The brand said it expected to deliver its first steps towards improved profitability this year as it undergoes a transformation plan Aston Martin reported on Thursday a 104 percent increase in third-quarter sales to dealers, which rose to 1,349 cars, as the luxury automaker"s first sport utility vehicle, the DBX, continued to boost demand this year. The brand, which posted a 97.9 million pound ($134 million) pre-tax loss between July and September, said it expected to deliver its first steps towards improved profitability this year as it undergoes a transformation plan.