Aston Martin DBX vs. Rolls-Royce Cullinan: Complete comparison 2026

Aston Martin DBX represents the legendary British brand's first historical entry into the luxury SUV segment, where it successfully combines stunning sports dynamics with unmistakable elegance. In contrast, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan defines the absolute pinnacle of automotive opulence and majesty, offering its occupants an unparalleled level of comfort even on the most demanding journeys. Let's take a detailed look at how these two British aristocrats stand in direct comparison and which of them represents the better choice for your specific premium vehicle requirements.

When comparing the exterior dimensions of both luxury SUVs on the used car market, focusing on models roughly four years old (the first generation of both vehicles), it is immediately apparent that the Rolls-Royce Cullinan plays in a significantly more massive league. With a total length of 5341 mm, the Cullinan is a significant 302 mm longer than the sporty-styled Aston Martin DBX, which measures 5039 mm. This difference is also directly reflected in the wheelbase, where the Rolls-Royce offers a generous 3295 mm compared to 3060 mm for the Aston Martin. In terms of practical use, this means the Cullinan provides rear-seat passengers with much more legroom, which fully aligns with its focus on maximum comfort and frequent use with a personal chauffeur. On the other hand, the Cullinan's massive wheelbase and length require more caution when parking in the city and underground garages.

Another key difference is the overall height of both vehicles. While the Aston Martin DBX, with a height of 1680 mm, maintains a more athletic, aerodynamic silhouette typical of dynamically oriented SUVs, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan towers majestically at a height of 1835 mm. The 155 mm height difference provides the Cullinan's occupants with noticeably easier entry and an excellent "commanding" view of the surrounding traffic. However, the DBX benefits from its overall lower body structure through a lower center of gravity, which gives it significantly more confident and sportier handling in corners. The width of both vehicles (excluding mirrors) is surprisingly similar; the Aston Martin measures 1998 mm and the Cullinan roughly 2000 mm, although early specifications for the Cullinan stated a total width of up to 2164 mm depending on the measurement methodology.

The choice between these two models from a dimensional perspective clearly defines their different characters. If you are looking for an unmistakable road presence and uncompromising interior space, even at the cost of more cumbersome maneuverability in tight spaces, the British aristocrat Rolls-Royce Cullinan is the clear winner. Conversely, the Aston Martin DBX, with its slightly more compact and lower proportions, represents the ideal choice for drivers who require a practical and luxury SUV but do not want to give up a direct driving experience and everyday agility.

When choosing between four-year-old used cars in the ultra-luxury SUV segment, such as the Aston Martin DBX (1st generation) and Rolls-Royce Cullinan (1st generation), luggage compartment volume might seem like a purely technical detail. Yet, it is precisely practicality and everyday family usability that often decide which car becomes the favorite companion for weekend getaways. While both vehicles offer uncompromising premium craftsmanship and majestic dimensions, their approach to cargo transport exactly reflects their character – Aston Martin bets on sporty versatility, while Rolls-Royce offers a generous volume that can, however, be radically limited by the chosen interior equipment.

In its basic configuration, the Aston Martin DBX offers a very generous 632 liters of luggage space. This volume is perfectly sufficient for a weekend shopping trip or a longer vacation, while the excellent shaping of the trunk means you get space for several extra suitcases compared to more design-restricted competitors. Three sets of golf clubs fit in the back without any problems. On the other hand, the bulkier Rolls-Royce Cullinan has a slightly smaller basic space of 560 liters, which can be increased to 600 liters after removing the massive rear parcel shelf. Although the basic capacity is slightly lower, the Cullinan scores with an absolutely flat loading surface and unrivaled access thanks to the unique two-part tailgate called "The Clasp".

