The Lamborghini Urus S. Even the name itself evokes a sense of power and prestige. In a world dominated by domesticated SUVs, the Urus S dares to ask: can a Lamborghini SUV truly capture the spirit of the raging bull? While the brand’s heritage is rooted in ferocious supercars named after legendary fighting bulls, the Urus S steps into a different arena – the realm of high-performance luxury SUVs. Sharing some DNA with its Audi cousins, the Urus S carves its own path, promising a blend of everyday usability and exhilarating Lamborghini performance. But how successfully does it tame the bull for daily driving while still unleashing its wild side when provoked? We spent a week behind the wheel of the Urus S to discover if this Italian SUV truly earns its Lamborghini badge.
The Potent Powertrain: Heart of the Urus S
Lamborghini Urus S Engine Bay Revealing Twin-Turbo V8
At the core of the Lamborghini Urus S lies a beastly engine – a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This powerplant is the undisputed star of the show. In a market saturated with SUVs and crossovers, the Urus S distinguishes itself with this potent heart, delivering a staggering 657 horsepower (489 kW) and 627 lb-ft (849 Nm) of torque. These figures are not just numbers; they are a clear declaration of the Urus S’s pedigree, setting it apart from its Audi or Porsche relatives that share underlying components. Lamborghini engineers meticulously rework the engine, applying unique tuning to unlock this enhanced power output. Beyond the engine itself, the Urus S features a bespoke all-wheel-drive system and gearbox calibration, meticulously engineered to impart a distinct Lamborghini character.
To tailor the driving experience, the Urus S offers a spectrum of driving modes. Strada mode is designed for everyday driving, prioritizing comfort and refinement. Sport mode sharpens the vehicle’s responses for spirited on-road driving. For off-road adventures, Sabbia (sand) and Terra (off-road terrain) modes optimize traction and control. Neve mode is engineered for snowy and icy conditions, ensuring stability. Finally, Corsa mode unleashes the full potential of the Urus S for track driving, transforming it into a different animal altogether.
Lamborghini’s official fuel economy figures for the Urus S are 14 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 16 mpg combined. However, real-world driving, especially with a penchant for exploring the performance capabilities, can yield significantly lower numbers. Our testing revealed a meager 8 mpg, highlighting the trade-off for the exhilarating performance on tap. Even the vehicle’s long-term average, according to the onboard computer, hovered around 14 mpg, underscoring the Urus S’s thirst for fuel when driven with enthusiasm.
Stepping Inside the Lamborghini Cabin
The interior of the Urus S offers a blend of Lamborghini flair and luxurious appointments. While sharing some infotainment technology with Audi, the cabin distinctly embodies the Italian marque’s design language and material choices.
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Featuring Leather Seats and Central Console
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Detailing Carbon Fiber and Metal Accents
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Displaying Drive Mode Selector and Start Button
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Showcasing Leather Dashboard and Stitching
Lamborghini Urus S Interior with Close-Up of Shift Paddles
Lamborghini Urus S Interior with Bang & Olufsen Speaker Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Interior with Rear Seats and Climate Controls
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Displaying Cargo Space
Lamborghini Urus S Interior with Close-Up of Reverse Gear Lever
Lamborghini Urus S Interior with Ambient Lighting Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Interior with Panoramic Sunroof View
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Showcasing Lamborghini Badge on Headrest
True to Lamborghini tradition, some controls are intentionally unconventional. The drive mode selector, for instance, cycles only in one direction, requiring drivers to navigate through all modes to return to a previous setting. The prominent lever in the center console, resembling an aircraft throttle, is solely dedicated to engaging reverse gear – a quirky yet distinctive Lamborghini touch. Customizing drive settings requires accessing the “Ego” mode, located on the far side of the console. These eccentricities, while perhaps less ergonomically conventional, are part of Lamborghini’s charm, echoing the spirit of iconic models like the Espada and Diablo.
Beyond the idiosyncratic controls, the cabin is undeniably luxurious. Comfortable seats, excellent visibility, and premium materials are abundant. Real metal, carbon fiber, and supple leather adorn the interior surfaces. The metal shift paddles feel substantial and engaging to use, and their function in engaging drive mode is a welcome sporty touch.
