Just a few months ago Aston Martin design head Marek Reichman stated that an SUV was out of the question for the sports car brand, but a new report indicates that the program is still alive within the walls of the British automaker. According to Automotive News, Aston Martin could launch its first SUV as early as 2021.
Details are still few and far between, but Aston Martin’s utility vehicle would give well-heeled buyers an alternative to Bentley’s upcoming SUV model. The Aston SUV would also square off against Lamborghini’s SUV, should that vehicle ever be given the green light.
Leaning on new corporate partner Daimler, the Aston Martin SUV could use either the Mercedes-Benz GL or S-Class as its base. Given Aston Martin’s sports car DNA, it’s possible that the SUV could be offered exclusively with rear-wheel drive.
Powertrains would almost certainly be sourced from Mercedes’ AMG division, although an in-house V12 isn’t totally out of the question. An optional alternative drivetrain, like a plug-in hybrid, might be required to meet 2021 economy regulations.
The SUV project is still very much in limbo, but Aston Martin will likely make a decision on the fate of the utility vehicle by 2017. Aston’s 2009 Lagonda SUV concept was a total flop, but the automaker could tests the waters again with a new concept vehicle within the new few years.
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