2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class 04.04.2012
Aston Martin could be eyeing two Mercedes-souced platforms
According to a recent report, Aston Martin could receive a version of the next-generation Mercedes GL.
Reportedly codenamed the X167, the 2018 GL could spawn an Aston Martin variant if the British automaker can pony up enough money to appease the Germans. As an unnamed Daimler board member explained to Automobile Magazine, “Dieter [Zetsche] is quite chuffed about the Aston thing and he is willing to let them in on X167. Money, however, is a big issue. Aston’s £500 ($825) million four-year investment plan is just not enough when you need to renew your entire model range and think about adding an SUV.”
Regardless of what happens, the next-generation GL is slated to ride on the MHA architecture and be available with two wheelbases. Nothing is official but the long-wheelbase variant could adopt the GL Pullman moniker.
In related news, Mercedes executives were reportedly shown the new Aston Martin DB9 in February. Little is known about the car but it is "redesigned and partially reengineered." The model is rumored to use an AMG-sourced 4.0-liter V8 engine and Aston Martin's familiar V12.
While the DB9 is slated to ride on the VH platform, there is speculation the company could eventually use the Mercedes MSA platform that will underpin the next-generation SL and SLK. However, the platform is several years off as it won't arrive until 2019.
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