8 Exciting 2018 Aston Martin DB11 V8 Features

COMMAND is the Backbone of the Infotainment

In previous Aston Martins, the navigation and stereo system were old Volvo units. They’re from a time when Ford still owned the company. The flip-up screen was hard to read, it felt like more of an afterthought in a car that you’re supposed to be able to comfortably drive across the continent in.

That’s changed for the new DB11, including the V8. Since Aston Martin has full access to the Daimler catalog, they scored the COMMAND infotainment system found in most Mercedes-Benz products.

It means there’s a rotating wheel in the center console for most control functions. Buyers can opt for a trackpad touch control interface to sit atop the wheel.

Aston Martin has their own skin on the software, but you’ll feel right at home if your other car is a Mercedes. The system supports SiriusXM, Bluetooth audio and the standard stereo functions. Unfortunately, Android Auto or Apple Car Play aren’t available yet.

An optional Bang & Olufsen premium sound system includes sound drivers that literally pop up from the dash. It’s a neat effect that feels premium and the stereo sounds excellent.

The only real gripe about the infotainment is the touch-sensitive volume control on the center stack. Real buttons are easier to find when driving and the real feedback from the press lowers distraction.

There is a redundant volume control on the steering wheel and that’s what we constantly found ourselves using.