An Eco-Friendly, First Mini Car Segment

From November 16th, Aston Martin is exhibiting the Cygnet, planned for a 2011 release, in the first-floor show window of the long-established department store Harrods, located on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, London.

As is well known, the Cygnet is a refinement by Aston Martin based on the Toyota iQ. It has become a topic of conversation that Aston Martin, which has never even sold a compact sedan, is suddenly selling a compact car comparable to a kei car. Although based on the iQ, not only the signature Aston Martin grille but also the exterior design has been meticulously crafted. Of course, the interior also boasts Aston Martin's characteristic luxury. The finished product presents a considerably different impression from the base vehicle.

The Cygnet is said to have been created to meet the demand for second and third cars among Aston Martin owners, but there is another objective. This Cygnet is seen as a vehicle that will help reduce the CO2 emissions of luxury car manufacturers. The 1.33-liter engine in the Cygnet produces 72kW (98ps) and 123Nm (12.5kgm). Modifications appear to be ongoing to target CO2 emissions of 120g/km. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, with a CVT available as an option.

Sales will begin next year, and details such as pricing have not yet been announced, but reservations are already being accepted at Aston Martin's dealerships in its home country. However, current Aston Martin owners will be given priority purchasing rights.

The car will be on display at Harrods until December 11th.

BRAND HISTORY
Currently garnering global attention as the coolest sports car brand, Aston Martin of the UK is a name that resonates worldwide. Founded in 1914 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, this small company adopted the Aston Martin name after achieving success in a hill climb competition known as Aston Clinton, and has since left a brilliant mark on the history of motorsport and sports cars.

Conversely, the company has faced numerous financial crises, each time receiving a helping hand, charting a truly eventful course. For instance, David Brown, who became owner in 1947, utilized his excellent management skills and engineering acumen to leave his mark with sports cars like the "DB2" and the racing machine "DBR1," named after him. More recently, the sale of its shares by Ford to an investment group led by David Richards, founder of Prodrive, is still fresh in memory.

However, Aston Martin has consistently pursued the creation of sports cars imbued with potent power and exquisite style throughout every era. The current lineup has expanded to include the "V8 Vantage," "DB9," and the four-door saloon "Rapide."