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If the recent reports from Bloomberg hold true, Lamborghini will soon be the next automaker to join the four-door supercar fray.
It’s not the first time we are fielding the prospect of a Raging Bull sedan but it appears the Sant’Agata Bolognese firm is seriously contemplating the birthing of a more family-oriented vehicle. Two years ago, Lamborghini teased the masses with its striking Estoque concept during the Paris auto show, which was also rumored to reach customers in 2011 as a 2012 model, pending corporate approval. Since the global financial crisis, we have heard little about the Estoque, but that could all change soon.
“A third model would fit Lamborghini very well,” said Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann. “A four-door car would be a very feasible approach.”
Joining ranks that include the Aston Martin Rapide, Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed, Maserati Quattroporte, Porsche Panamera, and the Rolls-Royce Ghost, Lamborghini is looking to capitalize on the recovering super-luxury market. According to IHS Automotive estimates, sales in the United States for vehicles priced from $200,000 to $400,000 could increase 70 percent after declining 37 percent in 2009. A four-door Lamborghini would likely fall within this range.
IHS Automotive expects luxury-oriented automakers to sell 19-percent more vehicles priced above $400,000 this year. Last year, Lamborghini reported a pre-tax loss of 35 million euros ($46.5 million) after global sales dropped 38 percent. In 2008, the pre-tax profit was 60 million euros ($79.7 million).
Source: Bloomberg
If I had this kinda of cash my choice would either be the Maserati Quattroporte or the Estoque, so I say go for it. And while they’re at it, build a modern LM002.