2004 Aston Martin-Bertone Jet2 Concept

But the fact of the matter is, such additions are minor in comparison to old school coach builders that often altered the

Aston Martin has a long history with coach builder Bertone, naming its Jet2 after the original Jet concept styled by company head Nuccio Bertone in 1961. (Photo: Bertone)

physical characteristics of a vehicle. Italian styling house Bertone, instead, offers an old-world solution with its Aston Martin Jet2 Concept. Making its debut at the Geneva motor show, it was named after the original Jet concept styled by company head Nuccio Bertone in 1961. The first Jet utilized the underpinnings of the then top-of-the-line Aston Martin DB4 GT as a one-off show car to compete with the likes of the Pininfarina-built Ferrari 500 Superamerica and other special-bodied exotics. Aston Martin has worked with Bertone on multiple occasions since 1953, producing elegant concourse-winning Barchettas and Cabriolets such as the acclaimed DB24. Fittingly, the original Jet is considered to be the most successful collaboration between Aston Martin and Bertone.

After the Jet's production, Aston Martin experimented with several different body style variations aside from the typical coupe and convertible, including a four-door luxury sedan called the Lagonda and a one-off two-door station wagon designated as the Virage "Shooting Brake." Most of the concepts stuck to the traditional coupe and roadster configurations, including those from rival design house Zagato who

While a hatchback Aston Martin sounds far from appealing, in practice it's simply gorgeous. (Photo: Bertone)

recently produced the DBR1. Also, a Vanquish Roadster highlighted Aston's display at this year's Geneva motor show. One variation that has never been produced before is that of a hatchback, with good reason as the concept of a hatchback Aston Martin sounds as appealing as a cod liver oil and vinegar cocktail.

In theory, the idea of an Aston hatch does not work, but in practice the vehicle is simply gorgeous. Bertone's starting point for the Jet2 was the Vanquish, however, in the customization process the wheelbase was stretched by a stately 210 mm. It also features a completely new body, although it is still unmistakably an Aston Martin. Alterations fabricated by the Italian coachwork company include flush headlight covers, an altered grille, and additional air vents, which supply extra air to the larger front brakes.