When Aston Martin first announced the Lagonda sedan, it said it was exclusively made for markets in the Middle East. However, the automaker’s new CEO Andy Palmer may have a different opinion.
At the car’s recent launch in Dubai, where it will be called the Lagonda “Taraf” (which translates as “ultimate luxury”), Andy Palmer said that global demand for the luxury sedan is “extremely high” and the company may reconsider its original sales strategy.
“I can confirm today that we are also evaluating the opportunity to offer this Lagonda in other markets,” Palmer was quoted as saying by Top Gear. Obviously that means the Lagonda sedan may arrive in important luxury car markets like the United States, China and Europe, including the UK.
The Aston Martin Lagonda Taraf will launch in the Middle East in 2015, with an estimated price tag in excess of £400,000 ($637,400). However, not anyone can get it, as it is offered on an invitation only basis.
Based on Aston Martin’s VH architecture, the Lagonda Taraf is expected to feature a 5.9-liter V12 engine with more than 565 hp. The rear-wheel drive super sedan is estimated to boast a top speed close to 200 mph (322 km/h) and a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) sprint of around 4 seconds.
Aston Martin’s initial decision to sell it exclusively in the Middle East had a lot to do with the fact that many of the original Towns-designed Lagondas were sold in the region. “The Lagonda nameplate has always had a particular appeal for our customers in the Middle East. I’m sure those who take the opportunity to purchase the new Lagonda will be proud to own what will doubtless go on to become a piece of luxury automotive history,” Palmer said.
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