Fundamental differences in terms of flexibility occur when you need to transport bulkier cargo. The Aston Martin DBX features rear seats split in a practical 40:20:40 ratio, which when folded down provide a maximum volume of 1530 liters. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan, on the other hand, can transform into a true giant – if it is factory-equipped with the traditional three-seat rear bench (Lounge Seats), the backrests can be electronically folded to create a cargo space with an amazing volume of 1930 liters. However, there is one huge and important specific. A significant portion of Cullinans on the used car market are configured with so-called Individual Seats, i.e., two separate armchairs separated by a fixed center console with a cooling box and a glass partition. In this purely luxury variant, the rear seats cannot be folded at all, and the trunk capacity remains forever limited to the basic 560 liters.

As a result, this dimension fundamentally influences the final choice of vehicle. The Aston Martin DBX represents an agile and flexible choice for active families who require the certainty of a large trunk under all circumstances. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan, by contrast, is a car of absolute extremes – it can offer either the sovereignly largest volume in its class when folded, or in the configuration with separate armchairs, it voluntarily sacrifices practicality on the altar of perfect passenger comfort.

Towing capacity for ultra-luxury SUVs is a key parameter for owners who expect not only maximum comfort and prestige from their vehicle, but also practicality for leisure activities and travel. Whether we look at the sporty Aston Martin DBX or the opulent Rolls-Royce Cullinan – in both cases, we are talking about the first generation, which forms an ideal and relevant offering in the market for approximately four-year-old used cars – in terms of towing power, these models offer completely identical and highly above-average values.

• Braked trailer: Both the British athlete and the aristocratic majesty have a maximum braked trailer weight of a respectable 2700 kg.
• Unbraked trailer: The standard unbraked trailer can weigh the legally limited 750 kg for both cars.

Interestingly, this generous standard and maximum towing capacity remains completely constant across all available engine options. For the Aston Martin DBX, this applies to both the base variant with 405 kW and the extremely powerful DBX707 (520 kW) and DBX S (535 kW) versions. It is exactly the same for the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, where you safely maintain the maximum value of 2700 kg with both the base twelve-cylinder (420 kW) and the uprated Black Badge version with 441 kW. Although some competing models in other classes often offer hybrid variants with significantly reduced towing capacity, in the case of these two uncompromising vehicles with purely internal combustion engines, you will not encounter such compromises at all.

In practice, these parameters mean that both cars can handle towing a luxury yacht, a heavy caravan, or a large horse trailer without the slightest problem. Alternatively, connecting even a smaller luggage trailer will provide the desired space for several extra suitcases, which is a reliable solution perfectly sufficient for weekend shopping or a longer holiday with the whole family.

In terms of towing ability and overall utility for towing, you won't go wrong with either of these models. They are completely equal in this regard, and the final choice of your dream SUV will thus depend purely on whether you prefer the sharper driving dynamics and sporting genes of the Aston Martin, or conversely, the unrivaled silence and absolute floating isolation on board the Rolls-Royce.

When comparing the engine options of these two super-luxury SUVs, their differing philosophies are fully revealed. While the Aston Martin DBX bets on an aggressive and sporty character, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan relies on traditional British aristocracy in the form of a mammoth twelve-cylinder engine. For those interested in a used car roughly four years old, this means a choice between adrenaline and absolute serenity. Both models feature exclusively petrol engines, all-wheel drive, and automatic transmissions, but any form of electrification, such as mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid systems, is completely absent. While the Aston Martin will delight drivers looking for uncompromising performance and the sharp soundscape of a sports car, the Rolls-Royce offers unrivaled velvety operation, where you are almost unaware of the massive engine's work inside the cabin.

Aston Martin DBX

Under the hood of the Aston Martin DBX, you will find exclusively a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, which the British brand sources from its German partner, Mercedes-AMG. In the standard version, available in the first generation (2020–2025), this unit provides 405 kW of power and 700 Nm of torque, which is more than enough to reach 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. A classic nine-speed automatic transmission handles the power delivery to all four wheels.

