Okay, I'll admit that I didn't see this coming... Aston Martin has developed a new "luxury commuter concept" called the ‘Cygnet’ which it says "will offer customers a distinctive, intelligent and exclusive solution for urban travel in style and luxury".

The concept will use a Toyota iQ platform - the Euro NCAP 5-star safety package was key in the decision and Aston Martin admit that it is aiming to use the badge to help sell the small economical city car.

Aston Martin Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “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.”

“Much work is still required, but I am confident that this project could become reality in the not too distant future. 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.”

“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.”

It's a bold step. I never thought I'd see the day when Aston Martin would enter the city car segment and whilst one can understand that the brand is one of the most desirable on Earth and will be effective in shifting Cygnets by the bucket-load, many will say that the alliance with Toyota combined with the addition of a small, affordable car to the range will dilute the marque.