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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.
- Lagonda Working On Mercedes S-Class-based Sedan? - MotorAuthority
