2023 Aston Martin DBX Hybrid spy shots and video: the first mild hybrid

A new Aston Martin DBX was spotted testing at the Nürburgring.

At first glance, the car appears to be stock, but a yellow sticker on the rear windshield indicates that it is an electrified model. This sticker is mandatory during testing at the Nürburgring, and in the event of an accident, it alerts first responders that the vehicle is electrified.

Production of the DBX has just begun in 2020, but the mid-size crossover already accounts for 50% of Aston Martin's sales. Naturally, Aston Martin is preparing new variants to meet this demand.

Motor Trend magazine reported in August, citing comments from CEO Tobias Moers, that up to six variations are possible, including a new body style. According to the magazine, the next variant being tested will be a mild hybrid. It is expected to be unveiled later this year.

A high-performance model with a V12 engine is also being prepared. This is also being tested and is expected to be introduced in 2023. A plug-in hybrid is also known to be coming in 2023. We know that the DBX being tested here is not a plug-in hybrid because it does not have charging ports.

The DBX's mild hybrid is expected to use a setup similar to that used by Mercedes-Benz AMG in its current 53 Series. This setup consists of a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder turbocharger and an electric starter motor that is enhanced to assist the engine under heavy loads and to recover energy during braking. It also features an electric compressor that assists the turbo by increasing boost at low rpm. Maximum output is 429 hp and maximum torque is 384 lb-ft.

According to the photographer, the sound of this DBX was different from the regular V-8 model; the DBX with the V-8 engine also uses an AMG engine, which produces 542 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. ft. This V-8 engine was the same as that used in the DBX, but it was a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine that delivered 542 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. We are told that this V-8 engine will also be used in future DBX plug-in hybrids, like the Valhalla plug-in hybrid hypercar.

The DBX Mild Hybrid is expected to go on sale in 2022 as a 2023 model. Aston Martin has already announced the 2022 DBX with new color and trim options and new wheel designs. The options list also includes sports seats and a wireless charging pad for mobile devices.