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Aston Martin DB11 gets back to work at the Nurburgring

The Aston Martin DB9 has been around for over a decade now. Classic though its styling may be, that means it's ripe for replacement. Fortunately that's just what Aston Martin is working on, as you can see from these latest spy shots. Snapped undergoing development at the notoriously grueling Nurburgring, this prototype appears to have ditched the camouflage worn by the last one we saw in favor of the black body cladding from our earlier shots. That makes it tough to tell anything about its final design, but if precedent proves anything, it ought to be pretty striking once the production bodywork is put in place. The new DB11 (or whatever it's ultimately called) is being built on a new platform that's set to replace Aston's long-serving VH architecture that has adapted over the years but essentially dates back to the V12 Vanquish that debuted way back in 2011. Aston is expected to keep using its even longer-serving 6.0-liter V12 engine on certain models, but the new DB11 is more likely to get the new twin-turbo V8 being built for it by Mercedes-AMG.

Aston Martin DB9 successor makes one sexy mule

It's been a dozen years since Aston Martin first introduced the DB9 to the world, and while it has undergone numerous revisions and updates over the course of its lifetime, twelve years is a long time. Fortunately the British automaker is preparing to launch a new version, and that's just what our shooters in Eiffel have spotted running around the Nurburgring. Now it's hard to tell much from these spy shots, because the prototype they depict is mostly wearing the bodywork of the existing DB9. So all the interesting stuff is happening beneath the skin. But it does appear that the front end is wider, giving the next-generation model – whatever it will ultimately be called – a wider front track and more room in the engine bay. Those who've been following the news will know that Aston has signed a deal with Mercedes-AMG that will see the German automaker's performance division supply it with a new powerplant, but that's not expected to be ready for the DB9 successor's arrival. Look for it to pop up in production guise sometime next year, then, with an evolution of Gaydon's long-serving and ubiquitous 6.0-liter V12 engine that's already developing 592 horsepower in the Vantage GT3... excuse us, Porsche: "GT12." Related Video:

Aston Martin On Ice reminds us how fun winter can be

Things are finally starting to thaw near the Autoblog headquarters in Detroit, with spring just around the corner. We're already celebrating some slightly warmer temperatures, and looking ahead to sunny days and top-down drives. But winter isn't all bad – especially for car enthusiasts. Yes, with the right formula of fresh powder and winter tires, the cold season can prove hilariously fun for folks who love to drive. In that spirit, Aston Martin hosted its second-annual (in the US, anyway) 'On Ice' program in Colorado, where owners were given the opportunity to slide around in the British automaker's wares, hanging the tails out and generally (we assume) having a blast. Rather than bore you with more details, we'll let you see all the fun that was had, in the gallery above. It almost makes us wish winter would stick around a little longer. Almost. For more information about the Aston Martin On Ice program, check out the (old) press blast below. Related Video: Aston Martin are to host their second annual ice driving program in Colorado in February, offering thrill seekers a unique driving experience in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Taking place among the dramatic Crested Butte mountain range, the 'On Ice' program gives Aston Martin enthusiasts the chance to hone their driving skills in a spectacular setting over three days. The iconic British car makers have custom built an ice track for the program, comprising a braking/cornering exercise loop, slalom, skid pad and full circuit. Under expert tuition, participants are guided through the facility, before embarking upon a series of braking, cornering and handling exercises and then putting their skills to the test on a mile-long frozen road course. Luxurious accommodations will be provided for all three days at the exclusive boutique hotel properties of the Eleven Group that are nestled in the mountains. Julian Jenkins, President of Aston Martin The Americas, said: "After this hugely successful first year we expect the On Ice program to become a mainstay of our customer experience offerings here in North America. "The ability to experience a range of our cars in a unique and controlled environment resonates with Aston Martin customers and enthusiasts who are united by a shared passion for driving." As well as the 'On Ice' driving program, guests will also have the chance to indulge in other activities including skiing and exploring the back country on a fleet of snow mobiles.