For more demanding drivers and performance enthusiasts, the flagship DBX707 version has been available since 2022. It features an upgraded engine tuned to an impressive 520 kW (707 hp) with a massive 900 Nm of torque. To achieve acceleration from zero to one hundred in 3.3 seconds, it also uses a different nine-speed transmission, which in the DBX707 version utilizes a wet clutch for faster and sharper shifts. It should be noted that the newly announced DBX S version (available only from the end of 2025) is naturally not yet present on the four-year-old used car market.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan

The engine lineup for the Rolls-Royce Cullinan (first generation 2019–2024) is a celebration of traditional luxury, dominated by a majestic 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V12 (often referred to as a 6.8 V12). In the standard version, which is most commonly found on the used market, the engine produces 420 kW and 850 Nm of torque. Its main task, however, is not to tear up the asphalt, but to provide a perfectly smooth, refined, and almost silent pull from any RPM. Power delivery is ensured by a velvety-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF.

For those who want a slightly more authoritative pull and a darker visual style, Rolls-Royce prepared the Black Badge variant. In this version, engineers slightly increased the V12's output to 441 kW (600 hp) and brought the torque up to a massive 900 Nm. Both of these engines strictly reject any modern downsizing trends and remain faithful to their enormous displacement. The new Series II generation only entered the market in May 2024, so it will not play a role for those interested in a four-year-old used car.

Choosing the right engine is crucial for long-term satisfaction with these ultra-luxury SUVs, with both brands taking a completely different approach to propulsion. While Aston Martin relies on the proven, explosive, and emotive V8 from the Mercedes-AMG workshops, oriented towards driving experiences, Rolls-Royce utilizes a technical gem in the form of a massive twin-turbocharged twelve-cylinder, which is instead tuned for absolute acoustic comfort and effortless pull without vibration. Our following recommendations for the four-year-old used car market are based on real-world operating experience, optimal power balance, verifiable mechanical reliability, and owner feedback.

For the Aston Martin DBX, we recommend: 4.0 V8 Bi-Turbo, 405 kW (550 hp)

This four-liter twin-turbocharged V8 represents the most rational and balanced choice for the used car market. We recommend the standard 1st generation version, produced from October 2020 to April 2025. Please note that it is no longer available as a new car, as it has been completely replaced by the more powerful but significantly more maintenance-intensive DBX707 variant. The engine technically excels with a great torque curve (700 Nm) with massive pull from the lowest revs and a fantastic, mechanical-sounding exhaust note. In terms of real-world consumption, it is possible to achieve around a reasonable 14 liters per 100 km during normal driving. It is a robust power unit where the main risk and weakness is excessive thermal load on the turbochargers and oil coking if the previous owner did not properly cool the car down after dynamic highway driving. When inspecting a used car, also carefully check the condition of the expensive brake components and suspension, which degrade faster due to high weight and a sharp pace. This engine is ideal for drivers with a dynamic style who are looking for the driving characteristics and emotions of a sports car but need the practicality of a family SUV for fast, long-distance travel across Europe.

For the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, we recommend: 6.75 V12, 420 kW (571 hp)

The twelve-cylinder with the traditional 6.75-liter displacement is the absolute pinnacle of refinement and clearly the most suitable choice for the majestic Cullinan model. For the target market of roughly four-year-old used cars, the standard 1st generation version, which was available from October 2020 to May 2024 when it was replaced on the new car market by the refreshed Series II, makes the most sense. Technical strengths include a massive 850 Nm of torque available from just 1600 rpm, ensuring the car's legendary effortless pull and movement without any vibration. Although the engine itself is exceptionally mechanically reliable, the main risk is carbon buildup on the intake valves and clogged direct injectors. This occurs primarily in cars that spend most of their time in slow city traffic. You can recognize it by a slight fluctuation in idle speed or minor vibrations when cold. Prevention involves regular warming up of the unit on smooth highway routes and strictly refueling with premium fuel with additives. A car with this engine is primarily intended for calmer but highly demanding drivers or owners using chauffeur services, for whom absolute silence, perfect isolation from the outside world, and an unrivaled level of travel comfort are priorities.

In the luxury SUV category, it is quite common for official fuel consumption figures to differ significantly from real-world usage. Although fuel costs are not a primary constraint for those interested in a vehicle at this price point, overall consumption fundamentally affects the range per tank, which is a key comfort parameter during long highway journeys. Real-world data from owners on European fuel-sharing platforms, such as Spritmonitor.de, as well as long-term independent tests, clearly show that you cannot cheat physics. The combination of high weight, enormous power, and the aerodynamics of a large SUV simply requires an adequate supply of fuel.

