Aston’s sizzler SUV gains more grunt … just because.

ANOTHER luxury sports utility from a well-known performance brand has been given a dose of steroids.

Aston Martin has revealed a new high-performance version of its DBX.

The new DBX707 is so-named as such to signify its uprated 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 under the bonnet, which now produces up to 527kW and 900Nm of torque; enough oomph to make it the most powerful luxury SUV on sale, the marque insists.

The Mercedes-AMG-sourced twin-turbo V8 features new turbochargers and a unique engine map to deliver the extra power. The standard torque converter auto has been bumped for a faster-responding nine-speed transmission from the Mercedes-AMG E 63 S. Aston Martin claims the DBX707 will hit 0-100kmh in 3.3 seconds. The regular edition does it in 4.3s.

The edition has bespoke Dynamic Drive modes, notably a Race Start option in the GT Sport and Sport plus drive settings, which optimises the car for full-throttle launches.

A stronger electronic limited-slip rear differential has been added to cope with the extra torque.

Four-wheel drive remains standard, and the system is fully automatic, so it can send power to the wheels with the most grip, while there's the ability to send up to 100 per cent of torque to the rear wheels on demand.

The air suspension has also been optimised, with new damping and a recalibrated active roll control system, while the steering has also been revised.

Carbon ceramic brakes with six-piston callipers are standard; this not only improves stopping but also cuts unsprung weight by 40.5kg.

As well the engineering upgrades, the types achieves specific styling cues of an enlarged grille, a new daytime running light design and extra air intakes to feed air to the engine, gearbox and brakes. Dark satin chrome is used on the nose, the bonnet vents and window surrounds.

The type rides on 22-inch wheels, but 23-inch rims are optional. The tailgate spoiler is designed to reduce lift at high speeds. A new rear bumper with an enlarged diffuser is required to fit the revised quad-exit exhaust.

Interior alterations run to sports seats finished in Alcantara, dark chrome everywhere and some additional buttons to operate the performance modes.

“When you are the alpha SUV you don't have to try too hard, therefore, we concentrated on those areas of the design that would make the DBX707 instantly recognisable as the highest performing model,” says Aston Martin chief creative officer, Marek Reichman.

“Naturally, function is the driver for some of the changes - most notably the larger grille aperture, rear spoiler and optional 23-inch wheels - but elsewhere - such as the side sills and rear bumper - we expressed the DBX707's immense performance in ways that create a more aggressive stance and greater muscularity.

“DBX707 is a true performance beast, yet retains the beauty and elegance you expect from Aston Martin's DNA.”

There is no word from the New Zealand distributor in respect to potential availability here.