Report : Aston Martin Cygent to start production in 2010, with prices start at $32,000

The global economic and enviromental down-turn has put a big dent on a sports car makers. This is to be seen in many automakers like Porsche, and Aston Martin. As we saw earlier this year, Aston have teased their new city car - Cygent Concept, which is basically a re-badged Toyota iQ. Well, the falling British company says that this concept has plans to go into real production!

Automotive News has reports that Aston Martin have already started producing test-mules of the tiny Cygent city car, and it will be on sale next year. Aston Martin says that their Cygent “will offer customers a distinctive, intelligent and exclusive solution for urban travel in style and luxury” and is “based on the critically acclaimed Toyota iQ with a Euro NCAP 5-star safety package.”

Toyota will be shipping assembled iQ units to Aston’s Gaydon, England plant. Aston will then upgrade the interior and exterior while leaving the mechanicals alone (1.3L, 100 hp, and FWD). Aston Martin say that the Cygent will be sold to customers who already own Aston, but want a practical everyday commuter. Which is why the Cygent will cost around $32,000, or double the price of a Toyota iQ.

Source : [Automotive News]

Others @ Frankfurt

After we featured the biggies from Frankfurt like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, and Volkswagen, it's time to see what some other automakers showed at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Here goes:

- 2010 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde 1.4 MultiAir: This is not the production MiTo GTA hot-hatch, but it's actually close. This Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde 1.4 MultiAir may look like any MiTo, but Alfa say this will set the foundation of small turbocharged compact hatchbacks. So, what this is MiTo good at? The Quadrifoglio Verde basically gives the MiTo a sporty outfit, which is a pack of 17" satin titanium-finished wheels, darkened headlights and mirrors, sporty interior with bucket seats, and Alfa's latest DNA suspension controls. On the technical side, the 1.4 MultiAir engine, which in essence, is a turbocharged 1.4L 4-cylinder engine, that makes 170 hp. Alfa Romeo showrooms will be recieving MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde editions soon.
- 2010 Aston Martin Rapide: It's finally, in its final production form - the 2010 Aston Martin Rapide. As Aston have promised, the 2010 Rapide looks like the concept we saw back in 2006. So, is still looks like a 4-door DB9, which is actually a good thing. This Rapide is not just a looker though; it's a full-on sports-sedan. Therefore, it packs a hand-built 470 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque 6.0L V12, and it has a 750 liters of luggage space when the seats are folded. While the driver has a 6-speed Touchtronic transmission tp play with, the rear-seats are offered with indiviual tv screens. In essence, this is a pure Aston supercar, that will easily handle a family roadtrip; just like that new Porsche Panamera. First deliveries of the Aston Martin Rapide will commence early in 2010 and will be available globally through Aston Martin's 125 dealership network.
- 2011 Bentley Mulsanne: It's the all-new Grand Bentley, or at least that's what we knew it. Among Bentley's exciting line-up, where does this Mulsanne fit? Well, for starters, the 2011 Bentley Mulsanne is the replacement for the beloved Arnage. What's more, Bentley say that this Mulsanne is a classic revival of the 1930 Bentley 8-Liter. Most notable design cue are the quad LED headlights that echo the classic 8-Liter, and the whole style showcases some Bentley heritage, with newly modern design. Same theory goes to the interior as well. Because, where the dashboard features the classic glossy wood, it also has a 14-speaker audio system, and other high-tech luxury equipment. Under that long hood, sits the grand-old 6¾L V8 engine, which was originally used in the 1968 Rolls Royce Phantom. However, with new modern twin-turbochargers, and a new ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, the Mulsanne gets 505 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque; and all that power is going to the rear-wheels only. The 2011 Bentley Mulsanne will hit showrooms in mid 2010, with prices start at around $300,000.
-2010 Brabus E V12: For anyone who haven't heard of Brabus, they are those crazy German tuning company, specialized for cranking-up Mercedes', and can tune-up a C-Class up to 730 hp! This time around, Brabus got their hands on the new E-Class, and look what they have done to it: full aerodynamic bodykit, with a rear-spoiler and Speed Spads rocker panel for the rear-wheels, matte-black paint on every exterior panel, lowered suspension, and oh, a twin-turbocharged 6.3L V12. Numbers don't get better than this - 800 hp and 1,047 lb-ft of torque; with an electronic torque-limiter, there's still 811 lb-ft of torque to play with. Acceleration too, is way beyond any production super sedan, and even hyper-cars! 60 mph comes in 3.7 seconds, 125 mph in just 9.9 seconds, and 186 mph comes at 23.9 seconds. Top speed? That's 230 mph! However, Brabus say that for tire safety reasons, it's better not to go any faster than 217 mph on public roads. So yes, Brabus are some crazy German auto-tuning company! It's probably you'll never see an E V12, simply because it will be limited to only 10 units, with pricing going for 498,000 Euros.
- 2009 Bugatti Galibier Concept: We saw the teasers, heard the rumors, and even got some speculation renders; but non prepare this: the highly-anticipated 4-door Bugatti Galibier Concept. Though it says that it's a concept, the production version is come very soon, with the same platform, and same engine. Key features to the design, are the chrome door and front-fender panels, and 8 exhaust pipes out back. Inside, it offers 4 seats, with total luxury, wood-inserted dashboard and center console, and a LCD navigation system. The platform features all-wheel-drive, specially developed ceramic brakes and a new suspension design enable the agile, always-sure handling of a saloon of this size. The engine originally comes from the legendary Veryon, so an 8.0L W16 engine; but, instead of turbocharging, the Galibier Concept gets a two stage supercharger. No officials numbers yet, but Bugatti said that this will be the fastest production 4-door sedan in the automotive world, with a top sped of 217 mph.
