Aston Martin Lagonda SUV still moving forward

New reports suggest Aston Martin is still pushing forward with the Lagonda SUV, with underpinnings from the Mercedes GL.

Last year we reported the Lagonda SUV was back on (although we’re not sure when it was actually off – just MIA) and that it was Aston Martin’s hope they could raid Mercedes parts bin for the underpinnings of the SUV, and take on the building of a new Maybach for Mercedes in the process.

But as we now know, Mercedes has decided a Pullman S Class has more cachet (and less build cost) than the glitter ball Maybach, so Aston Martin’s hopes of a nice profitable design and build deal evaporated with the last roll of the dice for the Maybach brand.

All of which made us question if Aston Martin would, or could, still produce the Lagonda SUV? Would Mercedes still be willing to provide the GL underpinnings and access to their more interesting engines (6.o litre V12, 5.5 litre turbo V8 and perhaps even something like the V6 plug-in hybrid setup from the S500 Hybrid)? The answer, it seems, is yes.

Inside Line are reporting that Aston Martin has confirmed the SUV project is still underway, that it may actually be badged Aston Martin rather than Lagonda, will be based on the Mercedes GL and with its own 6.0 litre V12 and smaller, more efficient, engine options from Mercedes.

All of which makes sense. The Bentley EXP 9 F SUV is a certainty for production, the Lamborghini Urus SUV is heading the same way and the 2013 Range Rover will be a ver premium product with prices up to £125k plus. Aston Martin must be a part of that with a (highly) modified version of the 2009 SUV Concept to ensure growth in emerging markets, particularly China.

And don’t bet against Mercedes becoming more than just suppliers to Aston Martin.