One might question the rationale behind honing an SUV for racetrack prowess, a domain rarely explored by owners. Yet, for Lamborghini, the relentless pursuit of enhanced performance is ingrained in their DNA. Improving upon already exceptional vehicles is simply what they do. Buckle up and delve into our experience with the Lamborghini Urus Performante.
Taking an SUV to its limits on a high-speed racetrack might seem counterintuitive, but the Lamborghini Urus Performante is engineered precisely for such endeavors. During our time at Roebling Road Raceway’s nine challenging turns, the Urus Performante defied SUV conventions, delivering astonishing speed and agility.
The ease with which we achieved comfort pushing this SUV aggressively into corners was remarkable. Riding high, yet devouring straightaways with incredible pace, the Urus Performante inspires confidence and delivers exhilarating performance.
Compared to the original Urus we tested at Roebling five years prior, the Performante boasts significant aerodynamic enhancements. A redesigned front fascia with enlarged air intakes optimizes cooling and incorporates air curtains to channel airflow around the front wheels. A reshaped carbon fiber hood reduces drag, while a new front splitter, roofline wing, and revised hatch spoiler collectively amplify downforce.
Lamborghini Urus Performante Front Quarter View
Weight reduction and sharpened handling are achieved by replacing the standard air suspension with high-performance coil springs in the Urus Performante. This modification lowers the ride height by nearly an inch, contributing to a more grounded feel. While sharing a chassis platform with the Porsche Cayenne, the Urus distinguishes itself with a wheelbase approximately 4 inches longer. Extended carbon fiber wheel arches visually emphasize a wider track. Our test Performante arrived with optional 23-inch wheels and tires, and Lamborghini also provided 22-inch wheels fitted with bespoke Pirelli P Zero Trofeo Rs tires for track evaluation, which proved exceptionally grippy. Regardless of tire choice, cornering grip was consistently impressive.
Lamborghini Urus Performante Grille Close-Up
Power is abundant, emanating from a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 657 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. This formidable power is distributed to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission and active torque vectoring system. The exhaust system, crafted with titanium components, produces a captivating soundtrack at full throttle – a symphony of lightweight alloy and raw power.
Driving SUVs at insane speeds around a very fast race track may not sound like a good idea, but we’re here to tell you this Lamborghini Urus Performante is absolutely built for the job.
In our acceleration tests, the Urus Performante achieved a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 3.1 seconds. This is a half-second improvement over the original Urus. Launch control ensures optimal power delivery, adapting to available traction. While not branded with the “Thrust Mode” moniker found in the Huracan, the power delivery is relentless and consistent. On Roebling’s front straight, we clocked a quarter-mile time of 11.4 seconds at 121 mph.
Lamborghini Urus Performante Hood Detail
Gear shifts are executed with precision in automatic mode, and manual control is available via responsive paddle shifters. While perhaps not as substantial in feel as those in Lamborghini sports cars, the paddles offer smooth and rapid gear changes, even mid-corner. The Performante’s braking system proved to be a standout feature during our track testing. Subjected to intense use over three days, the brakes exhibited no fade or performance degradation, a remarkable feat considering the vehicle’s near 5,000-lb weight. The high-grip tires, however, transmitted every track imperfection during hard braking zones.
Lamborghini Urus Performante Side Profile View
The braking system is visually and functionally impressive, featuring massive 17.3-inch carbon-ceramic front discs with red 10-piston calipers, and 14.6-inch rotors at the rear. Beyond sheer capability, the Urus Performante’s most compelling attribute on the track was its sheer driving enjoyment. Unlike many high-performance SUVs that can feel like a chore on track, the Urus Performante was engaging and fun, demanding focus yet remaining remarkably comfortable.
Lamborghini Urus Performante Rear Quarter View
Government fuel economy ratings are 14 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 16 mpg combined.
The price tag reflects its exclusivity and performance: starting at $273,880. Despite the cost, the desire to own one is undeniable.
While engineered for track excellence, the Lamborghini Urus Performante excels as an all-around SUV, capable even on unpaved surfaces. Beneath the surface, German engineering is present, but the driving experience is distinctly Italian – a true international driving sensation.
Lamborghini Urus Performante Rear Badge Detail
Specifications
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Engine: 4.0-liter Twin-Turbo V8
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Horsepower: 657
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0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds
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EPA: 14 City | 19 Highway | 16 Combined
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Transmission: 8-speed automatic
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Torque: 627 lb-ft.
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1/4 Mile: 11.4 seconds and 121 mph
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Starting Price: $273,880
