The Aston Martin M178 is a 3,982 cc, V8 twin — turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2023 under licence from Mercedes — AMG. It features a hot — V configuration with integrated exhaust manifolds, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and direct fuel injection. In standard tune it delivers 441 kW (600 PS), with higher — performance variants producing up to 515 kW (700 PS).
Fitted to the Aston Martin DB11 AMR, Vantage AMR, and DBS Superleggera, the M178 was engineered f…
Production years 2017–2019 meet Euro 6b standards; 2020–2023 models meet Euro 6d .
The Aston Martin M178 is a 3,982 cc V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2017–2023). It features a compact hot-V layout with turbochargers mounted inside the V, reducing lag and improving thermal efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances aggressive performance with daily drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,982 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON minimum) | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 441–515 kW (600–700 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
Torque | 700–800 Nm @ 2,000–5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (Bosch HDEV6, 350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6b (pre-2020); Euro 6d (2020–2023) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Dual-circuit liquid cooling | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll, low-inertia turbochargers (IHI) | |
Timing system | Timing chain (dual-row, front-mounted) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 209 kg |
The Aston Martin M178 was used across Aston Martin's DB11, Vantage, and DBS Superleggera platforms with longitudinal mounting and licensed from Mercedes-AMG. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—custom intake manifolds, exhaust tuning, and engine mounts—and from 2020, revised engine management software to improve cold-start emissions, creating minor software-based interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The M178's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking under repeated high-load cycles, with elevated incidence in track-driven vehicles. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2022 indicated a low but notable share of pre-2020 engines showing actuator binding before 80,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows minimal emissions-related failures. Short trips and infrequent oil changes increase wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2017-2023) and UK VCA failure statistics (2018-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M178 is fundamentally reliable when maintained properly. Early field data from Aston Martin (2017–2020) showed isolated cases of turbo actuator wear, but no widespread defects. Post-2020 software updates improved cold-start emissions and drivability. Regular oil changes with OEM-specified 0W-40 and use of premium fuel are essential for longevity. Well-maintained units are expected to exceed 120,000 km without major repairs.
The most documented issues are turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking (especially in pre-2020 units), intake manifold runner actuator faults, and occasional oil consumption above 1 L/1,000 km in high-mileage engines. ECU software glitches have been addressed via reflashes. These are covered in Aston Martin service bulletins and Mercedes-AMG engineering advisories.
The M178 is used exclusively in the Aston Martin DB11 AMR (2018–2023), Vantage AMR (2018–2022), and DBS Superleggera (2018–2023). It replaced the previous Mercedes-AMG-sourced M157 in these models. The engine is longitudinally mounted and paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. No other Aston Martin models currently use this engine.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M178 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Official combined consumption is ~13.2 L/100km (21 mpg UK) for the DB11 AMR. Real-world figures range from 15–18 L/100km (16–19 mpg UK) depending on driving style. Highway cruising can achieve ~11.5 L/100km (25 mpg UK). Fuel quality significantly impacts efficiency—use 98 RON for best results.
Yes. The M178 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal damage. This makes regular inspection and timely replacement of timing components critical. Any rattling at startup should be investigated immediately.
Aston Martin specifies SAE 0W-40 synthetic oil meeting API SP and ACEA A3/B4 standards. Change intervals are 12,000 km or 24 months, whichever comes first. Using incorrect viscosity or lower-spec oil can accelerate turbo and timing chain wear and reduce engine longevity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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