These days, in order to close the order books as early as possible – and get customers to pay deposits – carmakers are revealing future products in more detail before launch. That of course puts spy photographers out of business although it also takes the fun out of guessing what the production model will look like.
Yesterday, Aston Martin released a further glimpse of the final production exterior of its upcoming DBS GT Zagato model. Paired with the DB4 GT Zagato Continuation to complete the DBZ Centenary Collection – of which only 19 will be created and are priced at £6 million (about RM31 million) for the pair – these latest renders provide a fresh look at some of the model’s key design features.
The DBS GT Zagato is set for production in 2020, joining each of the 19 DB4 GT Zagato cars set to be created at the Aston Martin Works the rest of this year.
Next evolution in design language
Taking Aston Martin’s most potent series production car – the acclaimed DBS Superleggera – as its starting point, the DBS GT Zagato embodies the next evolution in Aston Martin Zagato design language. Inspired by the voluptuous shapes that previously dressed the original DB4 GT Zagato, designers at the two companies have worked hard to conjure a similarly evocative design language.
At the car’s front, a newly created and unique ‘dynamic’ grille allows the car’s frontal area to transform its appearance. When stationary, each of the 108-individual diamond-shaped carbonfibre pieces remain flush with the car’s beautiful formed exterior. However, upon start-up DBS GT Zagato will appear to flutter into life, as each piece opens to allow the car’s twin-turbo V12 to breathe.
Drama in design
Marek Reichman, Chief Creative Officer, Aston Martin Lagonda said: “This is a car that is not only focused around beauty, but drama too. Our dynamic grille gives us an opportunity to provide the car with two very different identities. When parked, DBS GT Zagato will almost look like it’s resting, but with the rear of the car still appearing muscular and primed for action. Only on start-up will the car truly become alert and ready to perform, delivering both an aural and visual treat for onlookers”.
While the front end will be intricately finished, Aston Martin’s design studio has utilised a camera-operated rearview central mirror, to accommodate the previously shown full length carbonfibre roof. The latest images showcase the final design for this large, single piece of carbonfibre covering where the rear windscreen would typically be placed. Instead, DBS GT Zagato is treated to a pure and simple roofline without any compromises on practicality to the driver.
“Form and function are constantly in battle with one another, but this is a great example of where we have been able to utilise modern technologies to ensure no concession has been made on either side. It was important to me and our teams to deliver something as beautiful as the original DB4 GT Zagato and I feel that we have achieved that with this model and I can’t wait to see it in the metal,” Reichman added.
