The Aston Martin DB11 has once again been spotted undergoing altitude testing in the Alps. This successor for the DB9 seems to be in its early phases of development and is expected to be unveiled in the second half of next year, as a 2017 model.
The new DB11 will be heavily influenced by the DB10, which is a bespoke two-door coupe specifically created for the next James Bond movie, titled as ‘Spectre’. The gaping wide front grille gives us a glimpse of the car’s massive radiator, though the production model will get a more complete design. While the current Aston Martin range is built around the VH (Vertical Horizontal) platform developed during the Ford era, the new DB11 will be underpinned by completely a new versatile platform.
As the British manufacturer’s deal with Ford for the supply of engines was recently extended up to 2018, we expect Aston Martin to continue using the current V12 powertrain in the new DB11. However, this chassis will be compatible with both naturally aspirated and twin-turbocharged engines, and will also be used in a number of other Aston Martin cars. The DB11 will compete with other grand tourers like the Bentley Continental GT and the Maserati Gran Turismo.