Spyker Unveils Its Precision Off-Roader

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? It's the Dutch Super SUV. The D12 Peking-to-Paris is scheduled to arrive at the end of 2007

Spyker Unveils Its Precision Off-Roader

By Stuart Schwartzapfel

The D12 Peking-to-Paris prototype, which Spyker unveiled at the 2006 New York International Auto Show, reflects the Dutch auto maker's roots in racing and aviation. Described as a Super SUV, the four-door off-roader boasts suicide doors, and its instrument panel, controls, and dashboard mimic the interior of an airplane cockpit.

The glass canopy roof is a reference to modern fighter jets, as are the small character lines above each fender. The massive 24-inch alloy wheels -- which Spyker calls Aeroblade rims -- are unlike anything else. The overall proportions put this Super SUV in the midsized category, though it appears compressed because of the high ride height and relatively short overhangs.

EXOTIC LINEAGE. Spyker is known for its use of high quality materials, and the D12 is no exception, with its lightweight aluminum frame and body and rich, textured leather interior. When the car hits the market in the fourth quarter of 2007, each vehicle will be plated with a serial number to verify authenticity for classic car auctions down the road.

The verdict: While the D12 Peking-to-Paris represents a new product category for Spyker, it isn't the first exotic SUV. Between 1986 and 1993, Lamborghini produced the V-12 LM002 -- only 301 examples were built. Spyker claims to have 114 pre-orders for the D12, though we wonder if people will really drop close to $300,000 on a quirky looking SUV with an awkward name.

Schwartzapfel, a certified car freak, writes BusinessWeek.com's Concept of the Week column. He has studied the automotive marketplace and worked as an advertising/marketing strategist for major manufacturers. He does not write about any car brands for which he currently works.