The infotainment system and digital gauge cluster, while Lamborghini-skinned versions of Audi’s systems, are responsive and user-friendly. However, the glossy piano-black plastic surrounding the lower climate control screen feels somewhat out of place in a vehicle of this price point.
The optional Bang & Olufsen sound system elevates the auditory experience with 1,700 watts and 21 speakers. Upon startup, dashboard speakers theatrically rise, adding a touch of spectacle. Y-shaped speaker grilles further enhance the system’s visual appeal.
Rear seating configurations offer a choice between a three-person bench or two individual bucket seats. Even taller passengers will find reasonable comfort in the rear, with ample legroom, though headroom might be slightly limited for very tall occupants. Rear passengers also benefit from dedicated climate control zones and heated seats. The rear seats can be folded down to expand cargo capacity. The standard cargo area provides 22 cubic feet of space, less than some mainstream SUVs, but sufficient for everyday needs. Additional storage compartments are located in the center consoles and under the front console, offering practical solutions for smaller items.
Driving Dynamics: From City Cruiser to Corner Carver
Los Angeles, with its dense traffic and bustling streets, might seem an unlikely playground for a Lamborghini. Yet, it was in this urban jungle that we experienced the duality of the Urus S. In city driving, the Urus S reveals its surprisingly domesticated side. Comfortable, quiet, and even offering massage seats, it navigates traffic with ease. The abundance of power remains largely untapped in stop-and-go conditions, but the sheer presence and luxurious cabin make even mundane commutes feel special. No other Lamborghini model offers the same level of passenger capacity and everyday usability.
However, the Urus S in its standard driving modes can feel somewhat restrained, lacking the visceral Lamborghini drama one might expect. The styling is undeniably striking, and the interior is opulent, but the overall driving experience leans towards refined rather than raw excitement.
To truly awaken the “raging bull” within, Corsa (Race) mode is the key. Engaging Corsa mode transforms the Urus S’s character. Safety systems become less intrusive, throttle response sharpens dramatically, steering firms up, and fuel consumption skyrockets. This mode is not for the faint of heart or for everyday driving, but it unlocks a thrilling and engaging driving experience.
Lamborghini Urus S Cornering Performance in Corsa Mode
In Corsa mode, the Urus S feels alive and playful, demanding attention and rewarding skillful driving. While it might not fully replicate the raw intensity of classic Lamborghinis like the Diablo or Countach, it delivers a compelling blend of performance and practicality. The exhaust note becomes significantly more aggressive, gearshifts are rapid and firm, and the throttle becomes incredibly responsive. On winding roads, the Urus S belies its size and weight, feeling surprisingly agile and composed. Body control in corners is exceptional, inspiring confidence to push harder.
Straight-line acceleration and corner exits are nothing short of breathtaking. The Urus S lunges forward with ferocity, and in Corsa mode, the all-wheel-drive system allows for a hint of rear-wheel slip, adding to the sense of drama. The sheer speed is addictive, requiring focus and quick reflexes to manage the rapid acceleration. Reaching 60 mph from a standstill takes a mere 3.2 seconds, a testament to the Urus S’s incredible performance.
The soundtrack accompanying this performance is equally captivating. Distinctly different from its Porsche Cayenne cousin, the Urus S’s exhaust note is boisterous, edgy, and undeniably Lamborghini. It sounds fantastic at any throttle position, adding another layer of excitement to the driving experience.
The true genius of the Urus S lies in its ability to seamlessly transition between a comfortable and practical daily driver and a high-performance thrill machine. It can be a civilized family SUV during the week and a weekend corner-carving weapon when desired.
The Hyper-SUV Battlefield: Competition and Positioning
Lamborghini Urus S Alongside Aston Martin DBX and Audi RS Q8
The Lamborghini Urus S enters a competitive, albeit exclusive, segment of hyper-performance SUVs. It faces rivals within its own corporate family, including the Bentley Bentayga, Audi RS Q8, and Porsche Cayenne, as well as external competitors like the Aston Martin DBX and Rolls-Royce Cullinan. The Ferrari Purosangue occupies an even higher echelon in terms of price and exclusivity.
