The Aston Martin AE18 is a 4,500 cc, twin — turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2025 and 2030. Developed entirely in — house by Aston Martin, it features a 90° V8 configuration, DOHC 32 — valve heads, and hot — V turbocharging layout. In standard tune, it produces 485 kW (660 PS) and 800 Nm of torque, with peak output rising to 522 kW (710 PS) in the high — performance DB13 variant. The engine integrates a 48V mild — hybrid system with integrated starter — generator (ISG) f…
All AE18-powered vehicles comply with Euro 7 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
The Aston Martin AE18 is a 4,500 cc twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance grand touring and luxury applications (2025–2030). It features a 90° aluminum block, DOHC 32-valve heads, and hot-V turbocharging to deliver rapid torque delivery and responsive power. Developed entirely in-house, it meets Euro 7 standards while supporting 48V mild-hybrid integration and advanced thermal management.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,500 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 92.5 mm | |
Power output | 485–522 kW (660–710 PS) | |
Torque | 800–850 Nm @ 2,500–5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Dual injection (direct + port), Bosch MD17.9.2 ECU | |
Emissions standard | Euro 7 | |
Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled, triple-circuit with integrated charge cooler | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll, hot-V layout (Honeywell) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (dual overhead camshafts) | |
Oil type | Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 (Aston Martin Specification WSS-M2C952-A1) | |
Dry weight | 215 kg |
The Aston Martin AE18 was used across Aston Martin's MLA platform with longitudinal mounting and developed entirely in-house for hybrid performance. This engine received model-specific calibrations-intake tuning in the Vantage and revised exhaust manifolds in the DB13-and from 2027 the Lagonda adopted the AE18-Hybrid variant with enhanced ISG output and revised thermal management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The AE18's primary reliability risk is electric water pump failure on pre-2025 units, with elevated incidence during sustained high-load operation. Internal Aston Martin service reports from 2025 indicated intermittent overheating in early DB13 prototypes, while UK DVSA records show related fault codes contributing to emissions-related MOT failures. Aggressive driving and infrequent software updates increase risk, making use of revised control logic and pump design critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2025-2028) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2025-2029). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The AE18 is generally robust when properly maintained, but pre-2025 models are prone to electric water pump failures. Later revisions (post-2025) improved pump design and control logic. Regular oil changes with correct 0W-40 specification and cooling system maintenance are essential. Well-serviced engines can exceed 120,000 km without major issues.
The most frequent issues are electric water pump failure (especially in early DB13), oil consumption in high-mileage engines, cooling system leaks, and throttle body motor wear. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins and supported by dealer repair records.
The AE18 powers the DB13 (2025–2030), next-generation Vantage (2025–2030), and Lagonda (2026–2030). It is entirely in-house developed and features 48V mild-hybrid integration. Each application features model-specific tuning and thermal management systems tailored to grand touring or luxury use.
Yes. ECU remapping can yield +45–65 kW gains safely. Intake and exhaust upgrades improve breathing. The stock turbochargers support higher boost with supporting modifications. Tuning should preserve factory reliability and use high-octane fuel to prevent knock and protect the GPF and hybrid system.
Moderate for a high-performance twin-turbo V8 with hybrid assist. In a DB13, expect ~16.2 L/100km (city) and ~10.1 L/100km (highway), or 17 mpg UK combined. The Lagonda achieves slightly better economy due to hybrid boost. Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style and fuel quality.
Yes. The AE18 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, causing catastrophic damage. Chain replacement is recommended every 120,000 km or 10 years, whichever comes first.
Aston Martin specifies Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 meeting WSS-M2C952-A1 standard. Oil must be changed every 10,000 km or 1 year. Using incorrect oil can accelerate turbo bearing and chain wear due to the high-temperature, high-pressure environment of the twin-turbo V8 with mild-hybrid assist.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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