Aston Martin DBX review - Engines, performance and drive
Fantastic Mercedes-AMG power combined with Aston Martin chassis technology, means the DBX goes and handles like a dream.
There’s no getting away from the fact that the DBX is a big, heavy SUV, so it’s fortunate to have had the expertise of one of the best sports car makers in the world to hone its development. Despite weighing over 2.2 tonnes, the DBX remains light on its feet and, in a hugely talented class, it feels more in keeping with a fast estate like an Audi RS6 Avant or Mercedes-AMG E 63 - possibly even an RS4 or C63. It’s that nimble and agile for its size.
Aside from using the 4.0-litre V8 engine from Mercedes-AMG, the Aston Martin engineers have also equipped the DBX with a host of impressive tech trickery to ensure it cuts the mustard on tight, twisty roads. Features such as triple-
chamber air suspension, electronic adaptive dampers and a 48v electric anti-roll control system (called eARC) are just some of the reasons why the DBX triumphs over its rivals in the handling stakes.
There are six driving modes available for the DBX, although the Individual setting could well be the preferred option. Here you can tune the chassis and steering to comfort, up the response from the engine and gearbox and have the exhaust on its most tuneful setting - just perfect.
The DBX’s steering is quick with plenty of feel to help you recognise if you’ve pushed things a bit too far. More important is the car’s ability to respond swiftly to throttle inputs, delivering a healthy and linear dose of power.
Engines, 0-60 acceleration and top speed
The DBX isn’t the quickest super-SUV in a straight line - its 4.0-litre V8 petrol unit produces 542bhp and manages 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds. It’s still a rapid sprint time, although not quite up to the 3.6-second dash set by the Lamborghini Urus. Top speed for the DBX is 181mph.
