The Aston Martin VB6J is a 3,982 cc, twin — turbocharged V6 petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features a 60° V6 configuration, DOHC valvetrain, and direct fuel injection, delivering 330 kW (450 PS) and 670 Nm of torque. Its compact design and strong low — end response were engineered for agile sports car dynamics, with a redline of 7,000 rpm.
Fitted to the DB11 V6, Vantage (2018–2020), and Rapide S, this engine was co — developed with AMG and adapted for longitudin…
Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6c standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4789).
The Aston Martin VB6J is a 3,982 cc twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine developed in partnership with AMG (2016–2020). It features a 60° V6 layout with dual overhead camshafts and Bosch HDEV5 direct injection, delivering responsive throttle characteristics and strong low-RPM torque. Designed to meet Euro 6c emissions standards, it balances compact packaging with performance-oriented engineering.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,982 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 330 kW (450 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 670 Nm @ 2,000–5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin BorgWarner EFR 6758 with electronic wastegate control | |
Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted, 120,000 km interval) | |
Oil type | Aston Martin M-spec 0W-20 | |
Dry weight | 195 kg |
The Aston Martin VB6J was used in the DB and VB platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed under AMG collaboration. This engine received platform-specific tuning—optimized intake manifolds in the Vantage and revised exhaust headers in facelifted variants—and from 2018 the updated Vantage AMR adopted a higher-lift cam profile and modified ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The VB6J's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2017 indicated a measurable number of pre-2018 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows misfire-related faults in vehicles with poor maintenance. Short trips and low-load operation increase thermal stress and oil degradation, making high-quality oil and regular highway runs critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2021). 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 VB6J offers strong performance and refinement, but requires meticulous maintenance. Early models (2016–2017) had HPFP issues, and all variants are sensitive to oil neglect. With strict adherence to service intervals and use of high-octane fuel, these engines can achieve 140,000 km reliability. Regular inspections and proactive part replacement are essential for longevity.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump wear, timing chain tensioner wear, intake vacuum leaks, and turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins. Preventive maintenance—especially timely HPFP inspection and oil changes—significantly reduces risk of major repairs.
The VB6J powers the DB11 V6 (2016–2020), Vantage (2018–2020), and Rapide S (2016–2018). It is longitudinally mounted and tuned for sports car performance. No cross-manufacturer applications are documented. This engine was succeeded by the AE50 V8 in most models.
Yes. The VB6J responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 tunes typically adding +40–60 kW. Upgraded intercoolers, exhausts, and fuel systems allow higher gains. Tuning must preserve boost and thermal management limits to avoid reliability issues. Specialist tuners offer bespoke packages for Vantage and DB11 applications.
In combined driving, expect ~12.8 L/100km (22.0 mpg UK). Highway cruising can achieve ~9.5 L/100km (29.9 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 16 L/100km (17.7 mpg UK). Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style, fuel quality, and vehicle condition.
Yes. The VB6J is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, piston-to-valve contact will cause catastrophic internal damage. Regular inspection and replacement of the timing chains at 120,000 km or 8 years is critical to prevent costly engine rebuilds.
Aston Martin specifies M-spec 0W-20 synthetic oil. Change intervals are 15,000 km or annually. Using correct oil ensures proper turbo, chain, and VVT system lubrication, reducing wear and maintaining performance. Extended drain intervals risk turbo bearing failure and chain slippage.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
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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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