The Riviera is a modern...
The Riviera is a modern interpretation of the Sixties coupé of the same name, and features a sweeping carbon fibre body, complete with gullwing doors and LED headlights. Under the bonnet, power is provided by a new hybrid set-up, which will go into production at parent company General Motors" Shanghai plant in 2008.
Exclusive shots in this...
Exclusive shots in this week"s mag show how the sleek four-door, which is based on the forthcoming V8 coup탩, combines traditional elements such as the distinctive front grille and high-waisted shape, but incorporates two doors on each side.
It could give Aston a fourth model in its range, and open up the brand to a new group of buyers. Based on the coup탩"s platform, the saloon would offer similarly impressive ride and handling, while the 380bhp 4.3-litre V8 would make it faster than its Maserati Quattroporte main rival. The saloon retains the two-door"s stunning looks, yet a longer wheelbase means improved rear legroom, making the car a true four-seater.
The last Lagonda was the square-cut 1976 luxury saloon. With radical styling and hi-tech instrumentation, it was considered pioneering, but reliability problems and low sales made it a rare sight. However, under the stewardship of parent company Ford, it"s unlikely any new Lagonda would suffer the same fate.