A new report from the UK says Aston Martin is considering a rugged 4x4 to compete with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender. Aston Martin is reportedly evaluating the design of such a vehicle, but has not yet decided whether to proceed with development.
Internally, the new product is called "Project Rambo," a name that could be a nod to Lamborghini's classic LM002 (also known as the Rambo Lambo), which aims to be a "top-of-the-line off-road vehicle with supercar performance and a level of luxury," according to the report. If this off-road vehicle goes into production, only about 2,500 units will be produced. With such low sales, it doesn't make sense to develop an entirely new platform, and Aston seems to think so.
An insider revealed that the development of a new platform is unlikely, suggesting that the new off-road vehicle should be based on the DBX model (now only the DBX707). Like the Mercedes-AMG G63, the DBX has a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 and AWD, but the massive power and all-wheel drive alone aren't enough to make it a true competitor to the iconic G-Class and Defender.
If the new luxury off-road vehicle goes into production, it will likely use a hybrid powertrain and is unlikely to be an all-electric vehicle, as Aston Martin has already delayed plans for its electric vehicle. Its first electric model, which will hit the market in 2026, will be a tall four-seater GT, but unlike the Lamborghini Lanzador concept.
The renewal and refresh of Aston Martin's full range of products is almost complete, with the DB12 replacing the DB11, the DBX model getting a complete overhaul, the Vantage model getting a complete facelift, and the Vanquish making its debut this year. With the completion of the upgrade of the core product line, Aston Martin's next goal is to expand, and the Rambo project has the potential to be a new growth point.
With Project Rambo, Aston Martin may attract customers who would otherwise have reservations about the brand, bringing a new dimension to the brand. And the project is expected to create a star model that will be popular for a long time. Just like the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes G-Class, they are loved for their off-road capabilities and iconic design. If Aston Martin could apply its unique design language to an equally iconic and timeless off-road model, it would have a "money printing machine".
Despite Adam's intentions, the market is very competitive. Like BMW, which is also considering launching a specific model with off-road performance. However, as can be seen from the hesitation of Munich and Guyton, it will be very difficult to take market share from the two unrepeatable classics of the Defender and the G-Class.