Aston Martin Cygnet: $30k - €25k Mini Based on the Toyota iQ and it's Official!

We know what you're thinking but you couldn't be more wrong; this is not some funky replica kit but an official concept for an Aston Martin mini car! The Cygnet is based on the Toyota iQ and it is expected to go on sale before the end of next year with an estimated base price somewhere around £20,000 or about $30,000 - €25,000. The initial plan is for the Cygnet to be offered only to current and future Aston Martin owners but a general release could follow at a later date.

"Now is the right time for Aston Martin to take this first bold step to embark on this special project - made possible with the support of an organisation of Toyota's stature and capability and the intelligent design and perfect city car package of the iQ," said Aston Martin Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez.

The British automaker did not disclose any specific details, but from the official teaser shots released by Aston Martin it is evident that the Cygnet will feature a new skin while retaining the basic shape of Toyota's iQ citycar. Expect to see a new interior adorned with Aston Martin-esque details.

"Much work is still required, but I am confident that this project could become reality in the not too distant future," said Bez. "This concept - akin to an exclusive tender to a luxury yacht - will allow us to apply Aston Martin design language, craftsmanship and brand values to a completely new segment of the market."

There's no word on the powertrain options but it is believed that the Cygnet will be us the iQ's 1.33-liter four-cylinder petrol that makes 100HP at 6,000 rpm and peak torque of 125Nm at 4,400rpm. It is possible that Aston Martin's engineers will tweak the iQ's suspension and brake system.

"The offering of a 'Cygnet' with a DBS, DB9 or Vantage is a unique combination of opposites and a novel transport solution allowing intelligent and sensitive mobility on an exclusive and innovative level," Bez noted.

The Toyota iQ donor cars will be built in Japan and then shipped to Aston Martin's Gaydon factory in the UK where they will be transformed into Cygnets.

And you thought GM's badge engineering was ridiculous...