Aston Martin Lagonda – The Legend Returns

Aston Martin, a brand that one would normally not associate with big heavy SUVs, will do exactly that: produce a big heavy luxury 4WD in its quest to increase market share.

However, to distinguish the new model from Aston’s range of sports cars and its Cygnet city car, the car maker is resurrecting the Lagonda badge that is 102 years old.

The Lagonda SUV concept debuted at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show to acclaimed reception. Since then, the British based company has been working hard to turn the concept into reality and has finally confirmed the car’s production.

As Aston’s expertise is in building sports cars, it has decided to collaborate with a major manufacturer to supply a platform and a new range of engines for the Lagondas.

The 2009 concept was based on the Mercedes GL architecture; therefore it made sense to partner with the German firm in building its first SUV. As part of the deal, Aston will build a new range of Maybach models at its Gaydon plant in Warks in return.

Aston Martin is aiming to achieve what the Porsche Cayenne has accomplished for Porsche, to open the door to Aston ownership at a far more affordable entry price. It will also enable the company to compete in a market segment currently dominated by the Cayenne, top-spec Range Rovers and soon, a luxury crossover from Bentley.

Aston Martin currently sells cars in 35 countries, and company boss Dr Ulrich Bez said: “I believe we can be present in more than 100 countries in the world.” A Lagonda SUV priced around A$200,000, would be perfectly placed to take advantage of the booming markets of China, Russia and India.

Aston added that the new SUV is unlikely to be seen until 2012 at the earliest. A four door, four-seat Lagonda saloon will follow in around 2014. This could be based on the next S-Class’s platform, subject to a deal with Mercedes.

Source: Autoexpress

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