out of the rear lower suspension arm, causing the rear lower suspension arm casting to crack or shear.
Specifications
S 4.0 V8
4.0L 8-cylinder · 727 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2025–2026