Interesting when I read that Aston Martin have announced an ultra-compact concept car, based on the Toyota IQ, that will be known as the Cygnet. Quite a little stablemate for the insane V12 engined Vantage. By contrast this machine will be powered by a small 1 liter mill with only 3 cylinders and developing 50kW (67HP) in the base model — which is not actually too shabby for such as small motor, when you think about it — or by an optional 1.3 liter four cylinder that will develop about 76kW (102HP).

According to Aston Martin, the introduction of this small machine is aligned with its plans to reduce overall CO₂ emissions of their range of vehicles — not a small feat when you consider the engine outputs and displacements of the Cygnet’s stable mates. While this car is still a concept, it is certainly an unusual move by the marque, however, I am thinking that this may be to make them look better in the light of new emission laws that may be passed.

Have a look at some pictures provided by Aston Martin.