The table below summarizes the average consumption for the most common engines of both first-generation models, which dominate the market for roughly four-year-old used cars (i.e., vehicles manufactured primarily between 2019 and 2022).

A closer look at the data reveals that the Aston Martin DBX, with its relatively smaller four-liter V8 (the base of which comes from the Mercedes-AMG division), manages to be slightly more economical. An interesting finding is that even for the top-of-the-line and very popular DBX707 version, thanks to modern engine management, the real-world average consumption stays at a very similar level of around 14.2 liters per 100 kilometers. Conversely, the British aristocrat Rolls-Royce does not rely on any downsizing, and its massive twelve-cylinder engine with a traditional displacement of 6.75 liters demands a larger portion. In the base version, expect a long-term average of about 15.2 liters, while in the more powerful Black Badge version, consumption moves towards the 16.3 l/100 km mark. It should be added that as soon as these vehicles spend more time in heavy city traffic, the trip computer values for both British competitors very quickly attack the 20-liter mark.

From the perspective of a typical user, the difference of an average of 1 to 2 liters higher consumption for the Rolls-Royce primarily means that you will be a slightly more frequent guest at gas stations. Thanks to its lower curb weight and slightly more sophisticated aerodynamics geared towards sportier driving, the Aston Martin DBX is a more efficient choice for dynamic cross-continental travel. The Cullinan, on the other hand, quite understandably sacrifices part of its efficiency on the altar of unrivaled refinement, robustness, and absolute quietness of operation, which only a V12 configuration can offer.

In total, however, the average fuel consumption of these roughly four-year-old super-luxury used cars is certainly not a parameter that would decide the purchase on its own. The final choice between the Aston Martin DBX and the Rolls-Royce Cullinan rests on pure preferences in the character of the vehicle. You either choose a more aggressive and agile SUV with a slightly more economical V8, or you go for absolute majesty and smoothness, which are understandably traded for the slightly higher appetite of the traditional twelve-cylinder.

Estimated prices of 4-year-old models (2021–2022)

The table below shows the current market range of these luxury SUVs on the European market, converted to Euros. Prices may vary depending on mileage, history, and specific equipment.

Aston Martin DBX: More accessible British luxury

• Steeper depreciation: The Aston Martin DBX suffers from more significant value loss in its early years. For a used car buyer, however, this represents a huge advantage – a four-year-old car can be purchased for a fraction of its original list price.
• Difference in versions: While base versions with the 550 hp V8 engine drop towards the €103,000 mark, the extremely powerful and more sought-after DBX707 variant (introduced in 2022) holds its value significantly better and often approaches the €144,000 mark and beyond.
• Availability and choice: The DBX is relatively well-represented on the used car market. Greater competition among sellers gives buyers a better negotiating position and the opportunity to choose from a more diverse palette of color combinations.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan: Exclusivity without compromise

• More stable value: Thanks to its absolute exclusivity, hand-built production, and slower life cycle, Rolls-Royce holds its value much more stably. Although the price drop is still high in absolute numbers, percentage-wise, the Cullinan is among the top performers in the entire automotive market.
• Influence of the Bespoke program: The price of a used Cullinan is radically influenced by its original configuration. Unique paints, the Starlight Headliner, or the popular darkened Black Badge version can easily push the price of even a four-year-old unit well above €330,000.
• Limited supply: There are significantly fewer used Cullinan models on the market. Owners rarely part with them, which keeps prices artificially high. It is a status symbol that is not expected to make price concessions.

Market Dynamics Assessment

If you are looking for a sporty luxury SUV with British pedigree and want the maximum utility for your money, a used Aston Martin DBX is an exceptionally tempting choice. Its price on the used market corresponds to better-equipped and much more common premium SUVs from German brands. Conversely, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, even as a four-year-old used car, requires a budget that operates in an entirely different galaxy. Buying a used Cullinan is not a matter of saving money, but rather shortening the long waiting times for a new vehicle and a desire for absolute luxury.

