Aston Martin DB11 Hire UK: V8 and V12 Grand Touring Coupe Self-Drive

The Aston Martin DB11 was the first entirely new Aston Martin in a decade when it launched in 2016, replacing the DB9 and marking the first use of the new VH bonded aluminium platform that underpins all current Aston Martin grand tourers. It is available in two engine configurations. The V8 uses a 4.0-litre twin-turbo engine derived from the Mercedes-AMG GT, producing 503HP and 675Nm of torque, reaching 62mph in 4.0 seconds and 187mph. The V12 uses Aston’s own 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 producing 600HP and 700Nm, reaching 62mph in 3.7 seconds and 200mph. Both engines drive the rear wheels through an eight speed automatic gearbox. The DB11 is a front-mid-engine rear wheel drive car, the engine sits entirely behind the front axle line, which improves weight distribution compared to a conventional front-engine layout and gives the car a more neutral handling balance. The kerb weight of 1,770kg is reasonable for a grand tourer of this size and specification and is significantly lighter than the DB12 that replaced it.

Aeroblade active aerodynamics

The DB11 introduced Aeroblade as a standard feature on the coupe. Rather than using a visible rear spoiler to generate downforce, the system draws air through intake vents in the C pillar of the car, channels it through the body and releases it from a slot across the full width of the bootlid. This creates a curtain of air that acts as a virtual spoiler, generating downforce without adding visual bulk to the rear of the car. At low speeds the system is inactive and the bootlid remains flush. At higher speeds the air management system opens and the downforce is generated automatically. The DB11 is the only car in the Starr Aston Martin fleet to use this specific aerodynamic system.

DB11 vs DB12 – what changed

The DB12 replaced the DB11 in 2023 and is the current flagship grand tourer. The DB12 is wider by 6mm at the front and 22mm at the rear, uses a more powerful version of the same V8 producing 671HP rather than 503HP, has a new electronic rear differential that the DB11 did not have, a new in house infotainment system replacing the Mercedes sourced system in the DB11, and five drive modes compared to three in the DB11. The DB12 is the more capable and better equipped car. The DB11 remains a genuinely rewarding and distinctive grand tourer that is now available at a lower hire rate than the DB12, and the Aeroblade system that the DB11 introduced has no equivalent in the DB12.

The DB11 on UK roads

The DB11 is built for exactly the roads that the UK offers. On motorways in GT mode the adaptive dampers soften, the throttle response mellows and the exhaust quietens to a level that makes long distances feel composed. The V8 in this mode is undemanding but present, you are never unaware of the engine behind the firewall. On open A roads in Sport mode the throttle sharpens, the exhaust opens and the rear wheel drive character becomes more engaged without becoming difficult to manage. The front mid engine layout keeps the weight balanced and the car responds predictably to steering input. In UK wet conditions the traction and stability systems provide a safety net without being intrusive. The DB11 is a more physical driving experience than the Bentley Continental GT and a more relaxed one than the Vantage, sitting clearly in the grand touring space where pace and refinement are both present but neither dominates.

Get a Quote for the Aston Martin DB11 →

Aston Martin DB11 self-drive hire requirements

To hire the Aston Martin DB11 with Starr Luxury Cars you will need a full UK or EU driving licence held for a minimum of 3 years, no more than 6 penalty points, and be at least 25 years of age. A refundable security deposit is required at the time of booking. Standard packages include 100 miles per day. Additional mileage can be pre purchased at the time of booking.