The Pinnacle of Performance: Aston Martin DBX S vs. Ferrari Purosangue – A Deep Dive into the Ultimate Super SUV
The landscape of automotive excellence has undergone a seismic shift. Gone are the days when the very definition of a supercar was inextricably linked to a low-slung, wedge-shaped silhouette. Today, the pinnacle of automotive performance is increasingly finding its expression in the form of the Super SUV. This evolution presents discerning enthusiasts with a tantalizing dilemma: which of these titans truly reigns supreme? This year, as we navigate the complexities of advanced automotive engineering and evolving consumer desires, the Aston Martin DBX S and the Ferrari Purosangue stand as formidable contenders, each embodying a distinct philosophy of what a super SUV should be.
Having spent a decade immersed in the nuances of high-performance vehicles, the initial encounter with these two machines offers a potent distillation of their respective brands’ identities, amplified and recontextualized within the SUV form factor. The very notion of a luxury SUV with supercar performance was once a fringe concept, but now it’s a fiercely contested segment. As a seasoned industry observer, I can attest that the Aston Martin DBX S and the Ferrari Purosangue are not merely vehicles; they are statements, technological marvels, and, in their own unique ways, answers to the question of how to blend blistering speed with everyday usability and undeniable prestige.
Our recent immersion into the rugged beauty of the Lake District, amidst the dramatic inclines of the Hardknott Pass, provided an unforgiving yet revealing crucible for these exceptional machines. The inky blackness of an unlit evening, coupled with a rather inconvenient puncture on the Ferrari Purosangue, served as a stark reminder that even the most technologically advanced vehicles are not immune to the vagaries of fate and the unforgiving nature of certain terrains. With no spare tire readily available, and a small sidewall laceration rendering the 23-inch rear wheel useless for immediate repairs, a stark reality set in: the journey back to civilization would be a patient, if slightly anxious, wait.
This unexpected interlude, however, provided ample time for reflection on the journey thus far and the profound capabilities—and limitations—of these elite performance SUVs. The genesis of this encounter was rooted in a desire to definitively assess two of the most compelling high-performance luxury SUVs currently gracing the automotive landscape. Ferrari’s Purosangue, a vehicle born from considerable internal debate and strategic consideration, represents a bold departure. It boasts a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine – a powerplant synonymous with the brand’s rich supercar heritage – and positions itself as a four-seater of elevated stature, drawing far more from its sports car lineage than from any traditional, mud-plugging SUV DNA. It is, in essence, Ferrari’s unapologetic interpretation of a performance all-wheel-drive SUV.
On the opposing side of this captivating comparison stands the Aston Martin DBX S. Representing the zenith of Aston Martin’s efforts in the performance utility vehicle segment, the DBX S builds upon the formidable foundation of its predecessors. The baseline DBX, once a powerful 550bhp offering, has been superseded by the 707 model as the standard, with the ‘S’ designation denoting a further refinement. This includes sharper steering, a more resolute suspension tune, a marginal increase in power, and the striking quad-stacked exhaust arrangement, all offered without a price premium over the already potent 707. It’s less an upgrade and more a declaration of intent – a clear signal that Aston Martin is committed to pushing the boundaries of its ultra-luxury SUV offerings.
On paper, the performance metrics of both vehicles are undeniably impressive, suggesting a remarkably close contest for the title of best super SUV. Both models achieve a blistering 0-62 mph sprint in a mere 3.3 seconds and share a top speed of 193 mph. Both employ all-wheel-drive systems, albeit with vastly different operational philosophies. Weighing in similarly, the DBX in its standard configuration is marginally heavier than the Ferrari, but with the addition of lightweight options like 23-inch magnesium wheels and a carbon fiber roof, the Aston Martin can actually tip the scales at 2kg less than the Purosangue. These figures, while compelling, serve as a mere preamble to the nuanced reality of how these machines translate raw power and engineering prowess into the driving experience. The true narrative of these premium performance SUVs unfolds not on a spec sheet, but on the asphalt, gravel, and indeed, the challenging ascents of Britain’s most demanding roads.
To truly unearth their character and capabilities, a comprehensive road trip was undertaken, traversing hundreds of miles of varied terrain – from sweeping A-roads and sinuous B-roads to motorways and the unforgiving confines of urban car parks. We subjected them to the rigors of carrying ample luggage and passengers, scrutinizing their practical usability, daily comfort, the sophistication of their infotainment systems, and, inevitably, their rather enthusiastic fuel consumption.
