Lagonda Working On Mercedes S-Class-Based Sedan?
Lagonda SUV Concept by Aston Martin
The Lagonda Concept unveiled earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show was an almost unmitigated failure. Odd proportions, widespread public rejection and a host of excuses marked its birth and untimely death. But that hasn’t deterred Aston Martin from reviving the Lagonda brand, and now new reports of a Mercedes-Benz S-Class-based sedan are emerging.
The fact that Mercedes and Aston already partnered once on the Lagonda brand and failed – the Lagonda SUV Concept was based on the Mercedes GL-Class – isn’t standing in the way of the future collaboration either, it seems.
Expected to arrive in 2012, the Lagonda sedan is expected to feature a hybrid powertrain and W222 platform underpinnings, much like the next Maybach super-sedan. Borrowing the S-Class for the basis of the Lagonda makes a lot of sense, both from an economic perspective, and considering the goals for the Lagonda project.
High-tech features like a forward-scanning predictive suspension system and next-gen hybrid drive means the Lagonda will be one of the most advanced cars on the road. Building on the S-Class’s proven track record as an emerging-technology base should make that rather tall order a bit easier to fill.
The hybrid system is likely to be based on the system recently unveiled in the S400 Hybrid, itself a result of the Two-Mode hybrid joint project with Chrysler, General Motors and BMW. Normal combustion engine power will probably come from a Mercedes-sourced twin-turbo 6.0-liter V-12.
Design work and exterior appearance will be left entirely to Aston’s engineers, according to the report. As history has borne out, that may be a risky proposition, though they’re sure to have learned a lesson or two since March.
Source:carsmart101.com
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