Unveiled by Aston Martin, the DBR22 is a high-performance sports car with a nostalgic touch, reminiscent of the brand’s classic convertible racing vehicles. Crafted to mirror the iconic designs of the DBR1 and DB3S, this unique model also celebrates the 10th anniversary of Aston’s specialized Q division, which empowers buyers to personalize their vehicles with custom colors, trims, and interior elements. Although currently presented as a design concept, the DBR22 will eventually be produced as a limited-edition vehicle catered to the affluent clientele of the company.
While it’s common to feel indifferent towards ultra-luxurious, impractical toys for billionaires, I find the DBR22 stunning and deserving of admiration. Its retro design seamlessly harmonizes with contemporary features such as a newly designed carbon fiber body and an innovative aluminum rear subframe, manufactured using 3D printing technology—a first for Aston Martin. The carbon fiber grille pays homage to the aesthetics of the DBR1, and the 21-inch centerlock wheels suggest a near-final production model.
Powering the DBR22 is a 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 engine generating 705 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox featuring “torque shaping” technology to deliver a unique driving experience. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph takes just 3.4 seconds, and the top speed reaches 198 mph.
Distinctive shear panels at the front and rear enhance torsional rigidity, while specially tuned adaptive damper settings further enhance the driving dynamics of the DBR22.
Although the British Racing Green color may seem conventional (at least for Aston Martin), the DBR22 concept vehicle showcased here boasts a completely customized color crafted through Aston’s Q division’s paint-to-sample process. As a fully bespoke creation of Q, each customer’s vehicle can be personalized to their exact preferences, from paint and decals to carbon fiber finishes and custom interior materials. Standard features include an all-new dashboard accented with luxurious leather and carbon accents.
The production of the DBR22 mirrors the approach taken in crafting the unique Aston Martin Victor and the extremely limited Vulcan models, suggesting that it will be equally rare, possibly in the low double-digit range. The DBR22 concept will be showcased at the Pebble Beach Concours D’ Elegance from August 19 to 21.
Do you have any tips or inquiries for the author regarding the DBR22? Feel free to contact him at chris.tsui@thedrive.com