While avoiding a deep dive into exhaustive consumer reporting, the Aston Martin DBX S emerges as the demonstrably more practical proposition. It accommodates five occupants, a distinct advantage over the Ferrari’s four-seat configuration. Its boot offers a commendable 632 liters of space, nearly a third larger than the Purosangue’s 473 liters, and provides a more accommodating aperture when the rear seats are folded flat. The Aston Martin also exhibits superior fuel economy, achieving closer to 23 mpg on the motorway compared to the Ferrari’s approximately 18 mpg. It’s crucial to note, however, that under spirited driving conditions, both vehicles’ fuel gauges would plummet at an alarming rate, transforming premium unleaded into a symphony of noise and kinetic energy with the slightest provocation. This consumption characteristic is a hallmark of the powerful V12 SUV and the high-performance V8 SUV.
For everyday driving, the Aston Martin offers a more pliant and comfortable experience. Its GT mode delivers a supple, armchair-like ride. While the Ferrari’s damping is nothing short of superlative – a topic we will revisit – its fundamental character leans towards a more athletic and immediate response to every input. If the Aston Martin DBX S is a powerful and dependable Rottweiler, the Ferrari Purosangue is its agile, energetic Border Collie counterpart – each possessing immense capability, but expressed through distinct personalities. This contrast is central to understanding the appeal of these exotic SUVs.
The ultimate objective, however, was to push these vehicles beyond their comfort zones, to discover how they perform when confronted with scenarios far removed from their typical urban environments. The Hardknott Pass, near Ambleside, in England’s Lake District, presented precisely such a challenge. This public road, renowned for its precipitous gradients, notoriously narrow width, and a topography that would test the resolve of any driver, became the ultimate arbiter of their mettle. With warning signs, deep potholes, and hair-raising hairpin bends that induce pressure changes in the ears, the pass is a gauntlet for any vehicle, let alone these colossal machines. If they could conquer this, they could undoubtedly handle any public road with aplomb. This unforgiving stretch is a true test for any all-weather performance SUV.
Remarkably, the Ferrari Purosangue proves to be astoundingly adept at managing compromised surfaces. Its damping system, featuring Multimatic’s spool valve technology, operates like miniature, electrically actuated clockwork gearboxes within the dampers. This precision allows for an extraordinary variation in stiffness, effectively rendering traditional anti-roll bars redundant. The spool valves provide a vast spectrum of tuning, from plush comfort to track-day aggression, ensuring tires remain firmly planted, even on uneven terrain. Within the Purosangue, drivers can meticulously tailor these systems to suit the prevailing conditions. A rotation of the Manettino dial to a setting just shy of ‘all-off,’ followed by a forward nudge to re-engage soft damping, allows for the raw throttle response and sharp steering inputs to remain intact while the suspension gracefully absorbs cambers and bumps, rather than jarring against them. This sophisticated approach underscores its status as a cutting-edge luxury SUV.
It is in these moments that the Purosangue’s dynamic and engaging responses truly come into their own. It defies conventional SUV archetypes. Its drivetrain exhibits a pronounced rear-wheel-drive bias, with the front axle stepping in only when maximum traction is required. The steering, considering the car’s considerable dimensions, is nothing short of immaculate, enabling it to carve through even the tightest bends with a nimbleness that belies its stature. The eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox shifts with the alacrity one would expect from a pure Ferrari sports car, further cementing its performance credentials. This agility makes it a compelling option for those seeking a sports car alternative SUV.
And then there is the auditory experience. The sonorous bellow of the 6.5-liter V12 engine, nestled within an elevated chassis, is a supercar symphony. While not designed for off-roading, its capability on rutted British B-roads surpasses that of many traditional sports cars. It delivers a torque curve that defies expectation, with 528 lb-ft available, ensuring effortless acceleration. The V12’s intoxicating wail, echoing off the surrounding hillsides, creates an immersive and exhilarating sensation. However, the Ferrari’s intensity, while immensely joyful and engaging, can be fatiguing during prolonged, spirited driving. It truly comes alive on smoother, faster roads, where it can genuinely challenge conventional low-slung sports cars, its engine screaming towards its 8,250 rpm redline. This V12 powered SUV is a unique proposition.
The Hardknott and adjoining Wrynose Passes are anything but smooth. They are remnants of forgotten routes, more akin to challenging tracks than public thoroughfares. Space is at a premium, with formidable, jagged rocks embedded into the verges mere inches from the vehicle’s extremities. Maintaining unwavering focus is paramount; there is no room for distraction, regardless of the breathtaking scenery. These are not roads for enjoyment, but rather an intense test of nerve and skill. Such environments are precisely where one might expect a large, imposing high-performance SUV like the Aston Martin to falter. And yet, this is where the DBX S reveals its surprising aptitude. It’s not merely a different flavor from the standard DBX 707; it’s a more potent, more focused rendition.