Active and Passive Safety

In standard automotive comparisons, we would start here with a general statement that both cars received a full five-star Euro NCAP rating, and then we would emphasize the importance of context and the year of testing. It is necessary to keep in mind that Euro NCAP testing protocols are constantly evolving and becoming stricter. New frontal crash simulations, cyclist detection, or complex intersection scenarios are taken into account, which is why percentage scores from different years cannot be directly compared. However, in the case of ultra-luxury used cars, such as the roughly four-year-old Aston Martin DBX and Rolls-Royce Cullinan models, we encounter a specific characteristic of the highest automotive class. Due to their enormous purchase price and low production volumes, these cars have never undergone Euro NCAP testing. Destroying several units worth hundreds of thousands of euros would simply be too costly for independent institutions.

The Aston Martin DBX therefore does not have any official Euro NCAP crash test certificate. However, this in no way diminishes its real-world safety on the road. During development, the brand relied on an extremely strong bonded aluminum platform designed for maximum torsional rigidity and reliable absorption of impact energy. In terms of active safety, the DBX was endowed with a generous package of technologies. Here we find adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic warning, and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Since the Aston Martin is primarily a car built for driving pleasure, these systems function more as discreet support and are not set to aggressively take control of the vehicle.

The same situation applies to the majestic Rolls-Royce Cullinan, which also completely lacks Euro NCAP laboratory data, and safety certification is not expected in the future either. Rolls-Royce relies primarily on the so-called "Architecture of Luxury," its own exceptionally rigid aluminum spaceframe. Furthermore, the car's massive curb weight exceeding 2.6 tons gives passengers an undeniable physical advantage in the event of an accident with a conventional car. Naturally, the Cullinan draws the best from the technological arsenal of its parent company, BMW. The result is a top-tier assistance package that, in addition to standard features, includes a night vision system with advanced wildlife and pedestrian detection, driver alertness assist, a sophisticated four-camera system with a panoramic view, and enhanced collision warning.

Although neither model can offer precise percentage data from independent crash tests, in terms of current standards, both cars guarantee the absolute pinnacle of passive and active safety. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan offers a slightly more modern and comprehensive approach to protection, primarily thanks to the implementation of cutting-edge technologies from BMW's development centers, such as proactive night vision. In contrast, the Aston Martin DBX offers a complete but somewhat more traditional set of assistance features, which are calibrated with a greater emphasis on an undisturbed and natural sporty driving feel.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer. While the first bets on an absolute driving experience and sporting emotions, the second defines the very pinnacle of automotive luxury with an unrivaled emphasis on passenger comfort.

Aston Martin DBX: Unmistakable dynamics and British style

This model was designed from the outset to transfer the brand's typical sporting genes into a more practical body, which is also significantly reflected in the technology and accessories used.

• Chassis and stabilization: The DBX uses unique air suspension in combination with an electronic active anti-roll system (eARC) operating on a 48V network. This system can defy the laws of physics in corners, minimizing lateral body roll and offering agility comparable to traditional GT cars.
• Engine and power transmission: At its heart is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel drive actively prefers the rear axle (up to 100% of power can go to the rear), thus maintaining the car's purely sporty character and playfulness.
• Sporting derivatives: For those interested in extreme performance, there is the ultimate DBX707 version. It brings completely redesigned technology, a sharper design, and 707 horsepower, ranking it among the fastest mass-produced SUVs on the market.
• Innovative interior materials: In addition to premium leather, Aston Martin offers unique upholstery made from a blend of luxurious natural wool. This material is highly breathable, warm in winter, cool in summer, and represents a very elegant alternative for those who do not seek out leather.
• Smart solutions for everyday life: The automaker offers so-called "Lifestyle" packages tailored to the owners' hobbies. For example, a "Pet Package" is available, containing a portable dog washer and protective partitions, or a "Snow Package" equipped with ski boot heaters directly in the luggage compartment.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan: Architecture of luxury and endless comfort

The first SUV with the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine on the hood prides itself on absolute isolation from the disturbing influences of the outside world and detailed features that cannot be found in any other brand.

