Aston Martin Cygnet Concept – First Pictures of Luxury Commuter Based on Toyota iQ

As competition increases and additional revenue streams are sought by automakers, many companies are forced to make compromises that seemed highly unlikely several years ago. Just look no further than Porsche and their Cayenne SUV to see a perfect example of a vehicle that everyone baulked at until its release, which actually ended up a resounding success, both financially and for the brand itself.

Aston Martin is no different in its pursuit of attracting new markets. The company has just released the first images of their new Cygnet concept, a tiny commuter that at first glance seems to go against everything the company stands for – lavish supercars capable of breakneck speed. But the green movement is here to stay and eco-consciousness is now a part of every OEM’s lexicon.

Based on the Toyota iQ and restyled with an Aston Martin brush, the Cygnet is a surprising departure from the brand that has brought us exotics such as the austere V12 Vanquish. The front looks like a smooched DBS, complete with the company’s open grill-work and hood vents. From there, any hint of Aston Martin’s unique cache disappears as the eye travels across the doors and around the rear. However, somehow, strangely enough, it all seems to work just fine in the diminutive package if you severely adjust your expectations.

If you’re still feeling a little queasy, the goods news is that the interior picks up some of the slack from where the exterior may fall short. The cabin is bathed in red and black leather with all the fit and finish we’re accustomed to from this British supercar maker (sort of). Even though Aston Martin has indicated that the Cygnet is a concept only, the company has stated that it wants to enter production next year for the European market.

Aston Martin Cygnet Concept
Aston Martin today releases the first official images of the ‘Cygnet’ – a new luxury commuter concept car.

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.

Work on the concept is ongoing and will continue into 2010 when it is hoped that it will become a production reality initially available to Aston Martin customers in the UK and Europe.

Source: Aston Martin