- 2011 Citroen DS3: Joining the retro compact superminis from the Mini Cooper, and Fiat 500, is this DS3. It channels some of the iconic cues of the '60s DS, and also offers a wide range of paint colors. DS3 is offered with diesel and petrol engines, but top-spec DS3 comes with a turbocharged 1.6L in-line 4-cylinder, with 150 hp. The new DS3 will go on sale in most European markets by early 2010.
- 2009 Citroen REVOLTe Concept: This is another Citroen that also aims on retro styling, and modern technology. This REVOLTe Concept is heavily inspired by the iconic 1979 Citroen 2CV, which is sort of the first real eco-friendly car. So coming to the exterior design, the whole shape is reminiscent to the 2CV, but in a very modern design (sort of like the new Dodge Challenger). Like the original 2CV, the REVOLTe Concept is being showcased as a pure enviromental compact-city car. So it's got a new plug-in hybrid drivetrain, which basically can be setup on normal hybrid-drive, or run in all-electric ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode. No info yet on whether the REVOLTe Concept comes to production, but we might see something close in the near future.
- 2011 Ferrari 458 Italia: This will be the replacement to thebeloved F430. It's got an all-new design, a new platform, a new engine, and a new transmission. Powered by a new direct-injection 4.5L V8, which produces 570 hp and 398 lb-ft, the 458 Italia will hit 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, and will go towards 202 mph. The new 458 is also supported with a new 7-speed dual-clutch F1 transmission. Ferrari F1 also got a new setup for the E-Diff, F1-Trac and ABS systems. Coming to your near-by Ferrari dealer in 2010, as 2011 model year.
- 2009 Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari: This Fiat 500 may seem like a compact city car, but it's in fact a super hatchback. This Ferrari-inspired Fiat 500 Abarth gets Ferrari kit inside and out, like 4 exhaust pipes with Ferrari Scuderia strips, and a Ferrari F1-style racing seats with a paddle-shift transmission. Even power is uprated from the 500 Abarth; so now, the turbocharged 1.4L in-line 4-cylinder makes 180 hp. 60 mph should come in less than 7 seconds. For anyone who wants a cheap feel of a Ferrari, this 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari will be in showrooms soon.
- 2011 Ford C-MAX: While this may look like somewhat near to the Ford iosis MAX Concept car unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, it is in-fact, the production version and new Ford C-Max. This 7-seater minivan is actually based on a stretched wheel-base of the new Ford Focus. Although this C-Max offers hallmarks of comfort, space, and practicality, it still looks very sporty. In fact, the sporty-looks are supported with an all-new 1.6L in-line 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine. With turbocharging and direct-injection, Ford claim that this 1.6 will offer V6 power, with 4-cylinder economy. The Ford C-MAX will be launched in the second half of 2010, and will be the first C-Max to be sold worldwide.
- 2011 Hyundai ix35: While this ix35 is actually the replacement of the old Tucson, it's an entirly new vehicle. Compared to its predecessor, the new ix35 looks much more upscale inside-and-out. Hyundai are also trying to make some sort of trademark design; therefore, the ix35 looks like the Veracruz's smaller brother. Concerning powertrains, ix35 comes in a 166 hp 2.0L engine, or a turbocharged 1.6L in-line 4 with 170 hp. Standard equipment start with a 6-speed automatic transmission, Electronic Stability Program, Downhill Brake Control, and Hill-Start Assist Control. Hyundai revealed that the 2011 ix35 will be manufactured at Kia's Zilina plant in Slovakia. 2011 Hyundai ix35 will be available in dealerships beginning of 2010, with prices start at around $22,000.
- 2009 Hyundai ix-Metro Concept: Hyundai's new Global Design Team have created a concept study, which like all new concepts, is a showcase to enviromently-friendly compacts. Hyundai say that the ix-Metro offers all the practicality, robustness and versatility of a CUV in a stylishly sophisticated package. However, with a 1.0L 3-cylinder engine, this gets outstanding fuel-mileage, and yet the whole cars weighs 950 kilograms, so it can be nippy as well. To benefit most space out of this small comapct, the GDT have adopted a conventional 'suicide door' configuration. ix-Metro is just a concept study, and it's to be kept as a study; so, no production here.
- 2010 Kia Sorento: This is how Kia is tackling with modern 7-seater SUVs, the new 2010 Sorento. In the looks department, Kia has went for a simple conservative look for the Sorento. So there aren't any fens or bulges sticking out of the body, which is a good thing. Kia has also went great lengths into making this new Sorento into a much better cross-over than the out-going Sorento. So now, the new Sorento is actually based on the highly-priased Hyundai Veracruz. Getting to the powertrain, engines vary from 194 hp 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, to a high-output 3.5L V6 with 277 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. The Sorento is already on sale in its home market, and Kia plans to sell 140,000 units from 2010.
- 2010 Lamborghini Reventon Roadster: It's a convertible Lamborghini Reventon. The Reventon coupe is considered as one of the most expensive and exclusive supercars. Well, the Reventon Roadster is even more expensive, and more exclusive. The Reventon Roadster keeps the same looks as the coupe variant, and which also keeps the same structural rigidity and all-wheel-drive system. Reventon Roadster is actually powered by a 670 hp 6.5L V12 out of the 2010 Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce. 60 mph comes up after 3.4 seconds, and top speed is 205 mph. Each Lamborghini Reventón Roadster will be sold for 1.1 Million Euro (without taxes), which less than 20 units will be made, and sold for "Lamborghini friends and collectors." Deliveries will begin October 2009.
