2024 Aston Martin DB12 Volante First Drive Review: Possibly the Best Aston, Roofless

During the technical briefing for the 2024 Aston Martin DB12 Volante, a company representative noted that performance has become a bigger focus for the automaker than before. And as a result, it's now targeting the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini rather than Bentley. That’s certainly a commendable ambition for a brand that owes as much of its reputation to motorsport as it does to James Bond, but I must admit that skepticism was my initial, knee-jerk reaction. 

Performance has always been an intrinsic element of Aston Martin vehicles. But aside from a few notable exceptions like the how-is-this-street-legal Valkyrie, the company’s road cars have traditionally leaned more toward grand touring rather than outright capability. 

For example, the last DB11 I drove—also a V8-powered Volante—had the curb appeal and the ultra-posh presentation that you’d expect from Aston Martin, but when it came time to chase down a Porsche 911 in the canyons, the car ultimately felt out of its element. A more recent stint in a DBX707 produced similar results. While the boosted 4.0-liter delivered legitimately stunning straight-line thrust, its relatively soft chassis tuning simply could not replicate the uncanny composure of a Lamborghini Urus Performante when it came time to attack some corners. And that was fine because the last word in athleticism just wasn't what you expected from an Aston Martin anyway. But this latest declaration changes the rules of engagement. If the company intends to go toe-to-toe with the best in the performance business, it had better come correct. 

After spending a few hours in the Malibu Hills with the DB12 Volante, I’m happy to report that this ragtop not only delivers on several crucial fronts in that regard, but it may just be the most wholly realized sports car in Aston Martin’s history.

Although convertibles are typically seen as the softer, more lifestyle-focused counterpoint to their coupe brethren—and often a bit of a design afterthought—the DB12 Volante manages to avoid these potential pitfalls. Like its DB11 predecessor, the DB12 Volante boasts an uninterrupted beltline with the roof stowed under its tonneau cover, creating a visual effect