2022 Aston Martin DBX

2022 Aston Martin DBX is the first SUV model from a historic sports car brand. And just like the early days of the Cayenne, there are likely skeptics out there who believe Aston Martin is diluting its brand by building a family-friendly SUV. On its first try, Aston Martin has built one of the finest-driving SUVs we’ve ever sampled. In some respects, it even outmatches the Porsche Cayenne.

Aston Martin is far from the first exotic automaker to branch out into the SUV segment. The Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, Maserati Levante, and aforementioned Porsche Cayenne all loosely compete with the DBX, each offering a slightly different flavor of uber-luxury crossover.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2022 Aston Martin DBX is powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine supplied by Mercedes-AMG. The engine makes 542 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque and pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission, also supplied by Mercedes. While the 2022 Aston Martin DBX is fundamentally rear-wheel drive, a center transfer case sends torque to the front axle when slippage is detected at the rear.

It also has a limited-slip rear differential and can tow up to 5940 pounds. Adaptive dampers and height-adjustable air springs come standard on the Aston—a boon for off-road adventuring. The DBX tested rushed to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, which is respectable for a hot SUV, but the Lamborghini Urus and other rivals are notably quicker.

The 2022 Aston Martin DBX version we drove on England’s best roads showcased the engine’s lusty soundtrack and the transmission’s unobtrusive operation. Thanks to a diverse set of drive modes, its chassis demonstrated a broad range of demeanors, from refined and relaxed to responsive and playful. Despite its short 157-foot stop from 70 mph, the ute suffered from an unresponsive brake pedal.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Per the EPA’s methodology, the Aston Martin DBX will earn 14 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. We haven’t had a chance to evaluate its real-world fuel economy on our 75-mph highway route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen. For more information about DBX’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2022 Aston Martin DBX shares a lot of its switchgear with the rest of the Aston Martin family. The cabin is covered in attractively stitched leather, soft-touch surfaces, and a microsuede headliner. The ute comes standard with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, customizable ambient lighting, three-zone climate control, and heated front and rear seats.

Desirable options include ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a variety of even fancier cabin materials. Rear-seat space is ample, with plenty of knees- and headroom for adults. There’s a good amount of cargo volume, too, with 22 cubic feet of space behind the rear seat and 54 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.