- 2009 Lexus LF-Ch Concept: Lexus is trying to aim their new products to younger-aged buyers, to improve badge-image. So while this may be a concept for now, it will come to production plant in a few years. This Lexus LF-Ch Concept hatchback is a showcase, to what Lexus is planning to make a rival to the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3. The Lexus LF-Ch Concept features a full-on hybrid system, so that it can run on fully EV mode for some time. Despite being a hybrid, Lexus claim that the LF-Ch Concept has a sporty driving characteristics. To determine on whether the LF-Ch would go into production, Lexus is running online serveys, to see if people are having a good impression on this the new Lexus hatch.
- 2011 Maserati GranCabrio: The GranCabrio is the convertible GranTurismo. So it means that it shares the same looks as the GranTurismo, and also the same drive-train. The tractable roof is cloth, and will operate within few seconds. GranCabrio is a little heavier than GranTurismo, because Maserati had to had strengthen beams. However, GranCabrio is only offered with a 440 hp 4.7L V8, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. GranCabrio will hit 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, and crack 184 mph. All that, plus, the beautiful Italian V8 exhaust note is directly channeled through the cabin. Maserati also claims that this is the largest 4-seater production convertible.
- 2009 Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept: This is a concept study, that Mazda say will consider in the future if fans and customers are interested. This MX-5 Superlight Concept is a speedster MX-5 Miata. So no roof, no windshield, no driver aids; plus, a total curb weight of only 940 kilograms. The MX-5 Superlight Concept tries to import those old days of the '40s - '50s Formula-One cars, but with hints of newly modern MX-5 cues. Power comes from a 1.8L in-line 4-cylinder, with 126 hp. While that might not sound as much, this is just a pure racing automobile. So it may not be super fast, but it's certainly a fun job.
2011 McLaren MP4-12C: This is a moment we have all been waiting for; an all-new McLaren. However, even McLaren say, that this MP4-12C won't be as legandary as their 240 mph F1, and won't be even a successor. The MP4-12C is in fact, a daily-driver McLaren supercar. So McLaren are getting in the mix, with a modest-looking British supercar. The interior too, is very tpical with quite supercar material, like carbon-fiber on the door instruments, center console, and dashboard, with a navigation system. Power comes with a McLaren-built twin-turbocharged 3.8L V8, packing 600 hp and driven through the rear-wheels via a McLaren 7-speed Seamless Shift dual clutch transmission (SSG). The brakes and chassis on the MP4-12C have been designed with the McLaren Formula-One team, and even shares some parts with the Formula-One car. Nonetheless, to make this McLaren a drivable supercar, the new engine is consided the most fuel-efficient engine ever. As it produces 600 hp, and actually has the lowest CO2 emission among competitors. Competition comes from Ferrari 458 Italia and Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4.
- 2009 Mini Coupe Concept: While Mini say that this a concept, this Mini Coupe Concept is actually a production-capable car, and will see production next year. The Mini Coupe Concept is loosly based on a Mini Cooper hatchback, but in a new roof style, and the emulation of the rear-seats, to make this Coupe Concept a 2-seater. Power comes from a turbocharged 1.6L engine, making 211 hp, through a 6-speed manual and a front-wheel-drive chassis. The Mini Coupe is set to be a rival to the base Audi TT.
- 2011 Peugeot RCZ: When Peugeot showcased the 308 RC Z Concept back in 2007, it wasn't taken so seriously. However now, it's here, in-full production, and it doesn't seem altered from that concept we all liked. The new RCZ coupe lives-up strong as a coupe, as it features aggressive face, wide wheel-arches, and the famous bubble roof. Peugeot mostly used the word "passion" when designing this car from inside-and-out. Even the interior looks so supercar-like, as the feeling inside is tight and only has 2-seats. However, all these impressions are not so with the drivetrain. Peugeot say that while this looks wonderful, it shouldn't be spoiled with a dangerous engine or a hard-edge driving characteristics. So, the RCZ is actually powered by a turbocharged 1.6L engine, making 200 hp, and transferring power to an all-wheel-drive chassis. Therefore, it can be easily be driven like any car on the road, and yet look one of the most exclusive. RCZ should be in European markets in mid 2010.
- 2009 Renault Fluence ZE Concept: This is not is just any Renault Fluence. This Fluence may have the concept name for now, but it is expected that the new ZE Concept will follow the Fluence's range of petrol and diesel engines soon. So what is the ZE really? You guessed it; an all-electric drive version! Renault chose the Fluence platform, as it's their benchmark mid-size sedan. Therefore, it gets all the family business done, and yet features the electric moveability. For the electric-drive, Renault have used the commonly-used Lithium-ion battery-pack, which produces 95 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque. Driving-range is allowed for 100 miles, and recharging takes roughly 4 hours, but 80% of the battery is recharged within 20 minutes only. If Renault can really transfer this technology onto the real Fluennce, and with a resnoable price, we think it can be a hit.
- 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost: The production version of the Rolls-Royce 200EX, here it is, in a new Ghost name. This "baby-Rolls" is set to be more afforable than a Phantom, but yet offer pure Rolls-Royce elegance. While it's still looks like a Rolls, the Ghost is in fact, based on the new BMW 7-Series. So the Ghost might be even sporty! Nevertheless, it's powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.6L V12, developing 563 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. 0 to 60 mph comes in just 4.7 seconds with a top-speed electronically governed at 155 mph. The engine is mated to a 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. For those of you wondering, the Rolls-Royce Ghost manages an estimated fuel-economy of 17 mpg. Orders have already been taken, with prices range between 200,000 and 300,000 euros. Buyers will have a choice of 12 exterior colors, each of which can be contrasted by an available Silver Satin hood.

