Aston Martin Lagonda sedan takes shape

Aston Martin is readying a new super-sedan which is expected to kick-start the revival of the iconic Lagonda name.

The car appears to be based on the same VH underpinnings of all series-production Astons, but features a longer wheelbase than the 2989mm stance of the Aston Martin Rapide S four-door sportscar.

The new car – worked upon by Aston Martin's customisation service Q – is powered by the Rapide S’s all-alloy 5935cc V12 engine, a unit that produces maximum outputs of 550bhp in the Rapide S.

The styling is heavily influenced by the William Towns-designed 1976 Lagonda, fuelling speculation that this new car will carry the Lagonda name.

The Aston Martin Lagonda was produced between 1976 and 1990, after which the name was mothballed. Last year, Aston Martin chiefs spoke of plans to resurrect the Lagonda badge on a full-size SUV, but that model hasn’t yet been confirmed for production.

However, our sister-magazine Autocar UK understands that Aston Martin has recently trademarked an updated version of the Lagonda emblem. Attaching it to a low-numbers project such as this super-sedan could prove a suitable way to reintroduce the name.

An Aston Martin spokesman said: “I can confirm that this is one of a bespoke series of coach-built cars. As we’ve said before, much is possible through Q by Aston Martin – including bespoke offerings, just like CC100 – and this is another example. We cannot say any more at this time.”

The car, which is in an advanced prototype state, is expected to be officially revealed by Aston Martin in the final quarter of this year. A limited-numbers production run will follow next year.