The exterior, (re)styled by Aston’s Graydon design team, now displays the typical Aston grille, side engine vents and even miniatural V12 Vantage like air scoops on the hood. These are mixed with the IQ’s original headlamps at the front and with some unconventional, bespoke led taillights.
The interior uses the IQ’s original instrument panel and overall architecture, now belonging to a completely different league thanks to its new trimming and colors.
“The Cygnet concept represents a creative, environmentally conscious solution, being small, yet with presence – and highly fuel efficient, now combined with the prestige of Aston Martin’s luxury brand ownership,” company officials stated in today’s brief press release.
Toyota IQ’s underpinnings will be maintained, with a larger engine from the company’s portfolio expected to bring at least decent dynamics.
Japan-assembled IQs will be brought to Aston’s Graydon plant in UK, in order to be converted into Cygnets, thus more than doubling their retail price. Aston has set an initial target between 1000 and 2000 cars a year, which are to be sold exclusively through the company’s dealers.
The first deliveries are expected in late 2010 and are initially only destined to the UK and European markets. Whatismore, for a limited period after the car goes on sale, it will only be available for existing Aston customers.
Officially the study is described as “a new luxury commuter concept car”. We’re not so sure of the car’s purpose but we like the idea of such an automotive gemstone. We’re looking forward to seeing the Cygnet encased in an engagement ring.
Google News