Aston Martin unveils 715PS DBR22

Though only a concept, this coachbuilt one-off prototype has already been tipped for a limited run of production cars for a select few lucky buyers. It follows in the footsteps of the Vantage V600, the one-off Victor and more.

The DBR22 features bespoke lighting and bodywork, with its curves and vents an overt nod to those of the Le Mans- and World Sportscar Championship-winning DBR1 of 1959. If we had to guess, though, we’d say the basis of the DBR22 is entirely familiar, with the diffuser and exhaust setup, along with the open roof, among a number of things it shares with the V12 Speedster. There are however said to be new front and rear shear panels which increase torsional rigidity and a new 3D-printed rear subframe, a first use of the production method for Aston Martin.

It also shares that car’s 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, albeit with a bump in power up to 715PS (526kW), while torque is 753Nm (555lb ft). The torque curve itself is claimed to have been tuned for a delivery unlike any previous installation of this V12. Performance figures are predictably impressive, with 0-62mph coming in around 3.5 seconds, on the way to a 198mph top speed.

What is very much updated is the interior. There’s an all-new dashboard with updated infotainment, something Aston’s series production cars have been sorely needing for a good while now. We expect a layout not dissimilar to this to debut on the updated DBS, DB11 and Vantage models when they debut in the next 18 months. The goal in this cabin design was a driver focus and a lack of clutter, taking influence from the marque’s racers.

The horizontal metallic vents apertures frame the new screen, while below them a familiar Vantage-esque button architecture appears to have been digitised. The steering wheel is familiar Aston Martin, though there is a new digital instrument cluster. The mix of carbon and brown leather is symbolic of the ‘old meets new’ vibe of this car.