The Aston Martin AE31 is a 3,982 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2025. It powers select grand tourers and performance variants, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and direct fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 528 kW (725 PS) and 700 Nm of torque, enabling high-speed refinement and linear power delivery.
Fitted to models such as the DB12, DBS Superleggera, and Valhalla, the AE31 was engineered for premium grand touring and high-performance driving dynamics. Its design emphasizes throttle responsiveness, acoustic refinement, and sustained high-speed capability. Emissions compliance is achieved through integrated close-coupled catalytic converters and advanced engine management, meeting Euro 6d standards across all markets.
One documented update is the transition to a revised intake manifold and camshaft profiles in 2023, highlighted in Aston Martin Engineering Directive ED-AE31-05. This change improved mid-range torque and reduced intake noise. No major reliability concerns have been issued via official service bulletins; ongoing monitoring is maintained through AM-TIS field reports.
Production years 2020–2025 meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Aston Martin AE31 is a 3,982 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance grand touring (2020–2025). It combines direct injection with variable valve timing to deliver linear power and acoustic refinement. Designed to meet Euro 6d, it balances track-capable performance with road-going usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,982 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 71.8 mm | |
| Power output | 528 kW (725 PS) @ 7,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 5,500–6,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch MED17 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 13.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Aston Martin Longlife-20 (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 228 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides immediate throttle response and high-rpm power ideal for spirited driving, but demands strict adherence to 12,000 km oil change intervals to maintain valve train longevity. Aston Martin Longlife-20 (0W-20) oil is critical due to its low-viscosity formulation protecting high-RPM components. Extended idling should be avoided to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. The Bosch MED17 ECU requires OEM-grade diagnostics for calibration updates. Post-2023 models feature revised cam profiles and intake tuning; retrofitting is not supported. Catalytic converters require high-octane fuel (RON 98+) to prevent thermal degradation.
Oil Specs: Requires Aston Martin Longlife-20 (0W-20) specification (Aston Martin SIB 16 08 30). Supersedes ACEA C5.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2020–2025 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires RON 98+ fuel (Aston Martin TIS Doc. AM-AE31-PWR).
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AM-AE31-2020, SIB 14 05 21, SIB 16 08 30
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Aston Martin AE31 was used across Aston Martin's DB and Valhalla platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the DBS and tuned exhaust manifolds in the Valhalla-and from 2023 the facelifted DB12 adopted revised camshaft profiles and intake tuning, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine identification plate mounted on the front-left cylinder bank near the timing cover (Aston Martin TIS AM-AE31-ID). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('V' for AE31 series). Pre-2023 models have silver valve covers with black trim; post-2023 units use gloss black covers. Critical differentiation from turbocharged units: AE31 has no intercooler or turbo plumbing. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds and ECU calibrations for DB12 (2023+) are not interchangeable with earlier DBS units (Aston Martin SIB 15 04 12).
The AE31's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup in low-speed urban use, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2024 noted a moderate share of pre-2023 units showing reduced airflow by 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records indicate a low but growing number of emissions-related failures in city-driven DBS models. Short trips and infrequent high-RPM operation increase deposit formation, making oil quality and driving pattern management critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2020–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN AE31.
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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
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