A NEW chapter in Aston Martin's history began at the 86th Geneva Motor Show with the unveiling of the DB11.

The first product launched under the company's "Second Century" plan, the DB11 is the bold new figurehead of the illustrious "DB" bloodline and an authentic, dynamic sporting GT in the finest Aston Martin tradition.

Like every Aston Martin, the heart of the DB11 is found beneath the bonnet, though unlike any Aston Martin before it, the DB11's heart is a 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12.

Designed in-house this new engine develops 600bhp making DB11 the most powerful production DB model ever.

It gives the new Aston Martin a top speed of 200mphand a 0-62mph time of just 3.9 seconds.

Built upon a new lighter, stronger, and more space efficient bonded aluminium structure, Aston Martin says that the DB11 is not only the most powerful car it has put on the road but it is also the most efficient and most dynamically gifted DB model in the company's 103 year history.

The DB models take their name from David Brown, who bought the company in 1947 with the first DB car, the DB2, arriving in the 1950s.

Aston Martin's current boss Dr Andy Palmer, said as the car was unveiled at the Geneva show: "A brand new bonded aluminium platform, clever aerodynamics, a new characterful twin-turbo V12 and class-leading infotainment systems are just a few aspects which make this the sports car that will proudly spearhead Aston Martin's second century plan."

Technically, the new supercar comes with some key new technologies including multiple driver-selectable dynamic modes - GT, Sport and Sport Plus - progressively intensify the response of the engine, eight-speed automatic ZF transmission together with the new electric power steering and torque vectoring by braking while increasing the firmness of the adaptive damping for a greater sense of agility.

Inside it comes with the latest driving aids and technology including a full-colour 12-in LCD display with a second, centrally-mounted 8-in screen is dedicated to infotainment.

Also on offer is a new satellite navigation and audio system and an auto-park assist feature with 360-degree birds-eye view camera which helps provide safe manoeuvring at slow speeds and is also operated via the car's infotainment system.

Dr Palmer added: "This is not only the most important car that Aston Martin has launched in recent history, but also in its 103-year existence. The DB11 rightfully places Aston Martin once again as a leading brand in the luxury automotive market".

Recommended Retail Price from £154,900 in the UK