What's this all about?
Aston Martin has officially confirmed that its Lagonda Taraf (a modern day take on the William Towns-designed Lagonda of 1976) will, contrary to initial plans, be available to buy in markets outside of the Middle East. And that includes the UK, where buyers can specify a right-hand drive car.
But isn't 'Taraf' Arabic?
It is; it means 'ultimate luxury', which is fitting given the high level of customisation open to buyers of the new Lagonda. Aston Martin expects most of its buyers to put their cars through the 'Q by Aston Martin' bespoke service so it's unlikely any two cars will be the same.
What's under that long bonnet?
Aston's rousing 6.0-litre V12 engine, though the company has neglected to tell us how much power it'll produce. Somewhere between 550- and 600hp is a reasonable assumption given its other applications, though presumably the Lagonda's remit will fall down more on the side of luxury than outright performance. Hence we expect an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. The Taraf is built on Aston's 'VH' aluminium chassis system so it will certainly be rear-wheel drive only, while much of the bodywork will be fashioned out of carbon fibre.
Are there really enough buyers for all these limited edition Astons?
Good point really. In the past month we've heard about the Vantage GT3 and Vulcan track warriors, but they may appeal to a different audience. Regardless, Aston has said it plans to make no more than 200 examples of the Lagonda Taraf.
And the price?
You clearly can't afford one...
Shane O' Donoghue - 28 Feb 2015