Aston Martin confirmed today that its new SUV will officially be called DBX (not Varekai) and that it is already undergoing testing on a Welsh Rally stage. So far, testing has been simulated — now things are moving into the real world.
“We have already developed and tuned DBX in the driving simulator, which has enabled us to make excellent progress in advance of the first physical prototype cars being available, said Aston Martin chief engineer, Matt Becker. “Still, it’s always a big day when you get to put the first actual miles on an early prototype, and I’m delighted with the near-perfect correlation between the simulator and this prototype. As an engineer, it’s genuinely exciting to get a feel for the car you’re working to create. The DBX is a very different kind of Aston Martin, but we will be testing it in all conditions and across all terrains to ensure it delivers a driving experience worthy of the wings badge.”
Aston notes that the DBX required a new test program, which makes sense, and that it “will perform with the verve and poise of a true Aston Martin,” but also “will extend into areas previously off-limits to the marque’s sporting roots.” That includes towing as well as dirt, snow, mud and sand — basically everything but tarmac.
You may consider this heresy, but if you do, you’re behind the times. Jag’s got an SUV; so does Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Lamborghini. And if high-selling DBX SUV models (like the Porsche Cayenne) allow for more Valkyries, DBSs and Vantages (and Porsche 911s), then more power to them.
Sidenote: Ferrari is the last domino to fall here; could the Prancing Horse be that far behind?
Speaking of power, this DBX will get a standard powertrain, probably the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 from the rest of the lineup, but look for alternative powertrains coming in the next few years too.
The DBX will be built at Aston Martin Lagonda’s St. Athan facility and will be unveiled next year.