# Aston Martin DBX S Review: A Brutal, Luxury Performance SUV The Aston Martin DBX was a bold first step for the British marque into the luxury SUV segment. Now, the formula is supercharged with the introduction of the **DBX S**. Packing a colossal 727 horsepower, this is not just an update; it's a statement of intent. But does adding more power make it the ultimate performance SUV, or does it upset the delicate balance of grand touring luxury? We find out. ## Design: British Elegance Meets Muscular Presence Aston Martin has always been synonymous with sleek, timeless design, and the DBX translates that language to a larger canvas. The front is dominated by the signature grille, flanked by sleek headlights that give it a purposeful glare. The long bonnet, short overhangs, and sweeping roofline preserve a sporty silhouette unusual in the SUV world. The **DBX S** distinguishes itself with subtle but effective styling cues. A unique front grille with a darker mesh finish, carbon fibre exterior accents, and a specific rear diffuser hint at its enhanced performance. It’s an exercise in restraint—this is not a brash, aggressive machine. Instead, it exudes a refined, muscular elegance that stands out in a sea of German competitors. Its road presence is undeniable, but it arrives with a quiet confidence rather than a shout. ## Interior: Craftsmanship and Grand Touring Comfort Stepping inside the DBX is an event. The cabin is a showcase of hand-stitched leather, genuine metal switchgear, and beautifully crafted materials. It feels like a bespoke British club, with a level of craftsmanship that mass-production rivals struggle to match. The seats are supremely comfortable, offering ample support whether you're navigating city traffic or long motorway journeys. Technology takes a backseat to traditional luxury but remains fully modern. A central infotainment screen (often sourced from Mercedes-Benz) provides access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings. While the interface isn't the most flashy, it is functional and reliable. The true star is the ambiance—the view over the long bonnet, the solid thunk of the doors, and the muted cocoon of the cabin create a truly special environment for driver and passengers alike. Practicality is decent, with reasonable rear legroom and a usable boot, though it may not match the sheer volume of its most utilitarian rivals. ## Performance: Where the "S" Earns Its Name This is where the DBX S truly separates itself. Under the bonnet lies a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, the same fundamental unit found in Mercedes-AMG models, but extensively reworked by Aston Martin engineers. In this specification, it delivers a staggering **707 bhp (or 727 PS)**. The result is explosive, relentless acceleration. Rory Reid’s initial experience sliding into the driver’s seat perfectly captures its character: it is **brutal**. The power delivery is visceral, pinning you to the seat as it charges towards the horizon with a thunderous V8 soundtrack. A nine-speed automatic gearbox and an intelligent all-wheel-drive system ensure this immense power