Aston Martin DB12 Volante Review: The Ultimate GT Expression
Should the ultimate grand tourer be a drop top? This is a question that many car enthusiasts have debated over the years. During a recent drive back from Leeds in the Aston Martin DB12 coupe with my dad, we found ourselves pondering this very question. The football match we had just witnessed provided zero talking points, so our conversation turned to the topic of long journeys and what makes a super GT truly exceptional. As someone who believes that super tourers like the DB12 are the pinnacle of motoring, I am not particularly fussed about whether it has a hard top or a soft top. However, the experience of driving the Aston Martin DB12 Volante around town on a warm August day made me reassess my thoughts on the matter. The question of whether a convertible adds to the overall driving experience is one that I was reminded of during my time with the DB12 Volante.
The Aston Martin DB12 Volante is undeniably a special car. It boasts a stunning design, a powerful engine, and a luxurious interior that all come together to create a truly remarkable vehicle. With the top down, the DB12 Volante exudes a sense of elegance and sophistication that is hard to match. The combination of Caribbean Pearl paint and a white interior gives the car a nautical feel, making it stand out in a crowd without being overly ostentatious. People are drawn to the DB12 Volante, admiring its beauty rather than trying to engage in a race.
When it comes to convertibles, the appeal lies more in the overall vibe and aesthetic than in sheer performance. While they may not be as focused on speed and precision as their coupe counterparts, convertibles offer a unique driving experience that is all about enjoying the journey rather than reaching a destination in record time. In 2024, however, it is possible to have the best of both worlds. The Aston Martin DB12 Volante may be slightly heavier than the coupe, but the difference is negligible in everyday driving. The car is still incredibly fast, capable of leaving most other vehicles in its dust without breaking a sweat.
Living with the Aston Martin DB12 Volante is a truly luxurious experience. The car’s color scheme and open-air driving experience make every journey feel more relaxed and laid back. Even our new family pet, a tortoise named Rocky, seemed perfectly content riding in the DB12 Volante with the top down. Despite the wind noise at motorway speeds, the cabin remains surprisingly quiet, allowing for easy conversation even with a six-year-old and a tortoise in tow.
One of the standout features of the DB12 Volante is its Bowers & Wilkins surround sound audio system, which ensures that you can enjoy your music in remarkable clarity even at high speeds. The roof can be raised or lowered at speeds of up to 31mph, providing added convenience for drivers who want to enjoy the open air without compromising on comfort. While the eight-layer fabric roof does impact boot space, it is a small sacrifice to make for the pleasure of driving with the top down.
In terms of performance, the Aston Martin DB12 Volante is no slouch. Powered by a 4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 671bhp and 800Nm of torque, the car is capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in just 3.6 seconds. The different drive modes allow for a customizable driving experience, with Sport and Sport+ modes delivering a more spirited and dynamic performance compared to the more relaxed GT mode. The car’s steering is precise and accurate, providing a sense of confidence and control even when pushing the car to its limits.
While the Aston Martin DB12 Volante excels on long cruises and open roads, it is also capable of handling twisty B-roads with ease. The car’s weight and purpose become apparent when following a more nimble sports car, but its true strength lies in its ability to effortlessly cover long distances with style and grace. Whether you are looking to make a statement on the open road or simply enjoy a leisurely drive through the countryside, the DB12 Volante delivers on all fronts.
Overall, the Aston Martin DB12 Volante is a truly exceptional car that combines stunning design, exceptional performance, and unmatched luxury. While there may be some minor drawbacks, such as limited storage space and a slightly fiddly infotainment system, these are mere footnotes in an otherwise flawless package. Aston Martin has truly outdone themselves with the DB12 Volante, creating a vehicle that is as beautiful as it is powerful.
In conclusion, the Aston Martin DB12 Volante is the ultimate expression of a grand tourer. Whether you opt for the coupe or the convertible, you can rest assured that you are driving a truly exceptional vehicle that delivers on all fronts. Aesthetics, performance, and luxury all come together in perfect harmony in the DB12 Volante, making it a standout choice for discerning drivers who demand the best in every aspect of their driving experience.