De Tomaso is back

Reborn Italian firm kicks off new line-up with BMW X6-rivalling crossover.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Nick Gibbs

February 2011

Meet the car that marks the return of Italian firm De Tomaso to the showrooms. Unveiled at this week’s Geneva Motor Show, this crossover is the first in a line-up that will eventually include a Maserati-rivalling saloon and a coupé.

Dubbed SLS (standing for sport luxury sedan), the name will be changed when it goes into production next year. And in keeping with the marque’s roots, it will be made in Italy at a Turin factory rented from Pininfarina.

The design house was also responsible for the styling of the SLS, which will aim to offer a more exclusive alternative to the BMW X6.

Performance should be strong, thanks to petrol power from either a 300bhp V6 engine or a 550bhp V8. However its appeal will be limited initially due to the lack of a diesel. Prices are expected to start from £75,000.

The reborn company, now overseen by former Fiat executive Gianmario Rossignolo, plans to produce around 3,000 SLSs a year, as well as 3,000 saloons and 2,000 coupés.