Lamborghini, a name synonymous with supercars, has now etched a new chapter in its illustrious history with the Urus SE. This is a vehicle that only a select few will have the privilege of owning.
The Urus SE is the first PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) version of the Lamborghini Super SUV and was unveiled in the UK over the Early May bank holiday weekend. It is a marvel of automotive engineering, with a fresh design, optimised aerodynamics, and unprecedented onboard technology.
The Urus SE stands out with its 800 PS hybrid powertrain, which is set to be a disruptor in terms of performance, efficiency, emissions, and driving pleasure. Its 'two hearts', thermal and electric, deliver the highest torque and power values ever seen in its category. This, along with an 80 per cent reduction in emissions, showcases Lamborghini's commitment to innovation and sustainability.
We haven’t driven it yet, but prepare to be exhilarated. The Urus SE guarantees an unmatched driving experience, a promise backed by Lamborghini's reputation for high-performance vehicles. The automaker tells us that the plug-in hybrid system enhances the vehicle's performance and dynamics, and we have no reason to doubt Lamborghini’s claims.
Indeed, the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine has been re-engineered to work optimally with the electric powertrain. It develops 620 PS of clout and 800 Nm of driving torque; the combustion unit is combined with an electric powertrain serving up 192 PS and 483 Nm of torque. In delivering maximum output, the main focus is on the calibration strategy between the ICE and the e-motor, reaching a total, as we've mentioned, of 800 PS to ensure an optimal power curve in every driving mode and on every surface.
A 25.9-kWh lithium-ion battery is situated below the load floor and above the electronically controlled rear differential. The permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor inside the eight-speed automatic transmission can boost the V8 combustion mill and provide traction, making the Urus SE a 100 per cent electric four-wheel-drive vehicle capable of travelling more than 37 miles in EV mode.
Debuting on the Urus SE is the centrally located longitudinal electric torque vectoring system with an electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch. This technology distributes driving torque variably and continuously between the front and rear axles. According to Lamborghini, the transfer case synergises with the new electronic limited-slip differential installed on the rear axle, giving the vehicle "on demand" oversteering to convey the feel of a purebred super sports car.
So, as you may have gathered by now, the Urus SE is not just a hybrid; it's a high-performance beast. It accelerates from 0 to 62mph in a mere 3.4 seconds and reaches a maximum speed of 194mph. These figures make the SE the most potent Urus ever and the fastest production car in its segment, setting a new benchmark in the Super SUV category.
The Urus SE is also a trailblazer in the evolution of SUV design. Its updated lines focus on aerodynamic efficiency, and the new design elements, such as the floating bonnet and redesigned bumper, give the SE a fresh and dynamic look. This innovative shape is sure to intrigue even the most discerning automotive enthusiasts.
At the rear, the boot hatch has been completely redesigned, introducing a Gallardo-inspired continuity that harmonises the lines by connecting the taillight clusters with "Y" lights and the new rear diffuser, which gives the vehicle even sportier proportions.
Inside, the cabin has been updated to highlight Lamborghini's signature "feel like a pilot" design DNA. New solutions are featured throughout the front section of the dashboard, accentuating the lightweight feeling already introduced on the Revuelto – the Lambo we covered at its UK unveiling last year.
A larger screen - now 12.3 inches - installed in the dashboard's centre features a new version of the Human Machine Interface that is even more intuitive and has updated graphics consistent with those of the Revuelto.
We grabbed a coffee with Lamborghini Design Director Mitja Borkert, who talked about his love for music as much as his passion for automotive design. Indeed, he told us that music inspires his work.
"There is always music when I'm sketching or in the car thinking. Everything is driven by music, in my case. When I'm listening to tunes, especially Depeche Mode, and when I think about artists like Madonna, Michael Jackson, Depeche Mode, and Lady Gaga - anyone who has had a long-term career – they’re the ones who have created one DNA.”
He continued: “You listen to them, and you think, 'Ah, that’s Depeche Mode'. But they’re not just doing the same thing – they are changing themselves constantly. This is the link to Lamborghini because, since I joined eight years ago, I have always said, 'Expect the unexpected.' Under the umbrella of our design DNA, we change our cars with every project.
“The purpose of the Urus SE is that it's a daily drivable super sports SUV. You can enjoy the feeling of a Lamborghini with five people. You can feel like a pilot - you can feel the bubbling, the vibration, the material, the design – everything. And you can enjoy this all together. This is the uniqueness of the Urus SE,” explained Mitja.
The Urus SE is truly a work of art, not just because of its breathtaking looks or unparalleled performance. It is also a testament to the future of automotive engineering. As more and more automakers turn to hybrid and electric powertrains, Lamborghini has shown that high performance and sustainability can coexist. The Urus SE is a step towards a cleaner, greener future without sacrificing performance or style.
Pricing hasn’t been confirmed yet, but when the Urus SE launches later this year, expect to pay well over £200,000.