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 engine…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The AE31 is a high-performance naturally aspirated engine with strong build quality. No widespread reliability issues have been reported, though pre-2023 models may develop intake carbon buildup if used primarily for short trips. Regular maintenance, use of RON 98+ fuel, and adherence to 12,000 km oil changes with OEM-specified oil ensure long-term durability.
The most documented issues are intake valve carbon buildup, high-pressure fuel pump wear, and minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. Timing chain tensioner wear has been noted in early builds. These are addressed in Aston Martin service information bulletins and field engineering updates.
The AE31 powers the DBS Superleggera (2020–2023), DB12 (2023–2025), and Valhalla (2024–2025). In the Valhalla, it is paired with a hybrid system. No non-Aston Martin applications exist. All models are Euro 6d compliant.
Limited tuning potential exists via ECU remap, typically yielding +20–30 kW on stage 1. Due to its naturally aspirated design, gains are modest compared to turbo engines. Supporting mods like exhaust and intake upgrades offer marginal benefits. Over-tuning risks valve train stress and is not recommended without internal reinforcement.
In the DB12, combined consumption is ~12.5 L/100km (22.8 mpg UK), with city driving reaching ~16.0 L/100km (17.7 mpg). Highway efficiency improves to ~9.8 L/100km (28.8 mpg). Real-world figures vary significantly with driving style. Hybrid-assisted Valhalla models achieve better economy under electric assist.
Yes. The AE31 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. Regular inspection of the chain and tensioner per service schedule is essential to prevent catastrophic failure.
Aston Martin specifies SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting Aston Martin Longlife-20 standards. Oil must be changed every 12,000 km or 12 months. Using correct oil ensures proper high-RPM lubrication and reduces intake carbon formation in this direct-injected engine.
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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