The most powerful version of the Lamborghini Urus SUV has been announced – and yes, it’s a plug-in hybrid.
Revealed ahead of the Auto Beijing China motor show, the new Urus SE introduces an electrified powertrain to Lamborghini’s ‘Super SUV’.
As the Italian marque’s best-selling model, broadening the appeal of the Urus clearly matters. The SE also feeds into Lamborghini’s long-term plans for electrification, which began with the Revuelto supercar launched last year.
Lamborghini goes hybrid
As you’d expect from Lamborghini, this move towards decarbonisation doesn’t come at the expense of outrageous performance.
The familiar 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, used in the existing Urus and a host of Porsche and Bentley vehicles, has been re-engineered for use with the plug-in hybrid system. Producing 611hp on its own, the engine is mated to an electric motor inside the eight-speed auto transmission.
A combined output of 800hp and 701lb ft of torque allows the Urus SE to accelerate from 0-62mph in just 3.4 seconds, and reach a top speed of 193mph.
With a 25.9kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the newest Urus SUV can also cover up to 37 miles on battery power alone.
Oversteer on demand
Lamborghini has fitted the Urus SE with a new torque-vectoring system, which allows oversteer ‘on demand’. Proof, if it were needed, that hybrid power doesn’t have to be boring.
The car’s six existing drive modes gain four new ‘electric performance strategies’, including a battery-only EV Drive setting. Recharge mode balances performance with replenishing the batteries to 80 percent charge.
The increased kerb weight of the Urus SE also means Lamborghini has retuned its air suspension settings. Their scope ranges from on-track performance to off-road ability.
Inside the Urus SE
Along with its new hybrid powertrain, Lamborghini has also treated the Urus SE to a visual makeover focused on aerodynamic efficiency.
The bonnet has been reprofiled, and the eagle-eyed will also spot a new front grille and bumper, combined with LED matrix headlights. At the rear, the hatchback gains styling elements that were apparently inspired by the Gallardo supercar.
A new diffuser increases rear-end downforce by 35 percent, with extra underbody vents allowing 15 percent more air to cool mechanical components.
On the inside, a larger 12.3-inch central touchscreen comes with revised graphics, plus a new telemetry page for the SE’s hybrid system. Redesigned air vents and dashboard coverings, plus new anodised aluminium trim, complete the changes.
Pricier than a Performante
Personalisation has become a popular part of the Urus experience. For the SE, Lamborghini offers 100 paintwork options, including the new Arancio Egon (orange) and Bianco Sapphirus (white).
Prices have yet to be confirmed, but expect a premium above the £209,000 asked for the Performante version. Even so, the Urus SE is likely to become the company’s best-seller.
Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann said: “In just a few years, the Urus has become our brand’s best-seller, enabling Lamborghini to attract new customers and strengthen its position in the most important markets. With the Urus SE, we have taken another step towards the future”.
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