Aston Martin to launch super Lagonda sedan

Aston Martin has resurrected its Lagonda nameplate for a small production run of limited-edition super sedans. Lagonda is a luxury car marquee, wholly-owned by Aston Martin. The new Aston Martin Lagonda is set to arrive in the international market, in 2015.

Styling cues come from the original Lagonda, which was designed by William Towns and launched in 1976. Underpinning the new car is the company's VH architecture that is used throughout its current line-up. Official technical details are yet to be released, but it is understood that the production models will use the 5.9-litre V12 from the Rapide S. In the Rapide, the naturally aspirated V12 produces 550bhp and 63.2kgm, granting a 0-100kph time of less than 5.0sec and a top speed of 306kph. Power will be sent to the rear wheels, most likely via a six-speed ZF automatic transmission.

Sales are by invitation only and official pricing has not been released, with Aston Martin simply stating that "it will be commensurate with the car's exclusivity, quality and luxurious nature". The Lagonda will also be offered only in the Middle East due to a "specific market demand".

Aston Martin Design Director Marek Reichman said: "The new model, like its exclusive siblings the One-77 and V12 Zagato, has been created as a piece of exceptional automotive art. It has been designed and developed entirely in keeping with the spirit and ethos of previous Lagonda super saloons – notably the William Towns Lagonda – and as a tribute to this car it proudly bears the Lagonda nameplate."

This all-new model has recently been brought back into the limelight following Aston's ongoing discussions and parts sharing deal with Mercedes-Benz.

Earlier in the year, Aston Martin had trademarked an updated version of the Lagonda emblem, hinting at the imminent return of the nameplate. The company says that the launch of the new sedan revives the Lagonda ethos of "the finest of fast cars".