- 2010 Saab 9-5 Sedan: While this is an all-new Saab, it's in fact, the last Saab that will ever to come-out of General Motors, as Koenigsegg now has full control and ownership of Saab. The 9-5's exterior styling has been inspired by the Aero X concept car while the windshield and roof are reminiscent of the classic 900 model. Inside, Saab owners will feel right at home with the traditional, driver-focused cockpit that features an aircraft-inspired head-up information display. Beneath that body, lives GM's Epsilon II platform, that is shared with the Opel Insignia, and Buick LaCrosse, though the 9-5 actually has a longer wheel-base. Engines vary from diesel and petrol, though the 2010 9-5 is best with the new twin-turbocharged 2.8L V6 making 300 hp, mated to a 6-speed automatic and Haldex all-wheel drive system.

- 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: For all who live in the Middle East, know that there are two versions of the Toyota Land Cruiser; there's the original Land Cruiser, and the slightly-smaller Land Cruiser Prado. The Prado has remained since 2002 unchanged, so this 2010 is getting Toyota's latest make-up in design, and drive-trains. As usual, Toyota has gone for a massaging routine as opposed to brute force for the exterior. A reshaped front fascia and new tail-lights, make the Prado look very close to the Land Cruiser. This third-generation Toyota Prado will get Toyota's new engines. Base model should get a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine, and up-scale model will get a more powerful 4.0L V6. In the Middle East, the Pardo is already on sale, with prices going around 130,000 Saudi Riyals ($34,930 U.S.D).

