The DB11 was launched back in 2016 so a replacement for Aston Martin’s grand tourer has been a long time coming. A series of spy shots have revealed that the British firm is working its successor, which we believe will be called DB12.

Aston Martin has filed a trademark application for ‘DB12’ and while the firm refused to comment on the name’s possible use, it seems highly likely to get a run-out on the DB11 replacement. An Aston Martin spokesperson told Auto Express that: ​“Aston Martin regularly files international trademark applications to protect names for possible future use”.

Aston Martin’s range currently consists of four cars, the DBX SUV, the entry-model Vantage, the range-topping DBS and the DB11. The DB11 is the oldest car in the lineup and when it replaced the DB9 it was the first Aston Martin to receive technology from the partnership with Mercedes-Benz.

In terms of design, the DB12 is certainly an evolution of the DB11, with plenty of traditional Aston Martin stylistic touches. The test car we’ve spotted looks like it’ll retain a similar grille shape, although the chrome detailing within might be altered. There’s also camouflage on the headlights and side air intakes so expect some changes here too.

Huge brakes are visible behind t

his car’s 21-inch wheels and behind the front wheel arch we can see a vent just like the DB11’s. The C-shape rear lights are visible through the camouflage and the single-exit exhaust tips are the same as before. It’s possible this test car is using a DB11 mule body, although these images from the Nurburgring are the second time we’ve seen the DB12 under development.

The interior of the DB11 borrowed plenty of gadgetry from Mercedes, although soon became a little dated as the German firm brought out its latest MBUX infotainment system and, of course, the vast Hyperscreen offered in its larger models. Even the newer DBX’s larger 12.3-inch central screen and 10.25-inch driver’s display is a generation behind equivalent Mercedes models. We could see much of the DBX’s interior technology make its way over the DB12, however.

As for the drivetrain, Aston Martin currently offers up a 600bhp 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 or a 503bhp 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 from Mercedes. Aston Martin claimed in early 2022 that it will continue with V12-powered cars until 2026, so we expect both of the DB11’s powertrains to continue with the new model.

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