Aston DBS now available as four-seater, with Touchtronic
Author: Robin Brown
Published: 30 September 2008
Aston Martin has has announced a number of upgrades to the flagship 6.0-litre V12 DBS, including the introduction of a ‘Touchtronic 2’ transmission and the option of a four-seat DBS.
A new Bang & Olufsen audio system, the availability of 2+2 seating and a new lightweight wheel option will also be available.
The Touctronic 2 six-speed auto transmission will be an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gearbox, re-engineered from the DB9 unit to accommodate the power and performance characteristics of the DBS.
The DBS Touchtronic transmission features a final drive ratio shortened from 3.15:1 to 3.46:1, aiding quicker acceleration times and an improved performance feel, while allowing for more aggressive gear shifts.
The new autobox matches the manual's 0-60mph time of 4.3 seconds. System functionality is consistent with that on the DB9, with ‘Park’, ‘Reverse’, ‘Neutral’ and ‘Drive’ modes selected via facia mounted controls.
When in ‘Drive’ mode, pulling either paddles activates Touchtronic mode, enabling the driver to control gear shifts via the paddles.
Touchtronic mode is also accessible directly on engine start-up or directly from ‘Reverse’.
Alternatively, the ‘Drive’ mode can be selected at any time by pressing the ‘D’ control on the centre console, engaging a fully automatic mode which will select the most appropriate gear for the speed and driving conditions automatically.
‘Sport’ mode can be activated by a button on the centre console and engages a more aggressive gear shift strategy, while engine speed matching on downshifts is more aggressive and in full automatic mode, upshifts occur at higher speeds.
The Sport setting also incorporates a more responsive throttle map to match the high-performance characteristics of the DBS.
The DBS will now also benefit from the installation of a new Bang & Olufsen BeoSound system – developed specifically for the DBS – as standard equipment.
Producing a total power output of 1000W, it delivers the sound image through a total of 13 channels across 10 speaker locations.
The DBS will now also be offered with an optional 2+2 seating configuration, where the rear storage areas are replaced with two seats. A 2+0 arrangement remains standard.
Also introduced to the DBS is the option of a new 10-spoke 20’’ forged aluminium wheel with diamond-turned surface – available in either silver or graphite finishes.
Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “The DBS is the ultimate expression of Aston Martin’s engineering and technical ability. It offers pure performance without compromise.”
Prices for the DBS start at £162,500 for the six-speed manual and £165,500 for the Touchtronic.
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