Aston Martin Lagonda news - Geneva: Lagonda returns - 2009

More pictures of the Aston Lagonda concept

The biggest surprise at this year's Geneva show? This. Aston Martin waited until day two to reveal its new Lagonda concept and, well, you need a minute to take it all in.

Huge isn't it? But despite the crossover-ish looks, Aston insists this new car isn't an SUV. It's a 'luxury car of the future' with an emphasis on comfort - it is four-wheel drive but that slightly raised ride height is about on-road versatility alone.

Power comes from a 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine, but there are plans to look into hybrid and low emission diesel options before the Lagonda reaches production in three or four years' time. Inside, it's a strict four-seater and it's all about luxury - there's an impressive mix of leathers and deep pile carpets that wouldn't look out of place on a Rolls.

SUV or not, the Lagonda is a bit of a departure for Aston. Fans of the brand who have just got their head round the Rapide saloon (due at the end of the year) might struggle with the idea of a big luxo-barge, but Aston says it's all about broadening the appeal of the brand and opening up the company to more markets worldwide.

The Lagonda concept currently sits on a platform borrowed from Mercedes, and Aston says it's looking to hook up with a partner company to share technology in the build of the road car. There's no word yet on which company this will be.

Prices are left to speculation too. But with a likely small production capacity, it'll be a seriously premium product and probably north of £250k. Would you pay that? Do you even want a luxury Aston wagon? Should stick to what they know? Log in at the box on the top of the page and add your comments below.

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