Currently reading: Geneva motor show 2010: Aston Martin Cygnet
Aston shows us the Cygnet in more detail than ever before

Aston Martin has shown off its Toyota iQ-based Cygnet in more detail than ever before.

These Aston Martin Cygnet official studio pictures show how Aston has integrated its own styling cues – such as its rear lights and door handles – into the iQ’s existing design.

Aston Martin Cygnet studio pics

The Cygnet’s exterior combines an all-new Aston grille with standard iQ lights to impressive effect. It has been devised entirely by Aston’s Gaydon design group, led by Marek Reichman.

The luxurious, all-hide interior, also designed by Aston, uses the existing cabin’s instrument pack and architecture, but new colours and trim materials give it a new look that's much more luxurious than the standard iQ’s.

The Cygnet uses standard Toyota iQ mechanical components and proportions, but with different wheels and tyres. It is believed that both the iQ’s punchier 1.3 litre four-cylinder engine is the most likely to be offered.

The new model, officially billed as a concept, is expected to be offered for sale before the end of next year. It will initially be sold only to existing Aston Martin owners and those with cars on order, but after an introductory period it will go on general sale.

The Aston Cygnet will be built in Gaydon, using iQs built in Japan and specially imported to the UK for the purpose. The Gaydon factory has a flexible layout that will allow a Cygnet finishing line to be installed without disruption to present Aston models.

Aston Martin expects to build between 1000 and 2000 cars a year, with earliest cars earmarked for sale in the UK and Europe where the iQ has won a five-star NCAP safety rating. Cars will be sold exclusively through Aston dealers.

Aston insiders concede that adding the car to its range will have benefits for the company's average carbon dioxide emissions, but stress that this isn't the motivation for building the Cygnet.

Ulrich Bez, who describes Toyota as the world leader in volume manufacture, wants to offer the Cygnet to existing Aston owners as "a unique combination of opposites, and a novel transport solution”.

“This concept is akin to an exclusive tender for a luxury yacht,” Bez explains. “It allows us to apply Aston Martin design language, craftsmanship and brand values to a completely new segment of the market.”

In the longer term, the car could sell in markets well beyond Europe, if demand is established. It is even possible that cars which left Japan as iQs could eventually be taken back as Cygnets - at more than twice the price.

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tomisdadude 29 December 2009

Re: Aston Martin Cygent: new pics

The only thing I can say good about it is atleast there not makes more than 2000 a year its that bad.

Why would you want to drive a hotpoint with an aston martin badge on it.

Like I have been saying whenever I heard about this aston martin Cygnet I would rather walk than be seen in that horrrible thing.

My dad worringly keeps on saying he wants 2 buy one to match his DBS which i hope he doesnt he will look like a right old idiot with one and plus he owns a X6 aswell which is still to this day the most viewed thread on autocar.

crashbangwallop 28 December 2009

Re: Aston Martin Cygent: new pics

What a pity they will only sell this to existing owners. We won't therefore get to know who is a sufficient twonk to pay £25k for an an iQ with a bolt on V12 grille over the 1.0 litre engine.

coolboy 20 December 2009

Re: Aston Martin Cygent: new pics

all this story reminds me about the other one that a few years back I read from an Aston head, regarding the creticism related to the use of Ford stalks in Aston Martin cars:

that`s not an issue, Aston owners do not have any experience driving Fords...

wow! bold one

So, I bet now Cygnet drivers do not know that IQ exists...

I wonder what is going to be now displayed, in place of the silly Power Beauty and Soul

Today, Tommorow?????

(we all know that power, it`s not; beauty, for god sake!, soul... ahahah, give me a break!)

I see here a good chance for Toyota getting burned, for the double, we can get a better finished/attractive IQ, displaying AM badges...