New ‘ultra-luxury’ GT joins Aston DBX range

While there was plenty to like about the Aston Martin DBX S, subtle it most certainly was not. From the new software that allowed 6,000rpm throttle blips to the punchy aero enhancements, there was no doubting its status as the flagship of the DBX range. Now, for those who’d like the performance and panache of the S without quite the same visual wallop can opt for this, the new DBX GT. Consider it like an Alpine A110: the S was there as the firmer, friskier choice, then along came the GT with identical power and a slightly calmer vibe. It became the pick of the Alpine range, in fact – might the same happen here? 

On initial inspection, this might appear just another DBX, but there are key differences. The grille, for instance, is much less OTT than in the S, with horizontal vanes that incorporate the DRLs – a much neater solution than in the S, to these eyes – and a less aggressive front apron treatment. It’s still not exactly a subtle car, of course, though the GT is definitely less overt. As standard, it’ll ride on 22-inch wheels as well (23s, as come on the S, are an option), and while the exhausts are still chunky – this is the world’s most powerful pure combustion SUV, don’t forget – they’re now lower on the rear fascia. And not stacked on top of each other. Body-coloured sills, diffusers, spoilers and whatnot are trying a bit less hard than the black accents of the S. 

There are changes of perhaps even greater significance inside. Aston suggests that the update ‘introduces tactile expressions of quality, where material selection, precision and execution meet to create a luxurious interior.’ That means anodised metal rotary dials, GT-specific upholstery combos, deep-pile mats and four and half hours work – plus 691m of thread – for the driver’s seat alone. Speaking of seats, they’re now redesigned to include a 10mm memory foam layer and new cushions, as well as the fresh ‘individual rear seat layout’; the sculpting looks great for passengers three and four, less so for number five…

There’s more to a DBX cabin than just the leather and the stitching, too. Additional sound deadening has been added in the wheelarches, boot and doors, the rear side glass is laminated, and even the structure itself has been altered to reduce the amount of unwanted sound coming in. A 2,245kg kerbweight is 47kg more than an S. The result is a 13 per cent improvement for the GT in what’s called the ‘Articulation Index’ – otherwise known as how easy it is to hold a conversation in a car. It’s surely going to be an absolute pleasure to travel in. 

But hopefully, this being an Aston Martin and all, it’s still epic to drive. The engine is unchanged, 727hp and 664lb ft sufficient for 3.3 seconds to 62mph and 191mph. There is a unique throttle calibration, though, for ‘an intuitive degree of modulation’, alongside its own exhaust tune. So the GT can be discreet when required (or at least as discreet as a twin-turbo V8 can be), then ramped up to Sport and Sport+ when ‘the Aston Martin soundtrack is desired.’

The big difference is in the suspension, though, with GT-specific damper settings including a new internal valve ‘which enhances ride compliance over poor surfaces while maintaining body control when driving dynamically.’ Again, the aim is to prevent any unwanted intrusions making their way inside the DBX GT; to that end there’s also a new, stiffer transmission mount bush, plus the standard all-season tyres are said to improve compliance compared to the P Zeros of the S. New longitudinal dampers at the rear subframe for the connection to the body also feature. This is an awful lot more than the new grille and deep pile mats. 

Aston Martin CTO Ian Hoban said: “The challenge with DBX GT was achieving meaningful improvements in comfort and refinement in everyday use cases, but keeping the same class-leading reserves of performance and handling we have achieved with the DBX S. This was delivered via a combination of small but significant hardware upgrades together with a targeted suite of calibration changes to the chassis and powertrain. The results are highly satisfying; noticeable reduction in unwanted noise intrusion, greater isolation from road imperfections and a tangible uplift in refinement, but with the breathtaking performance, handling poise and driver connection for which the DBX is renowned.” Sounds pretty good from here, hopefully a best of both worlds compromise – and maybe some scope to do similar with the two-door cars in the range… 

A price for the DBX GT hasn’t been confirmed; expect it to carry a premium over the £210k DBX S. First deliveries are due before the end of the year – what a machine for ski season. And those that would like a 700hp DBX for less than that are, of course, well served by the PH classifieds: the old 707 is now a £100,000 car…