The 707 signifies the impressive horsepower of Aston Martin’s latest iteration in the sports SUV line, the DBX 707. This achievement propels the car to claim the title of the fastest production SUV globally. Similar to the standard DBX, the 707 employs the Mercedes-AMG M177 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which typically generates 550 PS and 700 N–m of torque. However, the engineering team took on the challenge of fully unleashing the M177’s potential, resulting in a remarkable increase of 157 horsepower to reach 707 PS, and a boost of 200 N–m to reach 900 N–m. The outcome is truly astounding, accelerating from 0 to 100 Km/h in a mere 3.5 seconds and achieving a top speed of 309 km/h. It’s worth noting that while the DBX technically produces 697 horsepower in the conventional sense, the model is aptly named after the more flattering European measure of 707 “PferdStarke” PS.
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Performance highlights
To create the fastest SUV on the road, Aston Martin have had to rely on several pioneering technological breakthroughs, seamlessly integrated within their St Athan production facility in Wales. The innovative 9-speed wet clutch system facilitates faster gear shifts, outpacing conventional torque converter transmissions. Moreover, the enhanced torque loads, made feasible by state-of-the-art ball bearing turbochargers, are now expertly harnessed and seamlessly transformed into propulsive force.
With all that power, improvements to the braking system have been inevitable. The carbon ceramic brakes now measure a whopping 420mm and 390mm in the front and rear respectively. These substantial discs are firmly grasped by 6-piston calipers, culminating in a significant 40.5kg reduction in un-sprung weight. Complementing this, the double-wishbone front axle and the multi-link rear suspension, coupled with meticulously recalibrated adaptive dampers and active anti-roll bars, synergistically enhance both ride comfort and cornering prowess. These meticulously engineered modifications collectively bestow the 707 with its unparalleled performance edge.
Unmistakable style
Upon direct gaze, the DBX 707 undeniably embodies the essence of an Aston Martin, albeit with a noticeable enlargement. This expansion isn’t purely about dimensions but prominently showcased through its significantly larger front grille, hinting at the substantial and eager powerplant concealed beneath the bonnet. The 30 percent increase in size compared to the standard DBX grille not only facilitates an 80% augmentation in airflow to the engine block but also proves insufficient. To ensure optimal functioning of the M177 engine, supplementary twin-stacked auxiliary radiators adorn the sides.
The rear of the DBX presents a departure from the familiar. A colossal twin diffuser ascends, harmonizing with the entirely novel, generously proportioned quad exhaust system. Above, a fresh lip spoiler has been introduced to the roof wing, contributing to diminished uplift and heightened stability at high speed. While the DBX 707 retains its distinctive signature contours, they are imbued with a slightly heavier, artfully sculpted look.
Driver-focused credentials
The interior seamlessly merges a sporty aesthetic with the hallmark luxury synonymous with Aston Martin. The front comes standard with 16-way electrically adjustable Sport seats, embodying both comfort and performance. The focal point is the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, accompanied by customizable ambient lighting. The central console, while bustling, grants easy access for fine-tuning essential systems. However, a glaring drawback is the outdated infotainment system present in all units. Its solitary saving grace lies in its compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enabling users to circumvent its limitations. The remainder of the interior is adorned with exquisitely stitched leather and abundant soft-touch surfaces. The boot space maintains the high standards, boasting a generous 638-liter capacity, capacious enough for multiple golf bags. For those with more distinct preferences, Aston Martin offers the Q line – an in-house collection of exclusive products ranging from bespoke luggage to intricate carbon fiber accents. The comprehensive and exquisite selection of colors, trims, materials and finishes provides ample room for personalized choices.
Final thoughts
The Luxury Sport SUV segment finds itself in the midst of a growing crowd, and amidst this competition emerges the DBX 707, exuding an abundance of meticulously crafted interior luxury harmonizing with astonishing performance, a remarkable feat considering its dimensions. With an average price tag of AED 850,000, it occupies a loftier price bracket compared to the Bentley Bentayga and Lamborghini Urus, yet falls short of the recently unveiled Ferrari Purosangue – each a direct contender in this field. The DBX 707 boldly signifies a paradigm shift for Aston Martin; this formidable, audacious, and unrestrained powerhouse stands in stark contrast to the subdued self-assurance exhibited by Aston models of yesteryears. As Aston Martin ventures into new market segments, embracing this change seems only fitting.
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