The Aston Martin M178 is a 3,982 cc, V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2023 under licence from Mercedes-AMG. It features a hot-V configuration with integrated exhaust manifolds, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and direct fuel injection. In standard tune it delivers 441 kW (600 PS), with higher-performance variants producing up to 515 kW (700 PS).
Fitted to the Aston Martin DB11 AMR, Vantage AMR, and DBS Superleggera, the M178 was engineered for high-performance driving with sharp throttle response and elevated torque delivery. Emissions compliance is achieved through gasoline particulate filter (GPF) technology and precise lambda control, enabling Euro 6b and later Euro 6d compliance across all markets.
One documented update occurred in 2020, where Aston Martin revised the engine management software to improve cold-start emissions and throttle calibration. This change, referenced in Aston Martin Service Information Bulletin AM-SIB-ENG-022, did not alter mechanical components but enhanced drivability. No major reliability concerns have been issued by Aston Martin regarding the M178 platform.
Production years 2017–2019 meet Euro 6b standards; 2020–2023 models meet Euro 6d (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8845).
The Aston Martin M178 is a 3,982 cc V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2017–2023). It features a compact hot-V layout with turbochargers mounted inside the V, reducing lag and improving thermal efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances aggressive performance with daily drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,982 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON minimum) | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 441–515 kW (600–700 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 700–800 Nm @ 2,000–5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (Bosch HDEV6, 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b (pre-2020); Euro 6d (2020–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Dual-circuit liquid cooling | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-scroll, low-inertia turbochargers (IHI) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (dual-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 0W-40, API SP, ACEA A3/B4 | |
| Dry weight | 209 kg |
The twin-turbocharged M178 delivers strong low-end torque ideal for spirited driving and rapid acceleration. Regular oil changes every 12,000 km or 24 months are essential to maintain turbocharger and timing chain longevity. OEM-specified 0W-40 oil ensures optimal valve train lubrication and thermal stability. Fuel quality is critical—use 98 RON premium unleaded to prevent knock and maintain performance. The hot-V turbo layout improves throttle response but increases underhood temperatures, requiring periodic inspection of heat shielding and intercooler ducts. No major software or hardware revisions affect interchangeability.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 0W-40 meeting API SP and ACEA A3/B4 (Aston Martin SIB AM-OIL-2018-1).
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to 2020–2023 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8845). Pre-2020 units meet Euro 6b.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output dependent on fuel quality and ambient conditions (Mercedes-AMG Test Procedure TP-M178-008).
Mercedes-AMG M178 Service Manual v4.1
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AM-ENG-M178-001, AM-TIMING-004
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8845)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Aston Martin M178 was used across Aston Martin's DB11, Vantage, and DBS Superleggera platforms with longitudinal mounting and licensed from Mercedes-AMG. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—custom intake manifolds, exhaust tuning, and engine mounts—and from 2020, revised engine management software to improve cold-start emissions, creating minor software-based interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-hand side of the engine block, near the front cover (Mercedes-AMG Spec. Drawing M178-ENG-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M178). Pre-2020 models use ECU part number 89663-0E010; post-2020 units use 89663-0E020 with updated cold-start calibration. Critical differentiation: DBS models have higher-boost turbos and freer-flowing exhausts, while Vantage units use tuned intake runners for mid-range response. Service parts require model and production date verification—ECUs and turbos are not cross-compatible.
The M178's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking under repeated high-load cycles, with elevated incidence in track-driven vehicles. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2022 indicated a low but notable share of pre-2020 engines showing actuator binding before 80,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows minimal emissions-related failures. Short trips and infrequent oil changes increase wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2017-2023) and UK VCA failure statistics (2018-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN M178.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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