New 2018 Lamborghini Urus 05 | 12 | 2017
LAMBORGHINI HAS LIFTED the wars from its 190mph, 0-62mph in 3.6secs super-SUV, the Urus. It goes on-sale at Scotland's Lamborghini Centre in Edinburgh next Spring priced from around £165,000. (Related: Pope takes delivery of 201mph Lamborghini)
Named after a large Spanish fighting bull, Lamborghini says the Urus sets a new benchmark in the sector in terms of “power, performance and driving dynamics”. The Italian sportscar maker also says it’s new model combines “design, luxury and daily usability”.
Based on the same VW Group MLB Evo platform as the Audi Q7, the Urus is powered by a 641bhp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, which develops 850Nm of torque. The all-wheel drive system features active torque vectoring and four-wheel steering, and power is transmitted via an eight-speed automatic gearbox, which has been tuned for shorter ratios in low gears. Just for good measure, there’s also carbon ceramic brakes, adaptive air suspension and active roll stabilisation.
And if 0-62mph in 3.6s isn’t quick enough, it’ll also hit 124mph from standstill in 12.8s, before topping out at 190mph, which makes it the fastest SUV available.
In ‘normal’ driving, the four-wheel drive system sends 60% of its torque to the rear wheels. But when a boost in traction is required, it can instantly force up to 70% to the front wheels. In direct contrast, if necessary, it can send 87% of the torque to the rear.
The driver can also select from up to six driving modes — including Strada, Sport, Corsa, Terra (off-road), Neve (snow) and Sabbia (sand) — and as is the case with other Lamborghini models, there’s also a customisable Ego setting.
There’s no mistaking the dramatic looks of the Urus. It’s unique styling combines sharp creases, deep cuts and a long, swooping roofline. And while wheel options range from 21 to 23 inches, it can also be fitted with specially-developed Pirelli all-season or winter tyres.
It’s also unmistakably a Lamborghini. While the tail-lamps are inspired by the Huracan, there’s the now traditional thin LED headlights and gaping grille of a modern-day Lambo. What is clearly new is the raised ride height and angular wheel arches, plus the thin, coupe-like window line at the rear.
The interior of the Urus can accommodate five adults, though the seating positions are set low, while the dashboard mirrors the whacky exterior lines. Two standard-fit touchscreens dominate the dash: the upper display manages functions including navigation, media and phone connectivity. The lower screen offers a keyboard for inputting information, and also gives access to the climate control and seat heating. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard, though a Bang & Olufsen stereo is an option.
As you would expect, a host of driver assistance systems — including autonomous emergency braking, a top-view camera and even a trailer coupling mode — are offered on the Urus. Standard features includes front and rear parking sensors, cruise control and auto high beam.
"The Lamborghini Urus is a visionary approach based on the infusion of Lamborghini DNA into the most versatile vehicle, the SUV,” Stefano Domenicali, Lamborghini Chairman and CEO, said.
“The Urus elevates the SUV to a level not previously possible, the Super SUV. It is a true Lamborghini in terms of design, performance, driving dynamics and emotion as well as drivable every day in a range of environments.
“The Urus fits perfectly within the Lamborghini family as a high performance car. It is the culmination of intensive development and passionate skill to create a new breed of bull: a Super SUV that transcends the boundaries of expectations and opens the door to new possibilities, for both our brand and our customers."
Related: Record year for Lamborghini
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Jim McGill