Aston Martin's new release has echoes of famous 1930s model
Here's the biggest surprise of the Geneva motor show - an imposing concept that resurrects the legendary luxury marque, Lagonda.
Conceived by Aston Martin to enter completely new markets for the luxury firm, the all-wheel-drive four-seater Rolls-Royce rival is very much a concept at the moment, but the finished article could go on sale as soon as 2012 - and spawn a fresh range of Lagonda-badged models.
The car ushers in a new look for the badge, but at the same time harks back to famous Lagondas like the 1937 LG6, which was silhouetted behind the newcomer on Aston Martin's show stand.
It shares cues such as the vast chrome front grille, pillar box-style rear window and long bonnet.
At the back is a distinctive kicked-up C-pillar and raised boot, while the headlights and air intakes get LEDs with integrated indicators.
With its bluff front, stretched bonnet and vast tail, it's a bit like a Rolls-Royce Phantom - although the jacked-up stance gives it a different look entirely.
The reason for the raised ride height, 22-inch wheels and four-wheel-drive system is not so that owners can go off-road, though.
Aston Martin points out that the Lagonda is categorically not an SUV, and the extra ground clearance is designed to be of benefit in emerging markets where road networks are currently poor - such as Russia, India, China and South America.
The concept car sits on a platform from the Mercedes GL off-roader but it's been built and designed in Britain by a small Aston Martin team.
In future, there's likely to be plenty of cross-over with Mercedes, though there are rumours of a tie-up that will see Lagonda use the Maybach 62 platform.
For now, the concept uses Aston Martin's 6-litre V12 engine hooked up to a six-speed automatic gearbox, but in future it will feature hybrid, biofuel and diesel powerplants - and it's these that could be developed in conjunction with Mercedes.
Inside there's ample seating for four, with sumptuous leather upholstery, fake fur around the headrests and a chunky, muscular feel to the controls.
The driving experience will be very different to an Aston Martin.
"Lagonda will have separate character," a spokesman said. "It will offer driver enjoyment but the idea is to put all four occupants in a state of luxury. It will be very comfortable indeed."
