Aston Martin confirmed plans to jump on the SUV bandwagon back in 2015, when it created the DBX Concept, a sporty, coupe-style crossover with only two doors. Following several rumors and spy shots, the British firm confirmed the DBX nameplate and released the first official photos of the SUV.

The info comes as Aston Martin began testing the DBX on the demanding Welsh Rally course and also confirmed that the vehicle will arrive in the fourth quarter of 2019. The SUV is still wearing camouflage, but we can finally see how the production body and design look like.

Definitely an Aston Martin

Needless to say, the DBX blends in perfectly with Aston Martin's sports cars and grand tourer. Although taller than usual, it sports the familiar grille that's narrow at the top and significantly wider at the bottom. It's also flanked by slim headlamps that look a lot like the Vantage's. Of course, the more massive bumper and the plate under it give it that SUV-specific stance.

While the DBX Concept boasted a two-door, coupe-style profile, the production model looks a bit more conventional. There's a four-door layout, less aggressive side skirts, and a longer wheelbase. However, there are a few unique features that stand out, like the missing quarter windows, the straight cut of the rear door, and the big decklid spoiler in addition to the usual roof spoiler.

The rear section looks as if Aston Martin still has some work do though. The round taillights are likely just prototype units, while the tailgate extends a bit too much over the bumper. The latter looks really cool though with the two big tailpipes exiting on each side.

An Authentic Off-Roader

The photos suggest that Aston Martin really wants us to know that the DBX handles rough terrain. The SUV was tested for the first time on the Welsh Rally course, a circuit that only vehicles that are as tough as full-fledged rally cars can survive from start to finish. Aston Martin promises that the DBX will have "impressive multi-terrain and towing capabilities as befits a state-of-the-art SUV."

Testing will continue in other harsh environments, "from the frozen Arctic and scorching deserts of the Middle East to high Alpine passes." Of course, Aston Martin will also take the DBX on Germany's iconic Autobahn and the Nurburgring Nordschleife track.

What's Under the Hood?

We don't know that yet, but Aston Martin has a few options, including the 4.0-liter V-8 and the 5.2-liter V-12 engines, both turbocharged. While the V-12 isn't very likely to find its way into the DBX, the V-8 is definitely an option. But the DBX could also get a hybrid drivetrain or even an all-electric powertrain. Aston Martin is working on both as we speak.

First Vehicle Built in St. Athan

The DBX will be the first Aston Martin built at Aston Martin's brand-new facility in St. Athan. The state-of-the-art manufacturing plant will also become the official home of the company's all-electric vehicles in the near future.

Further Reading

Read our full review of the Aston Martin DBX Concept.