By judiciously engaging certain suspension settings, the DBX S sheds its comfortable, commuting demeanor. The steering, a mere four percent quicker than the standard car’s, feels significantly more reactive when combined with the more aggressive air spring settings and electronic ride control. This transforms the large SUV into a more agile and confident handler than its dimensions would suggest. While it lacks the immediate, dart-like reflexes of the Ferrari, the Aston Martin exhibits a fluid confidence that allows the driver to explore the limits of grip. It feels stable and predictable, its reactions reassuringly linear. The precision of its steering is essential, as, much like the Purosangue, judging the car’s extremities can be challenging. However, the DBX S allows for remarkably precise placement, and its all-wheel-drive system adeptly manages changes in surface grip mid-corner. Propelling this considerable mass is the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering a guttural surge of power that perfectly complements the car’s imposing presence. The nine-speed automatic transmission executes shifts with unrestrained vigor.
The S model benefits from turbochargers derived from the Valhalla supercar, enhancing top-end performance. However, it is the lower-end torque, more readily available than in the Purosangue, that truly distinguishes it. Like the Ferrari, it thrives on open roads where its prodigious speed can be unleashed. Yet, the DBX S impressively defies its size. The only minor quibble? The throttle response can feel a touch delayed when not on boost, a subtlety that is amplified on tight, demanding roads. This characteristic is certainly noticeable.
It was initially presumed that neither of these expensive luxury SUVs would truly excel in such a demanding environment. Their size, power, and the claustrophobic nature of the terrain seemed an insurmountable hurdle. However, both proved to be exceptional. They are not mere compromises, the SUV cousins of sports cars, but rather fully realized, distinct entities. While their specifications might occupy similar cells on a spreadsheet, their characters inhabit entirely different dimensions. This highlights the diverse approaches to creating ultimate driving machine SUVs.
This brings us to the inevitable, and often contentious, question of which is truly superior. A points-based draw would be a disservice to the distinct brilliance each vehicle offers. Our objective was to identify the best super SUV – a practical, usable SUV that also delivers uncompromising performance and prestige. Both contenders undoubtedly possess an abundance of both performance and prestige, albeit delivered through contrasting philosophies. On a mixed circuit of roads, I am convinced neither would be left wanting.
The interiors of both vehicles are equally exquisite. The Ferrari, however, persists with a somewhat bewildering array of haptic controls, while the Aston Martin occasionally stumbles with its CarPlay integration. Yet, the DBX S’s inherent practicality – a fundamental trait one seeks in an SUV – remains a significant advantage. And then there is the matter of price. The Aston Martin DBX S starts at approximately £210,000, with the specific vehicle we tested reaching £255,390 once options were factored in. The Ferrari Purosangue, on the other hand, begins its journey at £313,120, with the pictured example commanding an eye-watering £487,548 – a testament to nearly £175,000 in optional extras. While press cars are typically adorned with numerous features, the sheer scope for personalization and the associated cost suggest a deliberate pricing strategy from Ferrari, aiming to extract maximum value. While not the sole deciding factor, it is a critical consideration for potential buyers of supercars with SUV practicality.
Ultimately, a verdict must be rendered. The Ferrari Purosangue occupies a unique space in the automotive spectrum. Ferrari’s persistent rhetoric about it not being an SUV is, in its own way, accurate. Its V12 engine is pure supercar provenance, its roofline is decidedly low, and its practicality, while present, is inherently limited. It possesses a narrower operating window than the Aston Martin. While it shines brilliantly within that window, it remains a distinct entity, a marque unto itself.
The Aston Martin DBX S, conversely, approaches the archetype. With judicious refinements, the ‘S’ model imbues the vehicle with an edge that the blunt-instrument potency of the 707, while impressive, lacked. It is ferocious, sonorous, and undeniably brutish. Yet, it also possesses a remarkable level of precision, is astonishingly fast, and perfectly practical. And it achieves this for a significantly lower price point. For these compelling reasons, the Aston Martin DBX S emerges as the victor in this particular contest. It is not necessarily a better car than the Ferrari Purosangue in every conceivable metric, but it is unequivocally the better super SUV.
For those seeking to experience the pinnacle of performance blended with everyday usability, the Aston Martin DBX S offers a compelling proposition. Contact your nearest Aston Martin dealer today to arrange a test drive and discover the extraordinary capabilities of this segment-defining machine.
