2023 Aston Martin DBX707 review: A sports car in SUV clothing

As the auto industry continues to focus on SUVs, many sports car buyers have seen their options decline over the past few years. Well, the good news is that there are a few SUVs that try to be a sports car at heart, while still providing the versatility of an SUV. The 2023 Aston Martin DBX707 is easily one of the best options if you’re looking for truly premium sports car performance, but want the versatility and space that an SUV offers.

You may be wondering what the “707” part of the name means and what it adds compared to the standard DBX. The name 707 refers to the amount of metric horsepower the engine sends to all four wheels. Since the US doesn’t use the metric system, the actual horsepower rating here is 697 hp, which is 155 hp more than the DBX. It also has 147 lb-ft of torque at 663 lb-ft. These specifications mean that the DBX707 is more powerful than competitors, such as the Bentley Bentayga W12 Speed.

The DBX707 is powered by a modified version of Mercedes-AMG’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. The engine has been modified and massaged to produce more power than you’ll find under the hood of a Mercedes-AMG model. The 707 adds a new engine control unit, turbochargers, exhaust and induction systems. The driveshaft is also made of carbon fiber and the final drive ratio is 7 percent shorter. The V8 is also mated to a nine-speed AMG wet clutch transmission, which shifts gears quicker than the transmission in the standard DBX.

With 0-62 mph acceleration in 3.3 seconds, the DBX707 easily outpaces its competitors and even traditional sports cars. The engine turns the DBX707 into an absolute beast as it pushes you back into your seat when you step on the throttle. The all-wheel drive system sends power to the wheels – providing maximum stability when throwing the 707 hard into a corner.

To keep all that power under control, the 707 comes standard with carbon ceramic brakes. Buyers can also choose 22- or 23-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli tires. The special quad exhaust system features an active system with two sound settings, which can be activated via a button located on the center console. Press the start button located in the middle of the dashboard and you’ll be greeted with an excellent soundtrack. You can wake up the neighbors by pressing the start button and pulling one of the shift paddles at the same time to make the exhaust note louder.

DBX707 upgrades don’t end with what’s under the hood. Its chassis has also been improved with modifications to the power steering system to provide improved feedback. The 48-volt active roll bars have also been modified and the suspension has been modified to reduce body roll. The good news is that even with all these changes, the 707’s ride quality still provides a comfortable ride without the harsh ride you’d expect from a Sport model. Body roll is kept to a minimum and the DBX707 hides when it encounters twisties.

Externally, the DBX707 is distinguished from the standard DBX by its larger grille, new air inlets and brake cooling ducts. Details are finished in gloss black or carbon fibre. At the back there’s a larger spoiler, but the biggest updates are the rear section with a prominent diffuser and rear quarter vents. Quad exhausts add a finishing touch.

Inside the 707 gets new sports seats and a revised center console. The bad news is that the DBX doesn’t have a touchscreen, which means you have to use the knob/touchpad on the center console to operate it. The system was also borrowed from Mercedes, but it’s not the brand’s newest system. As you’d expect, it’s frustrating to use, especially since the infotainment screen is easily within reach, so you’ll find yourself touching the screen without it responding. The screen is also not split, so you can only see one system at a time, such as audio or navigation. But ultimately, it’s easy to ignore the infotainment system because the DBX707 is so much fun to drive.

Pricing for the 2023 Aston Martin DBX707 starts at $239,086, including destination charges. But with so many options, the price could easily approach $300,000.

We were already impressed with the standard DBX, but with the arrival of the DBX707, Aston Martin has created the perfect SUV for buyers who want the best of both worlds.