► Lagonda Taraf confirmed for EU sales
► Right-hand drive coming too
► Only 200 to be built globally
Aston Martin today confirmed that it would sell the new Lagonda Taraf in Europe and South Africa – with right-hand drive models coming to its home market in the UK.
The news comes after Gaydon originally spelled out the relaunch of Lagonda in overseas markets only, specifically the Middle East.
Why the change in heart on the Lagonda Taraf launch?
No real reason has been given yet. We always hoped they’d give the Taraf sports limousine a wider audience, and they seem to have relented.
Of course, a cynic might suggest that they couldn’t find enough demand in the Middle East to satisfy the investment required to make the Taraf happen in the first place. Or, indeed, that Gaydon always intended to offer the new four-door over here, but first made overtures to the Dubai investment funds that still control a large swathe of Aston Martin.
Whatever the real reason, we are just pleased to see that it’ll be sold in Europe. Combined with the new Vulcan due for a Geneva motor show debut next week, it’s another sign that the Aston wardrobe will come in for a makeover soon.
New chief exec Andy Palmer said: ‘Opening up the Lagonda Taraf to an increased number of customers around the world was a high priority for me as soon as I joined Aston Martin late last year. I wanted to be able to offer this exceptional saloon to the potential owners from around the globe who have been enquiring about it, and I’m very happy that we have been able to expand the Lagonda proposition.’
I’m confused… how is the Taraf different from a Rapide?
Good question. The two are a similar prospect, in underlying technology if not style. The Taraf is a more exclusive kind of sports limo, with a higher price point, greater focus on bespoke luxury and a more powerful V12 powertrain expected. Not to mention the William Towns-inspired boxy couture.
Gaydon has confirmed that no more than 200 Tarafs will be built.