2018 Aston Martin DB11 Review

No car represents power, style and understatement quite like this silver-screen classic. The 2018 Aston Martin DB11 continues the work of its predecessors with drop-dead style, intoxicating performance, and refined European cachet. Sure, there are other lust-worthy cars on the DB11's level (a Bentley Continental GT or McLaren, perhaps), but few make driving such a dashing experience.

The DB11 is a grand touring coupe that succeeds Aston's DB9. Today's DB11 doesn't look much different than the DB9, but underneath is a revised aluminum body structure. Modern upgrades are more apparent inside the cabin, with improved materials and electronics, and underhood is a turbocharged 12-cylinder engine.

For 2018, that sublime 12-cylinder is joined by a new 503-horsepower V8 engine option sourced from Mercedes-Benz's high-performance AMG division. Aston officials say a V8-equipped DB11 is more than 200 pounds lighter than a V12-powered coupe, and that the smaller-sized engine is better centered within the car's wheelbase. The result is a car that handles with a bit more speed and precision than the larger-engine grand touring car.

Aston calls the DB11 a "2+2," which in theory means you could seat two passengers in the back. In practice, you won't want to, at least no one you consider family or friend. These are very small rear seats. No matter. A stately English grand touring car such as the DB11 needs only one other seat for a companion, a seat swathed in fine leather, decorative stitching and surrounded by a cabin swollen with luxury comforts. Sound, speed and sheer presence — the DB11 is more sensory experience than mere locomotion.