2019 Aston Martin DBS Overview
The 2019 Aston Martin DBS sits at the top of the brand's lineup as a grand tourer built for high-speed comfort and aggressive styling. It carries forward the DBS name from the classic 1960s GT and brings modern aerodynamics, a carbon-fiber body, and a naturally aspirated V12 to the road. For buyers in 2019, the DBS represented the latest evolution of Aston Martin's flagship grand tourer, slotting above the DB11 and competing with Ferrari and McLaren grand tourers.
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Under the skin, the 2019 DBS shares its AMG-built 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 with the DB11 but is tuned for higher output. The result is a car that prioritizes straight-line speed and long-distance composure while still offering adjustable dynamics for spirited back-road driving.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2019 Aston Martin DBS is powered by a 5.2-liter twin-turbocharged V12 producing 630 horsepower and 515 pound-feet of torque. Power goes to the rear wheels through an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, with paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel.
Key performance figures include:
- 0–60 mph: approximately 3.4 seconds
- Top speed: 211 mph
- Transmission: eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters
- Layout: front-mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
The engine is a modified version of the unit found in the DB11, but Aston Martin recalibrated the turbochargers, exhaust, and engine management to push output higher. The eight-speed automatic is designed to shift quickly and allow the driver to hold gears during aggressive driving. The DBS also features an upgraded braking system and suspension setup compared with the DB11, with larger front calipers and stiffer springs tuned for stability at high speeds.
Exterior and Interior Design
Aston Martin gave the 2019 DBS a more aggressive stance than the DB11, with a wider front track, larger air intakes, and a pronounced rear diffuser. The carbon-fiber hood and front fenders help reduce weight at the front, while the integrated rear spoiler aids downforce. Standard wheels are 21 inches, and a full carbon-fiber body package is available on select trims.
Inside, the cabin carries over the DB11's driver-focused cockpit. A 10.25-inch touchscreen runs Aston Martin's latest infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. The interior mixes leather, Alcantara, and carbon fiber, with sports seats that offer strong lateral support. A flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and configurable drive modes complete the driver-oriented environment.
Trim Levels and Special Editions
The 2019 DBS range includes the standard DBS and the DBS Superleggera. The Superleggera is the higher-performance variant, with additional carbon-fiber components, a more aggressive aerodynamic package, and slightly different tuning that emphasizes track use while retaining grand touring comfort.
Special editions and one-off commissions were also available through Aston Martin's bespoke division, allowing buyers to specify unique exterior colors, interior materials, and carbon-fiber options. Availability varied by market, and some trims were limited to specific regions.
Common Issues and Reliability
The 2019 Aston Martin DBS is generally regarded as mechanically reliable for a car of its performance level, but owners have reported several recurring concerns:
- Infotainment system glitches, including occasional freezes and Bluetooth pairing failures
- Air suspension leaks on higher-mileage examples, particularly at the front struts
- Minor oil consumption in some V12 engines, which can require more frequent checks
- Carbon-ceramic brake wear, which can be expensive to replace
Most of these issues are manageable with regular maintenance, but they can add to ownership costs. Buyers considering a used 2019 DBS should request a full service history and inspect the suspension and electronics carefully.
Ownership Costs and Practicality
The 2019 DBS is not a low-cost car to own. Insurance premiums are high, and maintenance must be performed by Aston Martin specialists, which can make routine services expensive. Parts are costly, and the car's fuel consumption is substantial given the V12's output.
On the positive side, the DBS holds its value reasonably well for a luxury grand tourer, especially low-mileage examples and Superleggera variants. The combination of comfort, performance, and exclusivity means the car appeals to a niche market, which helps support resale prices.
Should You Buy a 2019 Aston Martin DBS?
The 2019 Aston Martin DBS is an excellent choice for buyers who want a comfortable, powerful grand tourer with a handcrafted V12 and striking design. It is less track-focused than a pure supercar but offers more performance than the DB11. If you prioritize long-distance driving comfort, exclusivity, and strong resale value, the DBS is worth considering. If daily driving costs and maintenance simplicity are your main concerns, a less expensive grand tourer may be a better fit.