The Aston Martin DBX offers undeniable allure – its looks are striking, the interior feels sumptuous, performance is thrillingly quick, and it genuinely handles well. This British brand newcomer has been a significant success for Aston Martin, attracting new customers eager to experience something distinctive from such a storied name. However, despite these undeniable strengths, the DBX harbors a troubling secret: its reputation among owners is mixed at best. While some adore their DBXs, others report persistent niggles and frustration with dealer service, leading to genuine buyer’s remorse. So before diving into Aston Martin’s SUV world, thoroughly consider every aspect of this vehicle – especially your local dealership.
A Market Trend: Luxury SUVs Reign Supreme
The luxury car market has undergone a seismic shift in recent years. Once synonymous with sleek sports cars and grand tourers (GTs), manufacturers like Porsche, Lamborghini, and Aston Martin have embraced the SUV as a central pillar of their brands. Porsche blazed the trail with the Cayenne, which became its best-selling model, later eclipsed by the even smaller Macan SUV. This trend has since swept across the luxury landscape, driving significant sales growth for every brand that joined in. Aston Martin arrived relatively late to the party but quickly realized the immense potential of this booming segment with their DBX.
A Look Back: The DBX’s Entry and Evolution
Aston Martin debuted the DBX in November 2019, priced at £150,000 and promising deliveries for spring 2020. Timing wasn’t ideal as the global COVID-19 pandemic struck shortly after. Every initial DBX model was equipped with a powerful Mercedes-sourced twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine generating 542 horsepower. A more potent variant, the 697bhp DBX707, arrived in spring 2022. By April 2024, the latter became the sole powertrain offered in the DBX lineup. That same month, Aston Martin introduced a significant facelift for the model year, updating the infotainment system and refining the cabin design. The excitement continued in April 2025 with the launch of the even more potent DBX S boasting 717 horsepower alongside unique carbon-fiber elements and interior trims setting it apart from the DBX707.
The Used Market: A Balancing Act of Price and Performance
The used market for Aston Martin DBXs presents a fascinating paradox. While many examples remain well below the 10,000-mile mark, even some with less than 5,000 miles, securing these pristine models comes at a premium. The reality is that the DBX is not a bargain on the second-hand market.
However, discerning buyers can still find excellent deals. Using platforms like our Buy a Car service allows you to acquire a well-loved Aston Martin DBX for just over £130,000 – offering exceptional value in the grand scheme of things.
Behind the Wheel: Performance and Handling That Surprises
Despite tipping the scales at at least 2.2 tonnes, the DBX defies expectations by feeling remarkably light and agile on the road. Its performance is undeniably blistering; even the base model catapults from 0 to 62 mph in a breathtaking 4.5 seconds, reaching an impressive top speed of 181 mph.
However, it’s far more than just straight-line speed. Air suspension, adaptive dampers, and an anti-roll control system coalesce to create remarkably composed handling that belies its size. Remarkably comfortable even when equipped with massive 23-inch wheels, the DBX allows for a personalized driving experience thanks to six distinct driving modes. These modes offer fine-grained control over suspension settings, steering weight, gearbox mapping, and throttle response, allowing drivers to tailor the car precisely to their preferences within each chosen mode.
Choosing Your DBX: Key Factors and Considerations
Every DBX boasts exhilarating performance and luxurious appointments. The most significant decision for prospective buyers centers around finding the right balance between price and features. Pre-facelift models (pre-April 2024) lack the advanced infotainment system implemented in later iterations, opting for a dated setup. Consequently, upgrading to a newer model is strongly recommended due to the noticeable leap forward in technology.
Beyond infotainment, Aston Martin addressed several minor usability and quality issues post-launch. These refinements primarily involve interior fitments and running gear, further solidifying the case for a slightly newer DBX. All models come generously equipped with features like leather upholstery, an Alcantara headlining, panoramic glass roof, power-adjustable front seats, heated seating throughout, auto-dimming and folding door mirrors, tri-zone climate control, a powered tailgate, and 360-degree cameras.
Optional extras range from the practical (heated steering wheel, ventilated seats, luggage set) to the eccentric (Pet Pack, picnic hamper, child seats). Buyers seeking exclusivity can further personalize their DBXs through unique grille designs and interior trim options available on the top-of-the-line DBX S model.
What Makes the DBX Stand Out from the Competition?
The Aston Martin DBX finds itself nestled among a cohort of formidable competitors in the high-performance SUV segment. The Porsche Cayenne Coupé boasts up to 670 horsepower and engaging handling, while the Bentley Bentayga reigns supreme with an exquisitely luxurious interior. The Range Rover SV Autobiography presents a compelling alternative, combining off-road prowess with opulent appointments.
Then there are the outright speed demons: Lamborghini Urus, Ferrari Purosangue (both reaching stratospheric price points on the used market), and others like the BMW X6 M, Mercedes-AMG GLE 63, Audi RS Q8. These offer monstrous performance rivaling that of the DBX but lack the unique sense of occasion that makes Aston Martin so compelling.
Potential Pitfalls: What to Watch Out For When Buying Used
While meticulously hand-built and distinctive, pinpointing widespread fault patterns in such a relatively low-volume production model is tricky. However, online owner forums shed light on recurring issues owners have encountered, such as headlight condensation, airbag glitches (affecting early models), faulty fuseboxes, and sub-standard oil cooler hoses potentially leading to catastrophic engine failure if left unchecked.
The Inside Story: Opulence Meets Practical Concerns
The DBX’s cabin is undeniably opulent. Its driver and front passenger can adjust their seating positions with an impressive array of adjustments for ideal comfort. High-quality materials abound, making the space feel truly special. However, the practicality factor takes a slight hit due to limited oddments storage and a somewhat complex center console layout requiring some acclimation. Passengers in the rear will find ample space for four adults, while the generously sized 638-liter boot provides plenty of cargo capacity.
Running Costs: A Sobering Reality Check
While undeniably glamorous, owning a DBX comes with a hefty financial responsibility beyond the initial purchase price. Official fuel economy figures hover around just under 20 mpg on the combined cycle, though expect real-world results to dip significantly in urban driving conditions. Insurance premiums are steep due to its powerful nature, placing it squarely within insurance group 50, subjecting it to an expensive car tax supplement until year six (£620 annually). Depreciation rates remain notably high; a 2022 model with 50,000 miles might fetch around £85,000 when new models were priced closer to £200,000. Servicing intervals are set at every 12 months or 10,000 miles, with the first three free. Subsequent services escalate in price; expect to shell out around £2,160 for the fourth service (£2,375 for the DBX707), followed by a slightly reduced fifth and sixth service before stabilizing at roughly £660 for the seventh (DBX) or £560 (DBX707).
Reliability Record: Mixed Signals Amidst Limited Data
Aston Martin has only a tiny market share in the UK (0.05%), resulting in no DBXs featuring in reputable reliability surveys like Driver Power or its brand-specific studies. However, anecdotal feedback from online forums paints a mixed picture. Enthusiasts praise the DBX for its exhilarating driving dynamics, exquisite build quality, and potent performance, but consistent dealer service issues seem to be a recurring frustration.
In Conclusion: The Aston Martin DBX presents an enticing proposition – a thrilling blend of luxury, performance, and exclusivity. However, potential buyers should proceed with caution, meticulously researching specific examples and, crucially, establishing the reputation and competence of their chosen dealership before making such a significant investment.