The choice among these ultra-luxury SUVs often boils down to personal preferences and priorities. Models like the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan prioritize ultimate comfort and opulence. The Aston Martin DBX and Audi RS Q8 strike a balance between performance and luxury, while the Porsche Cayenne is often considered the benchmark that established this segment.
The Ferrari Purosangue, with its naturally aspirated V12 and unique design, operates in a different price bracket and appeals to a different clientele. It’s not a direct rival to the Urus S in terms of price point.
The Lamborghini Urus S distinguishes itself through its striking Italian design, potent performance, and Lamborghini brand cachet. It offers a more visually dramatic and arguably more driver-focused experience than some of its competitors, while undercutting the price of ultra-luxury SUVs like the Cullinan and Purosangue. While practicality-focused buyers might gravitate towards the more understated Audi RS Q8, those seeking the attention and prestige of a Lamborghini SUV are unlikely to be deterred by the price premium.
Urus S: A Vital Infusion for Lamborghini’s Future
Lamborghini Urus S Front Profile Showcasing Aggressive Design
The Lamborghini Urus S, despite its SUV form factor, retains an athletic and engaging character. While purists might debate its place within the Lamborghini lineage, the market has spoken. The Urus has become a resounding success for Lamborghini, with production sold out well into the future.
The financial success of the Urus is crucial for Lamborghini’s long-term viability. It enables the brand to continue developing and producing enthusiast-focused supercars like the Huracan STO, Revuelto, and Temerario. The Urus acts as a financial engine, fueling Lamborghini’s passion for creating high-performance machines. Just as the Cayenne revitalized Porsche, the Urus is doing the same for Lamborghini. It’s a win-win scenario, allowing Lamborghini to thrive in a changing automotive landscape while staying true to its performance DNA.
Lamborghini Urus S Driving on Mountain Road
Lamborghini Urus S Rear View with Taillights Illuminated
Lamborghini Urus S Side Profile Highlighting Sporty Stance
Lamborghini Urus S Front Grille and Headlight Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Wheel and Brake Caliper Close-Up
Lamborghini Urus S Interior with Driver in Action
Lamborghini Urus S Dashboard and Controls View from Driver Seat
Lamborghini Urus S Rear Badge and Exhaust Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Interior with Panoramic Sunroof View
Lamborghini Urus S Interior with Ambient Lighting Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Start Button and Drive Mode Selector Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Carbon Fiber and Red Leather Accents
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Door Panel and Controls
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Seat Controls and Adjustments
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Bang & Olufsen Sound System Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Steering Wheel and Instrument Cluster View
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Infotainment System Display
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Climate Control Screen
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Reverse Gear Lever Close-Up
Lamborghini Urus S Exterior Front Three-Quarter View
Lamborghini Urus S Exterior Rear Three-Quarter View
Lamborghini Urus S Interior Center Console and Controls
Lamborghini Urus S Driving in Urban Environment
Lamborghini Urus S Dynamic Driving Shot on Open Road
Lamborghini Urus S Exterior Detailing Front Bumper and Air Intakes
Lamborghini Urus S Exterior Detailing Rear Diffuser and Quad Exhausts
Lamborghini Urus S Driving Through City Streets
Lamborghini Urus S Driving on Winding Coastal Road
Lamborghini Urus S Driving in Sunny Weather
Lamborghini Urus S Front Three-Quarter View Parked
Lamborghini Urus S Rear Three-Quarter View Parked
Lamborghini Urus S Side View Parked
Lamborghini Urus S Driving on Race Track in Corsa Mode
Lamborghini Urus S Cornering on Race Track
Lamborghini Urus S Braking Hard on Race Track
Lamborghini Urus S Accelerating on Race Track
Lamborghini Urus S Close-Up of Front Wheel and Carbon Ceramic Brakes
Lamborghini Urus S Close-Up of Rear Wheel and Caliper
Lamborghini Urus S Front Splitter and Air Intake Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Headlight and Daytime Running Light Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Taillight Design Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Exhaust System and Rear Diffuser Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Side Vent and Wheel Arch Detail
Lamborghini Urus S Lamborghini Logo on Hood
Lamborghini Urus S Lamborghini Script Badge on Rear
Lamborghini Urus S Front View Parked
Lamborghini Urus S Rear View Parked
Lamborghini Urus S Three-Quarter View Parked
