THE NEW MODEL DIARY JUNE-DECEMBER 2016
ASTON MARTIN
Aston has been going nowhere as a small independent car maker, but its new alliance with Daimler gives it access to the engineering resources and funding required to produce a new generation of supercars.
Thefirst of these is the DB11, which features a lightweight bonded aluminium body, within which lurks a 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12. It produces 448kW of power and drives the DB11 to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds, en route to a top speed of 320km/h.
Adjustable drivetrain modes include GT, Sport and Sport Plus, which also adjusts the suspension dampers.
The 2+2 DB11 is bigger than previous DBs, with more rear occupant and load space. It also gets up-to-theminute infotainment systems and as much interior decor customisation as your wallet can stand. Like this: “Nexus quilting and Celestial perforation add layers of beautiful complexity and intrigue, while ornate leatherwork, such as intricate brogue detailing, creates areas of visual and tactile delight.” Wow.
The DB11 arrives at the end of the year. It costs around $400,000 in the UK; here, pricing is yet to be announced.
ALFA ROMEO
The Giulia, due here late this year or early in 2017, could well make or break Alfa’s attempted revival as a mainstream brand.
Designed to take on BMW’s 3 Series and the Mercedes C Class, the rear-and all-wheeldrive Giulia has already been delayed by engineering