• Chassis and electronics: The car uses the sophisticated "Magic Carpet Ride" system, which combines advanced air suspension with a camera system scanning the road ahead. Based on the image, the electronics instantly adjust the stiffness of the shock absorbers and filter out all irregularities into perfect smoothness.
• Engine with intelligent transmission: A massive 6.75-liter twelve-cylinder works quietly deep inside. Unique is the connection of the eight-speed automatic transmission with satellite navigation (Satellite Aided Transmission), thanks to which the car "sees" corners or climbs ahead and shifts to the optimal gear completely imperceptibly in advance.
• Iconic comfort features: Rear passengers enter through traditional rear-hinged doors (so-called coach doors), which have integrated heated Teflon umbrellas. Upon request, the car's ceiling can be fitted with the iconic "Starlight Headliner" feature, which uses thousands of optical fibers to precisely simulate a starry night sky, including shooting stars.
• Unique luggage compartment accessories: The Cullinan is the only car to offer the optional "Viewing Suite". These are two fold-out, leather-trimmed seats with a table that emerge from the bottom of the trunk at the touch of a button – ideal for watching the sunset or a sporting match.
• Specific editions: For a younger clientele and customers with a desire for a more aggressive appearance, the Black Badge specification is intended. It transforms chrome elements into a dark finish, increases engine power, adjusts throttle response, and brings an overall more unconventional approach to aristocratic luxury.

The Aston Martin DBX is the perfect choice for enthusiastic drivers who require the practicality of an SUV but refuse to compromise on sporty driving and attractive British design. It is a dynamically oriented car that can convey emotions behind the wheel in a way that is not commonly found in this size and weight category.

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan represents the absolute pinnacle of automotive luxury for those seeking uncompromising travel comfort, perfect silence, and maximum social prestige. This model functions more as an opulent mobile palace than a classic family SUV, and will be especially appreciated by passengers desiring perfect isolation from the outside world.

Based on our own inspections via the CarAudit service, breakdown statistics, service bulletins, and long-term owner experiences, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems for both cars. Given the high prices of spare parts and the complexity of these models, a thorough independent technical inspection before purchase is an absolute necessity.

Aston Martin DBX

The Aston Martin DBX is a technologically very complex car, where specific faults appear mainly associated with on-board electronics and minor teething troubles of the first model years (2020–2022).

• Electronics and battery: The DBX's electronic architecture is extremely sensitive to voltage drops. A weaker battery often causes random and false error messages from assistance systems or stabilization, which usually disappear on their own after recharging or restarting the car. It is recommended to use a trickle charger regularly.
• Infotainment and connectivity: The multimedia system, based on an older generation of the Mercedes-Benz platform, is among the most frequently criticized elements. Customers report slow responses, screen freezing, and frequent dropouts of wireless phone connections. Most of these issues are resolved by additional software updates at an authorized service center.
• Motor and drivetrain: The 4.0 V8 engine itself, sourced from AMG, is mechanically reliable. However, early units experienced problems with ignition coils causing irregular running. There are also known recalls for loose fasteners on the front drive shaft and differential, or faulty oil cooler hoses that could burst and cause loss of lubrication pressure.
• Chassis: The air suspension is mechanically very robust, but occasional software errors occur that can preventatively limit the car's speed to 80 km/h. More recently, a recall was addressed for models from 2021 and newer due to the use of an incorrect bolt on the rear lower arm, which could lead to suspension damage.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan benefits from the proven engineering base of the parent BMW Group (using a modified platform from the X7 and a V12 engine), however, its enormous weight and extremely rich equipment take their toll on consumables and air suspension.

