2014 Aston Martin DBS

To the untrained eye, the spy shots of this latest Aston Martin mule have fueled speculation that the British automaker was busy at work on the next generation DB9, the oldest car in its lineup. But in truth, what’s beneath the tape is actually a revamp of the range-topping DBS coupe, which replaced the Vanquish back in 2007. Dealers have been informed that an all-new 2014 Aston Martin DBS will arrive early next year. In the interim, a limited run of 100 DBS Ultimate models will be built to end the current car’s production run. The Ultimate models will build on the exclusivity of the earlier released Carbon package, with bespoke interior accents and features.

2014 Aston Martin DBS

A DBS With One-77 Cues
Leaner and edgier, the 2014 DBS is clearly influenced by the One-77 supercar. The form features more sharply defined character lines, a hint of curves that wrap through the rear fenders, and a revised roofline. The taped front fascia also hides a larger grille opening and auxiliary inlets with mesh inserts that also recall the sold-out supercar of which only 77 examples were built. Aston has also repositioned the side mirrors, moving them from the side windows onto the doors with a mounting arm that mimics the one used on the One-77. Another feature derived from the supercar is the aerodynamically stepped side sills.

2014 Aston Martin DBS

Revamped Engine and Interior
In addition to the changes in visual cues, Aston is said to be giving the DBS a boost in power from its 5.9-liter V-12, which currently puts out 510 bhp—perhaps to something in the realm of 600 bhp. The DBS will most likely again offer a choice of a 6-speed manual and the automated single-clutch manual gearbox, as evidenced by the paddle shifters.
Sources say the interior has also been redesigned for improved ergonomics. Although the instrument cluster and center stack look similar to the current car’s, right down to the Emotional Control Unit—Aston’s trademark crystal key fob.
Official photos of the 2014 Aston Martin DBS may come as soon as June.