
Several high-performance supercars and ultra-luxury vehicles still feature a V12 engine, though they are becoming increasingly rare. The most prominent current production models are the 12Cilindri, the Lamborghini Revuelto, and flagship offerings from Aston Martin and Rolls-Royce. A V12 engine, with its twelve cylinders arranged in a 'V' formation, is renowned for its exceptionally smooth power delivery and monumental power output, rather than just raw acceleration figures. These engines are typically reserved for the pinnacle of a brand's lineup, representing the ultimate expression of performance and luxury.
The appeal of a V12 lies in its unique character. Unlike turbocharged V8s, a naturally aspirated V12 provides instantaneous throttle response and builds power in a linear, relentless manner. The sound is also a key differentiator—a high-revving symphony that is both powerful and refined. However, this engineering masterpiece comes with significant costs, including high fuel consumption, hefty maintenance bills, and a steep purchase price.
For those seeking this specific powertrain, your choices are now almost exclusively in the supercar and hyper-luxury segments. Here are some notable examples, including recent production models:
| Brand & Model | Engine Displacement | Horsepower (Approx.) | Vehicle Type | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferrari 12Cilindri | 6.5L | 830 hp | Supercar | Front-engined, naturally aspirated |
| Lamborghini Revuelto | 6.5L | 814 hp | Supercar/Hypercar | Plug-in hybrid, all-wheel drive |
| Aston Martin DBS | 5.2L | 715 hp | Grand Tourer | Twin-turbocharged |
| Rolls-Royce Phantom | 6.75L | 563 hp | Ultra-Luxury Sedan | Focus on silent, effortless power |
| Rolls-Royce Cullinan | 6.75L | 563 hp | Ultra-Luxury SUV | Same powertrain as the Phantom |
| Ferrari 812 Superfast | 6.5L | 789 hp | Supercar | Previously the flagship front-engined model |
| Lamborghini Aventador | 6.5L | 770 hp | Supercar | Recently replaced by the Revuelto |
| BMW M760i | 6.6L | 601 hp | Performance Sedan | Discontinued but available on used market |
| Mercedes-Maybach S680 | 6.0L | 603 hp | Luxury Sedan | Twin-turbocharged, extreme comfort |
Ultimately, owning a V12 is about the experience. It's a celebration of internal combustion engineering at its most ambitious, offering a level of sophistication and exhilaration that is increasingly uncommon in today's world of hybridization and electrification.

Honestly, if you're looking for a new V12, you're basically shopping for a unicorn. Your best bets are , Lamborghini, and Rolls-Royce. These aren't just fast cars; they're statement pieces. The sound alone is worth it—smooth, screaming, and unlike anything else. Be ready for the price tag, though. It's not just the cost to buy it; filling up the tank and servicing it is a whole other level of expensive.

From an standpoint, the V12 is prized for its perfect inherent balance. This eliminates the need for balance shafts, allowing for smoother operation and the ability to rev exceptionally high. Current applications are primarily in high-output hybrid systems, like the Lamborghini Revuelto, where the V12 provides a brutal, linear power band that complements the instant torque of electric motors. It’s the pinnacle of combustion engine technology before a full transition to electrification.

For me, it’s all about the feel. I’ve driven turbo V8s that are brutally quick, but a good V12 is just… different. There’s no lag, no vibration—just this incredibly smooth surge of power that keeps pulling no matter how fast you’re going. It’s a more refined, almost aristocratic kind of power. You find them in the most comfortable cars too, like a , where the goal is silence and effortlessness, not just track times.

It's fascinating to see the list shrink. A decade ago, you had V12s in more accessible sedans from and Mercedes. Today, it's a hallmark of exclusivity. Brands like Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin use it to signify their top-tier models. The conversation is now shifting to how these engines are being adapted, often paired with hybrid systems to meet emissions standards while preserving their character. This makes modern V12s like the Revuelto technologically fascinating, representing a bridge between eras.


