Back in August 2021 we learned that Aston Martin was planning a whole bunch of different DBX models, and I even went so far to suggest that a DBX coupe is inevitable. These new spy shots aren’t of that crazy model, but this is the DBX S – the high-performance DBX that you probably didn’t know you’d want. Our photographers caught it blazing around the Nürburgring in all its glory.

This appears to be the same vehicle that was sported doing some basic tow testing a few months back. It’s wearing the same license plate and the same (very cool) fire-red camouflage. The front end features a new fascia with a larger air flow opening in the bottom, which now extends to where the fog lights are usually housed. The quad exhaust outlets are different from the current DBX’s dual outlets, so that’s our first hint that there’s something even bigger under the hood. But what could it be?

The most prominent rumor is that Aston Martin will shoehorn the 5.2-liter V-12 from the Aston Martin DB11 under the hood. In its current configuration, it delivers 630 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, however, there could be something even more surprising. Another rumor suggests that Aston Martin will go with an AMG-sourced, twin-turbo V8 – the same one found in the regular DBX, but tuned to deliver closer to 700 horsepower. This would, at the very least, save weight from going with the V-12, so it would make a little bit of sense. That, of course, means Aston Martin has to squeeze out a significant power pump as the V-8 is currently only good for 542 horsepower.

Looking further ahead, other upgrades will likely include a new or – at the very least – upgrade transmission, and there’s no doubt that Aston Martin will have to retune the suspension too. Don’t expect the interior to change much outside of some new badging and, potentially, some better or more exclusive materials. The DBX S isn’t scheduled to launch until sometime in 2022, so chances are we’ll be seeing some more spy shots before that happens.