That's all what Frankfurt has showed us. The Motor Show was great! We would like to appologize lastly for our somewhat late coverage; we had a lot of technical issues. Lastly, down below, is a full-on picture gallery of the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, provided by NetCarShow.com

Top Gear Season 13 Episode 7: Vauxhall VXR8 Bathurst and Maloo at the track; Jay Leno a Star In A Reasonably Priced Car; ending video with V12 Vantage

It's the last episode of this season at Top Gear. We know it went so quickly, but the last show, the boys at Top Gear prepared a great show for their fans. This week, Richard Hammond hits out the Top Gear test-track, with two Australian Holden imports to prove a point. Hammond thinks that true sportscars are not only cheaper and more practical, but also better to drive than the business-men sports-sedan. He got to get the 2009 Vauxhall VXR8 Bathurst and the 2009 Vauxhall HSV Maloo. One is a supercharged 560 hp super-sedan, and the other is the fastest pick-up truck ever produced, or what the Australians call it a Ute. The Stig also recorded laps for the two.

Refresher:

- 2009 Vauxhall VXR8 Bathurst: Powered by a supercharged 6.2L LS3 V8, producing 560 hp and 527 lb-ft of torque. Launch to 60 mph comes in 4.6 seconds, on-wards to a limited top-speed of 155 mph.

- 2009 Vauxhall HSV Maloo Ute: Powered by a naturally-aspirated 6.2L LS3 V8, packing 420 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 mph is delt in 5 seconds-flat, and top speed is limited to 155 mph. That makes it the world's fastest Ute (pick-up)

In the Star In A Reasonably Priced Car, Jeremy Clarkson usually interviews British celebrates, that mostly are only known in the UK. This episode though, the all-time-great talk-show host Jay Leno. Surprisingly, Leno is actually a #1 petrol-head, and he owns 150 cars in his garage. Leno also got to set a lap-time in the Chevrolet Lacetti. Want to know more? Just watch the embedded video below.



Finally, we come to the end of this week's Top Gear Episode feature. Top Gear ended this season with a 4-minute scenery-drive in the amazing and fabulous Aston Martin V12 Vantage, that actually felt sad to end-in the show. Personally, this was the best bit in this episode and it's really worth the watch.

Top Gear will be back for a 14th season in the winter.

New Reveal : 2009 Aston Martin Cygnet Concept

Finally, a new Aston Martin; Well, sort of! Aston Martin announced today an all-new concept called the Cygnet Concept. Aston Martin calls it “luxury commuter concept”. However, it is clearly shown that this is basically a re-badged Toyota IQ, with a DBS grill and hood nostrils.

The photographers at Aston Martin only gave us one photo to look at. To be brutally honest, we don't see the point of the Cygnet Concept. However, Aston says that “Cygnet will offer customers a distinctive, intelligent and exclusive solution for urban travel in style and luxury” and is “based on the critically acclaimed Toyota iQ with a Euro NCAP 5-star safety package.”

So, will this Aston be as fast as an Aston should be? Not exactly! As we say again, this is fully-based on the IQ. That means, the 100 hp 1.3L 3-cylinder is still sits under the Aston Martin Cygnet Concept's hood.

However, is Aston really going to produce the Cygnet? Aston Martin's CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez thinks so. “Much work is still required, but I am confident that this project could become reality in the not too distant future,” said Bez. “This concept - akin to an exclusive tender to a luxury yacht - will allow us to apply Aston Martin design language, craftsmanship and brand values to a completely new segment of the market.”

The Toyota iQ donor cars will be built in Japan and then shipped to Aston Martin's Gaydon factory in the UK where they will be "transformed" into Cygnets. The price, it's reported that the Cygents to be priced around $30,000. Which is pretty deeply expensive, since the IQ doesn't cost more than $15,000. At least this Aston would be for the public, much unlike the $2 million One-77.

