Meet the affordable Aston Martin, the Cygnet

KUALA LUMPUR: We understand the joy of owning a car but imagine it being multiplying manifold when it's an Aston Martin. We are aware that the automaker offers boutique supercars that are known for their design, comfort, luxury, and of course, performance. What if we tell you there is a little Aston Martin that can fulfil your dream of owning a luxury car - the Cygnet.

The Aston Martin Cygnet is a limited production model that offers bespoke built quality to its customers. This manual transmission tuned car was launched in 2011, the same time when the European Union imposed new fuel regulations that required auto manufacturers to meet emission and fuel economy regulations. This move was welcomed by environmentalists, however, automakers find it a bit difficult to adapt to the new rules and regulations. The larger manufacturers who were already working on fuel-efficient vehicles adapted quickly, however, the ones like Aston Martin that developed boutique cars were under threat.

To avoid fines and reach compliance, Aston Martin partnered with Toyota, with the latter's iQ microcar rebadged as the newly minted Aston Martin Cygnet.

According to the initial plan, Aston Martin was supposed to sell 4,000 units of the Cygnet annually. However, from 2011 to 2013, only 300 units of the car were sold globally. Back then, the Cygnet was considered as an uncool car with jokes on it floating around the auto industry.

Things, however, are different today, as the Cygnet is now considered as a desirable car that's an integral part of automotive history. It is an Aston Martin with such low production volume and affordable price tag.

It'll not be wrong to say that Aston Martin Cygnet is a future classic with all the right ingredients - instant recognition, low production, and strong branding.

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