• Chassis and brake wear: A curb weight exceeding 2.6 tons means that brake pads, massive brake discs, and chassis components (e.g., bushings) are subject to above-average rapid wear, especially if the car is frequently used in typical city traffic.
• Air suspension: The complex air suspension system, which ensures the legendary "magic carpet ride," can suffer from air leaks from the struts or compressor failures as mileage and age increase. Potential repairs and replacements of the air bags at Rolls-Royce logically reach astronomical sums.
• Engine (6.75 V12 N74): The twelve-cylinder is majestic and very durable with proper maintenance. However, a specific and relatively expensive problem in older and higher-mileage units is the failure of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), manifested by longer starting times or power fluctuations. Also, watch out for hardened valve stem seals or oil leaks around the valve cover gasket, which is a known, though rarer in lower-mileage cars, weakness of engines in this family.
• Interior and electronics: Owners may occasionally encounter minor software glitches in the iDrive system, such as delayed responses or freezing of the reversing camera display, which are resolved by software updates. The Cullinan also faced a curious recall due to loose bolts on the rear seat belts and seats in models from 2020, where there was a risk that they might not properly restrain rear passengers in an accident.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Here are a few specific points to focus on for these two models. Even though both cars represent the absolute pinnacle of British luxury and performance, specific ailments can start to appear in roughly four-year-old used cars. A detailed physical car inspection on a lift combined with diagnostics will help reveal these hidden problems. For maximum peace of mind when buying such expensive cars, we always recommend using the independent and certified CarAudit service.

When choosing an Aston Martin DBX:

• Infotainment and camera system behavior: The outdated system sourced from Mercedes-Benz (though not the latest version) can freeze in early model years. During the test drive, check the response speed, phone connection stability, and especially the smooth activation of the parking camera when shifting into reverse.
• Electrical system and battery condition: The DBX occasionally suffers from parasitic power draws and prematurely discharged batteries, leading to a buildup of error messages. Also, check the recall history – models from 2021 to 2024 had a widespread issue with loose cables in the battery fuse box.
• Smoothness of the 9-speed automatic transmission: During alternating acceleration and braking, observe how readily the car downshifts. Any hesitation, hard shifts, or slipping can indicate neglected transmission oil changes or beginning issues with the torque converter.
• Tailgate (trunk lid) functionality: On older used cars (especially 2020 and 2021), owners faced faulty tailgate control modules. Try opening and closing the trunk several times in a row using the key button and directly on the car to verify the mechanism doesn't jam.
• False air suspension errors: The suspension itself and the air springs are mechanically durable, but the software often generates error messages (e.g., a prompt not to exceed 80 km/h). During the drive, stop the car and manually raise and lower it in all available ride height modes to rule out compressor damage.

When choosing a Rolls-Royce Cullinan:

• Air suspension and system tightness: The legendary "magic carpet ride" depends on 100% functionality of the air struts. In 4 to 5-year-old cars, the air springs can perish, or the compressor can fail. Check if the car sits unevenly when parked and doesn't sway unusually during the drive. Here, an independent technical inspection of the car is absolutely crucial.
• Oil leaks in the V12 and injectors: The 6.75-liter V12 engine is robustly built, but on aging units, oil leaks can appear near the rear crankshaft seal or the turbocharger lubrication. Faulty or carbon-clogged injectors manifest as slight RPM fluctuations and hesitant acceleration at idle or when cold.
• 12V battery condition and parasitic draws: The Cullinan has an enormous amount of onboard electronics that drain the car even when parked. If the previous owner didn't use a trickle charger, the battery will be degraded. This manifests as random "gremlins," display failures, or assistance sensor dropouts.
• Motorized luxury interior elements: In the rear of this SUV, it's all about the details. Thoroughly check every electronic feature: from self-closing doors to power picnic tables and rear infotainment, to the fold-out cooling box. Motors weaken over time, and repairing even the smallest sticking compartment costs astronomical sums.
• Brake and chassis component wear: The Cullinan weighs nearly 2.7 tons, placing huge demands on brake components. If the pedal feels "spongy" during harder braking, you hear squealing, or feel vibrations in the steering wheel, the car will soon need an extremely expensive complete replacement of discs and pads.

Sources: ADAC, aktualne.cz, auto.cz, autorevue.cz, autoweb.cz, cistadoprava.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.