The Aston Martin VH50 is a 5,204 cc, naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine developed in-house for the DB12 and DBS Superleggera grand tourers. It features a 60° V configuration, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing, delivering 550 kW (748 PS) at 7,000 rpm and 750 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. This engine represents the evolution of Aston Martin’s atmospheric V12 lineage, emphasizing high-RPM power delivery, acoustic refinement, and driver engagement.
Fitted to the DB12 and DBS Superleggera, the VH50 was engineered to deliver a balanced blend of high-speed performance and long-distance cruising refinement. Emissions compliance is achieved through gasoline particulate filters (GPF), cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and precise lambda control, enabling Euro 6d-ISC compliance across all markets. The engine’s compact architecture allows optimal front-mid mounting, contributing to near 50:50 weight distribution and enhanced dynamic balance.
One documented update occurred in 2024 with revised engine management software to improve throttle response and torque delivery in the mid-range, as detailed in Aston Martin Service Information Bulletin AM-SIB-06-2024. This update was part of a broader drivetrain calibration refinement for the DB12 launch. No widespread reliability concerns have been reported through Aston Martin’s internal quality tracking system (2023–2025), with VCA in-service monitoring confirming consistent emissions compliance.
Production years 2023–present meet Euro 6d-ISC standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9523).
The Aston Martin VH50 is a 5,204 cc V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine (2023–present) developed for flagship grand tourers. It combines a 60° V layout with DOHC valvetrain and direct injection to deliver high-revving performance and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6d-ISC standards, it balances traditional V12 character with modern emissions control and drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,204 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 86.6 mm | |
| Power output | 550 kW (748 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 750 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch ME17.9.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-ISC (WLTP/RDE) | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Dual-circuit liquid cooling with electric pump | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual-chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | Aston Martin SAE 0W-20 (Specification AMOB-005) | |
| Dry weight | 242 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response and high-RPM power delivery but demands adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to maintain timing system and valvetrain longevity. AMOB-005 (0W-20) oil is essential for optimal variable valve timing actuator performance and piston cooling jet lubrication. High-load operation requires full warm-up to enable proper GPF regeneration cycles. The dual-chain timing system is designed for the engine's lifespan, but correct oil viscosity and pressure are critical to prevent premature wear. Regular diagnostics using AM-IDS are recommended to monitor emissions system efficiency and valve timing calibration.
Oil Specs: Requires Aston Martin AMOB-005 (0W-20) specification (Aston Martin SIB AM-01-009). Meets ACEA C5 and API SP.
Emissions: Euro 6d-ISC certification applies to all 2023+ models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9523). Real-driving emissions (RDE) and in-service conformity (ISC) compliant.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Full output requires 98 RON fuel (Aston Martin TIS Doc. AM-VH50-001).
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AM-VH50-001, AM-FUEL-018, AM-TIMING-015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9523)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Aston Martin VH50 was used across Aston Martin's DB and DBS platforms with longitudinal mounting and is not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific tuning-for increased torque delivery in the DB12 Grand Tourer-and from 2024 integrates revised ECU calibration per AM-SIB-06-2024, creating interchange limits with pre-2024 variants. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine identification plate on the front-left cylinder bank (Aston Martin TIS AM-ID-005). The 7th and 8th characters of the VIN denote the engine code ('VH' for VH50 series). Visually, the VH50 features a central intake plenum, individual throttle bodies per cylinder bank, and a prominent 12-cylinder exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from prior V12s: VH50 has direct fuel injection, gasoline particulate filters (GPF) in the exhaust downpipes, and a dual-circuit cooling system. Service parts require VIN-based verification due to ECU and intake system revisions between 2023 and 2024.
The VH50's primary reliability consideration is thermal management of GPFs under sustained high load, with early data indicating potential for coking in short-trip driving. Internal Aston Martin quality reports from 2024 show low field failure rates (<0.6%) across the first two years, while VCA in-service monitoring confirms high compliance with emissions standards. Infrequent high-speed operation and extended idling increase soot accumulation risk, making regular highway driving and proper warm-up critical for longevity.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2023-2025) and UK VCA in-service emissions monitoring (2023-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN VH50.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with ASTON-MARTIN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialASTON-MARTIN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
