The Performante Returns, Electrified
Lamborghini has officially unveiled the Urus SE Performante, reviving a nameplate synonymous with hardcore performance. While the previous Performante was a purely combustion-driven beast, this new iteration is based on the plug-in hybrid Urus SE. It
combines the familiar twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 with an electric motor to create the most powerful Urus ever produced. This isn't just about adding power; it's a comprehensive evolution, sharpening the SUV that arguably created its own segment.
Power And Fury By The Numbers
The headline figures are staggering. The hybrid powertrain now delivers a combined output of over 800 horsepower (812 CV, to be precise) and a massive 1000 Nm of torque. This represents a significant jump over both the standard Urus SE and the previous non-hybrid Performante. The result is a blistering 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.3 seconds, a tenth quicker than the standard SE, on its way to a top speed of 312 km/h. The eight-speed automatic transmission has also been recalibrated for faster, more responsive shifts to handle the extra output. Despite the hybrid components, the new model can also travel over 30 miles on electric power alone, offering a silent, zero-emission option for city driving.
Sculpted By The Wind
The phrase "sharper aerodynamics" is not just marketing speak. The SE Performante features a host of new, functional carbon-fibre components designed to manage airflow and increase stability. These include a new front bumper, a more aggressive front splitter, and a vented carbon-fibre hood. At the rear, a new roof-mounted wing works with a larger lip spoiler and the biggest rear diffuser ever fitted to a Urus. This combination reduces aerodynamic drag by 3% compared to the standard SE while increasing overall downforce by a significant margin, providing more stability at high speeds. Even the cooling has been enhanced, with new ducts channeling air more effectively to the brakes.
Lighter, Smarter, Louder
Engineers focused heavily on reducing weight to counteract the mass of the hybrid system. Through extensive use of carbon fibre for the hood, roof, and bumpers, and a new lightweight titanium Akrapovič exhaust system, the SE Performante sheds 32 kg compared to the standard Urus SE. The new exhaust is not just lighter; it's designed to deliver a more aggressive and engaging sound. The chassis receives a new dual-chamber air suspension system that drastically reduces body roll and vibrations, improving both comfort and handling precision. Inside, the 'feel like a pilot' philosophy continues with updated digital displays, new trim materials like CorsaTex microfiber, and a steering wheel featuring a carbon fibre bezel.
