PETROL-powered and proud of it is the message from Aston Martin as it launches what is probably the world's most-powerful non-electric SUV.

The new 707bhp DBX S comes with a four-Litre twin-turbo V8 powerplant which employs technology transferred directly from the upcoming Valhalla supercar.

The new flagship version of the DBX is lighter and 20bhp more powerful than the DBX 707 and, while top speed remains the same at 193mph, it will sprint from 0-62mph in a mere 3.3 seconds and hit the 100mph mark in 7.2 seconds.

In addition to the power upgrade, a number of measures have been taken not only to significantly reduce the kerb weight of DBX S, including an optional carbon fibre roof -- the largest carbon element ever fitted to an Aston Martin - which gives a weight-saving of 18kg and reduces its centre of gravity.

Visually, the Aston Martin design team have ensured that no one who sees DBX S will be left in any doubt they're looking at the most sporting and dynamically capable ultra-luxury SUV on the market.

From the front, the new DBX S is instantly recognisable by its pure black vaned grille and a new splitter and diffuser. New side sills feature distinctive up-turned air splitters, but the most obvious visual changes are at the rear-end which is dominated by vertically-stacked, quad exhausts and a reprofiled rear bumper and diffuser.

Inside, the DBX S is trimmed as standard in lightweight sporting Alcantara, which can be seen on the seats, headlining, centre console, lower instrument panels and upper trim. The seats are trimmed in Alcantara and leather in a herringbone design with an embroidered ‘S' suffix and Aston Martin wings embossed on the headrests,

Luxury features include Aston's own in-house developed state-of-the-art infotainment system with a striking new cabin architecture and what the company calls "a formidable suite of connected car technology," which includes an 800w, 14-speaker surround sound audio system.

The DBX S continues a long tradition of Aston Martin using the ‘S' suffix for special, high-performance versions, the first being the Vanquish S which made its public debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2004.

Aston Martin CEO, Adrian Hallmark, says: "The introduction of DBX S not only reaffirms our commitment to producing the most exciting, rewarding and beautiful cars, it also sends a powerful statement of intent about our ambitions not just for DBX, but for the Aston Martin brand."

First deliveries of the DBX S are expected towards the end of the year and, while the company has not revealed pricing, buyers can expect a hefty premium on top of the £205,000 sticker price of the DBX 707 - with a long list of options available to push the investment even higher.