Lamborghini has taken the wraps off the new Urus SE Performante, a sharper, lighter, and even more focused version of its plug-in hybrid Super SUV. Sitting above the standard Urus SE, the latest Performante arrives with more power, revised aerodynamics, a new suspension setup, and a host of engineering upgrades that make it the fastest Urus the Italian marque has ever built.
Power comes from the familiar 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 working alongside a permanent magnet electric motor. Together, the hybrid powertrain produces 801 BHP and 102 kgm of torque, making it the most potent Urus to date. Lamborghini says the extra performance, combined with an improved power-to-weight ratio of 3 kg per HP, allows the SUV to sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.3 seconds, reach 200 kmph in 10.8 seconds and continue all the way to a top speed of 312 kmph.
While the additional power grabs headlines, Lamborghini has spent just as much time improving the way the Urus behaves through corners. The biggest mechanical upgrade comes in the form of the new AURA dual-chamber air suspension, making its debut on the Urus range. The system reduces body roll by as much as 55 per cent during spirited driving while also cutting cabin vibrations by 25% compared to the previous Urus Performante.
Further sharpening the driving experience is a new six-degrees-of-freedom sensor positioned close to the vehicle’s centre of gravity. Working alongside Lamborghini’s Integrated Power Brake system, it constantly monitors the vehicle’s movements to improve braking performance, traction and stability. The system delivers faster responses, increases braking force and allows the electronics to react proactively rather than waiting for the car to lose grip.
The visual changes are equally purposeful. Extensive use of exposed carbon fibre helps reduce weight while also improving airflow around the SUV. The new bonnet features functional S-Duct air channels that aid cooling, while redesigned front intakes, wider wheel arches, a larger rear diffuser and twin carbon fibre spoilers all contribute to increased downforce and improved aerodynamic efficiency. Lamborghini claims the new model generates 23 per cent more downforce than the Urus SE while reducing aerodynamic drag by three per cent.
Inside, the cabin retains the familiar fighter jet-inspired layout but introduces a more focused design. A new 12.3-inch infotainment display runs updated software inspired by the Revuelto, accompanied by a matching digital instrument cluster. The cabin also receives fresh upholstery finished in Lamborghini’s CorsaTex microfibre material, contrasting red highlights and additional carbon fibre trim to emphasise the Performante’s sporting intent.
The Urus SE Performante also adds a dedicated Rally mode to its repertoire of driving settings, joining Strada, Sport, Corsa and EV modes. Lamborghini says the new calibration has been developed specifically for loose surfaces, allowing the SUV to exploit its all-wheel drive system with greater confidence away from tarmac. Meanwhile, EV mode allows the Urus to travel for more than 60 kilometres on electric power alone at speeds of over 130 kmph.
Another highlight is the new titanium Akrapovič exhaust, fitted as standard. Aside from saving around 10 kg, Lamborghini says the revised system produces a richer soundtrack with a deeper tone and a more pronounced character across the various driving modes. Combined with revised software calibration, the exhaust is designed to make the hybrid Urus feel just as emotional as its purely combustion-powered predecessors.
With the Urus SE Performante, Lamborghini has taken an already formidable Super SUV and dialled everything up another notch. It is quicker, lighter, more technologically advanced and even more capable than before, yet still retains the practicality that has made the Urus one of the brand’s biggest success stories. Whether carving through mountain roads, tackling a circuit or simply cruising through the city, Lamborghini believes this is the ultimate expression of the Super SUV formula.