And you thought GM's badge engineering was ridiculous...

Source : [Aston Martin]

Aston Martin Shows Off Finished One-77 at Concorso D'Eleganza

Aston Martin whisked the covers off the finally-final version of its most-exclusive One-77 V12 supercar at this weekend's Concorso d'Eleganza at Villa d'Este on the shores of Lake Como, Italy.
Which means the sunny Italy also showed the full coverage of the One-77's interior. And what an interior! No criticisms on the interior, it's just beautiful. It features a two-tone theme and is slathered in leather and carbon fiber. The buttons on the center console are specially distinctive from any other Aston Martin, where they feature a sharper sculpture. Chrome accents are also fitted on the air vents for the air conditioning. What best to know that this interior is the interaction between the driver and the 7.3L V12.
Aston Martin did reveal the exterior before, but now on stage we can see all sides to the One-77. Ofcourse, there's a lot of Aston Martin DNA to it, but with vents that cut the headlights, very wide wheel arches, and the huge Aston Martin trade mark grille; all make it the perfect Aston we dream about. In fact, One-77 got the award for best design at Concorso d'Eleganza .
The beautiful metal Shell of the One-77 that Aston Martin design is also very light as well. Standing-still, the One-77 only weighs 1.5 tonnes. That means the 7.3L V12 that is mated to a 6-speed semi-automatic through the rear-wheels, develops as Aston Martin say "over 700 hp"! Official acceleration numbers are 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, and will top well over 200 mph.
With only 77 units to be built, the One-77's price tag isn't for everyone. Infact, it's only for a very limited type of rich people, that all the 77 units are pre-sold. At $1.45 million, the One-77 is not only the most exclusive Aston yet, it is also the most expensive production car ever! So if anyone who's reading this and actually sees on on real life, please send us a picture, or maybe ten.

Source : [Aston Martin]

Video : Aston Martin Releases new Video of One-77 Supercar, interior spotted !

Aston Martin One-77, it's the flair between the beauty of Aston Martin design, smooth 700hp, and ultra-exclusivity with a ridiculous $1.2 million price tag. When it debuted at Geneva Motor Show earlier this moth, the motoring press were simply mooned by Aston's aspiration.

To excite the already 77 pre-owners of the One-77, Aston Martin has been releasing videos about the One-77, and why it's been made and how it's been made. Most of the videos are just simply Aston's CEO talking about the inspiration behind the One-77. However, this video shows something we really wanted to see and know about in the One-77. The interior.

The interior is quite simply the most important thing about the car. It's basically were the driver is in-control of the mighty machine. Of course, in the One-77 it doesn't disappoint.

The One-77's interior is spoiled with lots white cream leather and black stitching overall. The slightly square-shaped steering wheel is dominated by a black horn with the Aston Martin badge. What's most impressive is the center console. It's this sway of black gloss that extends all the way the windshield with red touch buttons.

Here's the video below.

Source : [Youtube]

Report : Aston Martin's Lagonda to debut another concept "completely opposite of what you saw in Geneva", in May

We all know that Aston Martin is working hard to bring back the luxury Lagonda badge. However, it was surprising to see the first Lagonda Concept in Geneva, as a coupish SUV. It looked like that Aston wanted to market Lagonda as main-stream cars for people with a bit of cash, which isn't like Lagondas of the old. Luckly, we were wrong.

Head of the Lagonda project, David Richards, announced that Aston Martin will be back this May with a second Lagonda concept that “will be completely opposite of what you saw in Geneva.”

With rumors going around that Aston teamed-up with Mercedes, we could see a proper luxury Lagonda sedan, that could compete with Mercedes' Maybach.

Source: [Leblog Auto]

RumorMill : Lagonda Concept gives first hint at Aston Martin - Mercedes Benz cooperation

When Aston Martin announced bringing back the Lagonda brand with the Lagonda Concept in Gevena Motor Show last week, Aston got positive feedback on moving it to production. So, Aston confirmed that the production version SUV of the old luxury brand will come by in 2012. However, according to Aston Martin Lagonda designer Marek Reichman, said that the “body language is avant-garde.”

Reichman also confirmed that the Concept in fact shares its platform with the Mercedes-Benz GL, giving us the first hint at a closer Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz relationship. Reichman said that the Lagonda Concept is the very first product of cooperation between Aston and Daimler. So, although it has a Aston Martin V12 right now, but in production form, it could see V6, AMG V8 as well as Daimler’s two-mode hybrid system. Reichman also said that the luxury Lagonda Concept will capable of doing some off-roading on rough roads, too.

