Aston Martin’s first SUV is ‘bold new era’ for manufacturer

Aston Martin's DBX being tested on a Welsh Rally stage

Aston Martin has completed the first “real world” test of its first SUV model ahead of its launch in a year’s time.

The car, which will officially be known as DBX, was driven along a Welsh Rally stage. It will be the first vehicle built at its new St Athan factory in south Wales.

Dr Andy Palmer, chief executive of Aston Martin

Andy Palmer, chief executive of Aston Martin Lagonda, said the model “is very much the start of a bold new era in the company’s long history”.

He said: “Seeing a DBX development prototype in action is a momentous chapter in the story of our first SUV, for it is the moment it really comes alive.

“DBX is so much more than ‘just’ an SUV – it will be the first model built at our brand-new facility in St Athan.”

The DBX follows quickly on from their IPO. Aston Martin floated last month but immediately hit bumpy terrain, losing more than 25% of their value in the first three weeks.

Aston Martin’s DBX being tested on a Welsh Rally stage

Its shares have since recovered around half of that drop, and last night’s close of 1600p valued the manufacturer at £3.65bn.

The manufacturer has been accelerating the frequency of new product launches in the last five years and the DBX is seen as being an important addition to its range.

Aston Martin’s chief engineer, Matt Becker, who was behind the wheel for the test, said: “DBX is a very different kind of Aston Martin, but we will be testing it in all conditions and across all terrains to ensure it delivers a driving experience worthy of the wings badge.”

Close