The Aston Martin DB12 has been making headlines recently, especially after a wealthy individual bought the first example at a star-studded charity auction for $1.6 million. The funds raised from the auction will be used for AIDS research, and Aston Martin Chairman Lawrence Stroll expressed his excitement for the new DB12, saying that it “elevates it well beyond the current GT category.”

The winning bidder will receive the very first DB12, which is a Launch Edition that features an Iridescent Emerald exterior and special touches curated by the Q by Aston Martin bespoke service. These include special badging, unique headrest embroidery, and special door sill plates. The winning bidder will also have the rare opportunity for Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One Team drivers Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso to personally add their signatures to the engine cover.

While the DB12 may sound like a completely new model, it is actually more evolutionary than the name suggests. It is the successor to the DB11 and sports updated styling and a vastly improved interior. The latter has a modern digital instrument cluster, an all-new 10.25-inch infotainment system, and higher quality materials.

One of the most significant changes in the DB12 is its engine. While the infotainment system is no longer sourced from Mercedes, the engine is still a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8. It produces 671 hp (500 kW / 680 PS) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque, which is more than the old V12. Thanks to this and other changes, the DB12 can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.6 seconds and hit a top speed of 202 mph (325 km/h).

Overall, the Aston Martin DB12 promises to be a better driver’s car than its predecessor, thanks to its improved engine and updated interior. The fact that the first example sold for $1.6 million at a charity auction only highlights the excitement surrounding this new model.