So, if the British-German relationship really works, we could see some other models, like a DB10 or more luxury SUVs that have the British soul and passion, but beneath, it's German engineering.

Source : [Motor Trend]

All 2009 Geneva Motor Show Reveals !

Missed anything of the Geneva Motor Show? Well this index is here to help. All new reveals that were held in the Swiss gates.

Although the show was mainly about environmentally-friendly cars, there were some ultra-supercars that were exciting.

Here's the list:

Alfa Romeo:
1)2009 Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept

Aston Martin:
1)2009 Aston Martin Lagonda Concept
2)2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
3)2010 Aston Martin One-77
4)2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage

Audi:
1)2010 Audi A5/S5 Cabriolet
2)2010 Audi TT RS

Bentley:
1)2010 Bentley Continental Supersports

BMW:
1)2009 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo Concept

Bugatti:
1)2009 Bugatti Veyron Bleu Centenaire

Chevrolet:
1)2009 Chevrolet Corvette GT1 Championship Edition
2)2010 Chevrolet Spark (production)

Citroën:
1)2009 Citroën DS Inside Concept

Dacia:
1)2009 Dacia Duster Concept

Ferrari:
1)2010 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano HGTE
2)2010 Ferrari 599XX

Fiat:
1)2010 Fiat 500C

Ford:
1)2009 Ford Focus RS
2)2009 Ford Iosis Max Concept

Giugiaro:
1)2009 Giugiaro Frazer-Nash Namir

Honda:
1)2010 Honda Insight (EU Version)

Hyundai:
1)2009 Hyundai i20 3-door
2)2009 Hyundai ix-onic Concept

Infiniti:
1)2009 Infiniti Essence Concept

Kia:
1)2009 Kia No.3 Concept

Koenigsegg:
1)2009 Koenigsegg Quant Concept

Lamborghini:
1)2010 Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce

Magna Steyr:
1)2009 Magna Steyr Mila EV

Mansory:
1)2009 Mansory Bugatti LINEA Vincero

Mazda:
1)2010 Mazda 3 MPS
2)2010 Mazda 3 i-stop

Mercedes:
1)2010 Mecedes E-Class Coupe

Mitsubishi:
1)2009 Mitsubishi i MiEV Sport Air Concept

Nissan:
1)2009 Nissan Qazana Concept

Opel:
1)2012 Opel Ampera

Porsche:
1)2010 Porsche 911 GT3
2)2010 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid

Renault:
1)2010 Renault Clio RS 200
2)2010 Renault Megane RS 250

Rinspeed:
1)2009 Rinspeed iChange
2)2009 Rinspeed E2

Rolls-Royce:
1)2009 Rolls-Royce 200EX Concept

RUF:
1)2010 RUF eRUF Greenster

Spyker:
1)2009 Spyker C8 Aileron

Tata:
1)2009 Tata 2009 Prima Concept
2)2010 Tata Nano Europa

Vauxhall:
1)2012 Vauxhall Ampera

Volkswagen:
1)2009 Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion Concept
2)2010 Volkswagen Polo

Zagato:
1)2009 Zagato Perana Z-One

New Reveal At Geneva : 2009 Aston Martin Lagonda Concept

100 years ago, Lagonda was a luxury company belonged to Aston Martin. Lagonda created cars like M45 Tourer that was a rival to Bugatti back in 1934. Lagonda soldered one until the 1980's, were Aston's luxury brand was canceled because of poor sales. Well at Geneva, Aston Martin announced that they'll bring Lagonda back! This is what they came up with.
It's the Lagonda Concept. First rumors before it came out, that it was a Mercedes S-Class rival. Well from the pictures now, it's seems this concept is a 4-seater sporty crossover, much like the BMW X6.

“The Lagonda is the luxury car of the future,” says Aston Martin Lagonda Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez, “a combination of total usability, a new form and innovative new technology and materials.”

Lagonda concept uses Aston Martin’s 6.0L V12 and rides on 22-inch wheels. It has a very strong and bold design. It certainly shows some Aston DNA in the front fasica. We expect to hear a lot more about the revival and the new generation of the Lagonda Marque (luxury sedan built in the 80's) in the near future.

Welcome back, Langonda !

