Aston Martin’s latest offering, the 2026 DBX S SUV, pushes the boundaries of luxury performance… and cost. Tested in brutal winter conditions – a blizzard on the East Coast, to be exact – this $291,200 vehicle with an optional $131,000 in extras proves that some buyers will pay anything for exclusivity and speed.
The Absurdity of Options
The DBX S builds on the DBX 707, adding a modest 20 horsepower (for a total of 717) and shaving 103 pounds through optional carbon fiber components. The real story isn’t power, but price: a staggering $21,600 for 23-inch magnesium wheels, $20,200 for carbon-fiber lower exterior packs, and $13,600 just for a special white paint job.
These choices aren’t merely cosmetic. The carbon roof lowers the center of gravity by almost 40 pounds, and magnesium wheels reduce unsprung weight by 10 pounds per corner. Aston Martin doesn’t just sell a car; it sells an experience… at a premium.
Handling and Performance
Despite its 4,800-pound weight, the DBX S feels surprisingly agile. The balanced chassis, adaptive air suspension, and electronic active roll control (eARC) minimize body roll, making it almost impervious to inertia.
The 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged AMG engine delivers a surge of power above 3,000 rpm, and the nine-speed automatic transmission responds quickly when pushed. The car isn’t just fast; it’s refined. The interior features high-quality leather, supportive seats, and a supple ride, making long journeys comfortable.
The Devil in the Details
The DBX S isn’t without flaws. The infotainment system, despite supporting Apple CarPlay Ultra, can be glitchy.
The piano-black trim smudges easily, a jarring contrast to the otherwise luxurious materials. The pop-out door handles are unreliable in extreme temperatures, and the lack of a sunroof on carbon-roof models feels like a strange cost-cutting measure.
Verdict: Status Symbol Over Sensible Purchase
The Aston Martin DBX S is an exceptional driver’s car. But its absurd price tag raises a simple question: is the extra performance worth the cost? For many buyers, the answer will be no. While the DBX S offers a thrilling experience, it’s more about making a statement than maximizing practicality.
Competitors like the Bentley Bentayga, Ferrari Purosangue, and Lamborghini Urus offer similar levels of luxury and performance, but Aston Martin’s DBX S stands out with its uncompromising approach to exclusivity.
