Aston Martin DBS Touchtronic

What‘s it? This can be a lightly enhanced version from the quite splendid Aston Martin DBS coupe. Here we’re testing the optional Touchtronic 2 (that’s automatic to me and you ) transmission. Also on offer with the revised Aston Martin DBS options list are +2 rear seats set up from the standard little storage bins, lighter 20-inch wheels and - now as standard - a 1000W 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo. What’s it like? Still quite splendid, truth be told. Much from the appeal from the manual Aston Martin DBS, which is really a small bruiser next to a number of its rivals, is it’s old-fashioned charm. Thankfully the automatic version hasn’t compromised any one of that appeal. The gearbox is really a six-speed ZF unit, much such as the one fitted towards the Aston Martin DB9, with a couple of tweaks : including less final drive and recalibrated shifts, more aggressive to suit the DBS’s feisty nature. It shifts gears alright too. Because it’s a conventional auto, Touchtronic 2 doesn’t possess the control and precision in an outstanding automated manual, but its shift times are great and also the torque converter lock-up is quick. It’s no slusher : it really fires the gears home. Must you want it, manual control is as simple as magnesium paddles behind the steering wheel and, although this gearbox robs the driver of the best interaction of the manual shift, gone too is that the manual’s sometimes clunky shift, and also the V12 engine’s slightly springy, zingy and non-linear throttle response at low revs. So it’s a simpler and, in several ways, more rewarding drivetrain to make use of. It allows you to concentrate more about the remainder of the excellent Aston Martin DBS package : a firm, controlled ride ; approachable, surprisingly playful handling having a fine chassis balance ; and well-weighted, nicely geared and accurate steering. The 510bhp V12 makes an excellent noise and Aston claims that, mated towards the six-speed auto, the 0-62mph acceleration time of 4. 3sec is unchange ; likewise the highest speed of 191mph. It certainly feels as quick like the manual. And the choices? You’ll know yourself in case you needed the +2 seats and, as the wheels save 8kg overall, the fact they look brilliant is perhaps likely why most customers will choose them. The Bang & Olufsen stereo, meanwhile, is really a thing of wonder. Should I buy one? Absolutely. Big grand tourers which will conduct the track day and supercar thing are few and far between and also the Aston is nearly as good as any. The auto option upon the Aston Martin DBS adds three grand and, although a few our testers bemoaned the loss from the outright interaction, just as much thought the advantages outweighed that loss. Place it this manner – in case you generally drive on great driving roads and track days, eliminate the manual. In case you spend an equal period of time on rubbish roads, eliminate the auto. In either case, the Aston Martin DBS is really a lovely section of kit. Which Bang & Olufsen stereo is awesome. Aston Martin DBS Touchtronic