Source : [Aston Martin]

New Reveal At Geneva : 2010 Aston Martin One-77

Finally. After a long wait for unveiling, Aston Martin has finally unveiled the uber-limited One-77. Chassis no.1 is on display to show Aston Martin engineering and design expertise. Who check us daily knows that this Aston is the most powerful, fastest and exclusive model ever. We also like to think that it's the most beautiful. The vents that cut the headlights, the wide wheel arches, and the huge Aston trade mark grille all make it the Aston we dream about.Today Aston Martin released new images and also additional details about the One-77. Aston Martin One-77’s structural code is a lightweight and immensely rigid carbon fiber monocoque. This lightweight supercar features inboard suspension front and rear, with pushrods employed to transfer vertical suspension movements to the horizontally mounted spring/damper units. Moreover, six-speed sequential manual gearbox and carbon ceramic brakes at all four corners come standard. So it's probably the best handling Aston yet. Like all Aston Martins, the One-77 uses a naturally aspirated engine. It's a 7.3L V12 with "over 700hp" is what Aston said. Because it only weighs 1.5 tons and it Aston hatched one of the best aero dynamic designs, the One-77 hits 60 mph in a mind blowing 3.5 seconds and will do above 200 mph. Finally, Aston is now in the over 200 mph club!As I say again, this is the most exclusive Aston. With only 77 units will be made, and a price tag of $1.2 million. Despite that, all 77 One-77 are pre-sold! Also expect at the Geneva Motor Show some more Astons like the V12 Vantage and the DBS Volante.

Source : [Aston Martin]

New Reveal : 2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante; revealed ahead of the 2009 Geneva Motor Show

At the Geneva Motor Show, the Aston Martin section will be exciting the press with new models. The new V12 Vantage, and this the new DBS Volante (convertible). So it's an open-top version of James Bond's hardcore edition DBS!
However from past experience, when Aston hatched-off the roof of the DB9, they've turned it into a cruiser rather than a sports car. Well, not exactly this time. Because the cache on the DBS hard-top (coupe) is so stiff and solid, the DBS Volante gets the same solidity structure as the coupe model. That means, the DBS Volante will just look as beautiful as the DBS coupe, and enjoyable as a true open-air vehicle. And when the weather gets awful, the Volante's retractable fabric roof will come on in just 14 seconds, and can be done while moving at 30 mph.
With the full structural solidity and low-weight body as the DBS coupe, the DBS Volante doesn't lose any of its original power. So, the DBS Volante gets the same 510hp and 420 lb-ft from the 6.0L V12. Mated to either a 6-speed manual, or a 6-speed “Touchtronic” sequential-automatic gearbox. Both transmissions get the DBS Volante to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, and up to 191 mph; same numbers at the DBS coupe. Also as the DBS coupe, the Volante is offered with carbon ceramic brakes as standard.
In addition to the awesome V12 sound, passengers can also enjoy Bang & Olufsen’s renowned ‘BeoSound DBS’ in-car entertainment system, featuring 13 speakers in standard equipment.

Prices will be unveiled next week at the Geneva Motor Show.

Source : [Aston Martin]

New Reveal : 2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage; revealed ahead of the 2009 Geneva Motor Show

At the Geneva Motor Show this march, Aston Martin's party will include 4 new models. The DBS Volante (Cabrio) version, the 4-door sedan Rapide, the very limited One-77, and this. It's the production version of the V12 Vantage!According to Aston Martin, the V12 Vantage is the fastest and most agile Vantage ever. Based on the V8 Vantage, the V12 Vantage features a 6.0L V12 engine from the DBS, producing 510 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. Performance numbers are amazing for a Vantage. 0-60 mph comes in 4.1 seconds and will keep going all the way to 190 mph. So that's nearly 200 mph in a baby Aston!Power is connected through a 6-speed manual. Also, Aston fitted the new V12 Vantage with a faster steering and a new differential, so this Aston handles better and more stable than the standard V8 Vantage.New V12 engine weighs 100 kg more than the V8 engine, but thanks to lightweight materials and components, including, carbon ceramic brakes, lightweight wheels lightweight inner rear quarter panels, lightweight seats the overall kerb weight is only up by 50 kg than its V8 sibling.In the looks department, the V12 Vantage looks as beautiful as any Vantage, but with new supercar details. It features an all new body kit with a carbon-fiber front splitter, new rims, and a rear diffuser. There's also 4 scoops on the new bulged hood to cool that monstrous engine. All these visual changes help enhance the V12 Vantage's aerodynamics and cooling aids and which optically widens the car. It just looks fantastic!
The V12 Vantage will also be quite exclusive with only 300-500 units will be built per year.

Source: [Aston Martin]