Before the dieselgate scandal, VW had set out to be the biggest automaker in terms of volumes in the world by the end of the decade. It seems that the automaker had plans to expand production of all its brands including the once rare Lamborghinis. Few years after acquiring Lamborghini, VW has expanded production of Lamborghini’s entry-level model to the extent that in just 3 years the model (I am talking about the Huracan) has seen its production eclipse total Lamborghinis produced before 1999. That is not all, Lamborghini exclusivity is set to grow even thinner once the automaker introduces the Lamborghini Urus, the automaker’s first ever SUV that will also be produced in large numbers; 1000 units in 2018 alone with the number shooting up to 3,500 units in 2019. The latest version of the Huracan, Christened the “Huracan Performante” is the most potent of the lineup yet. The 2018 Lamborghini Huracan Performante takes over from the Huracan Gallardo Superleggera.
2018 Lamborghini Huracan Performante Exterior
The 2018 Lamborghini Huracan Performante is lighter than the standard Huracans. This is because its body is made of aluminum and carbon fiber including Forged Composite that enabled designers to craft complex geometrical shapes that has enabled the model to be very aerodynamic. Structural components of this forged composite are applied on the model’s engine hood, front and rear spoilers, rear bumper as well as on the diffuser. Due to this, the model is 40 kg lighter than standard Huracans. This is one of the factors that enabled the Performante to become the fastest production car at the Nurburgring circuit with a time of 6: 52: 01.
The Performante features Aerodinamica Lamborghini Attiva (ALA), a new system of aerodynamics that features a front spoiler in a carbon forged frame that also features active flaps on its top exterior surface while the rear bonnet is crafted around the model’s air ducts. Lamborghini’s Piattaforma Inerziale (LPI) works in sync with the ALA to optimize the vehicle’s aerodynamics. The rear end has four air ducts where two of the ducts are open throughout for exhaust cooling and under-hood ventilation. The external ducts are connected to the wing.
Overall, the model’s design is aggressive and menacing than that of the car it replaces. The front fascia looks very sharp. The front bumper is devoid of grills and you can see the front spoiler in Forged Composite. The rear is characterized by a gigantic wing and high-mounted exhaust tips which look inspired by those of extreme sports motorcycles. The diffuser is finished in matte black like that of the Super Trofeo.
To further distinguish the Performante from other Huracans, the model rides on Narvi 20-inch forged wheels with a bronze paint finish; there is an option for 20-inch Loge forged rollers with central lock. The wheels are wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Corsa rubber with an option for Pirelli Trofeo R tires.
In terms of size, the Performante is 177.4 inches long, 75.7 inches wide, 45.9 inches tall and has a wheelbase of 103.1 inches. The vehicle weighs 3,350 lbs.
Interior
The cabin is a reflection of the model’s exterior styling. The models door handles, air vents and paddles are made of Carbon Composite to help reduce the model’s curb weight. There are also seats made from Carbon Composite if you want to take the weight saving game to the extreme. The coupe accommodates two passengers and has a cargo carrying capacity of only 4 cubic feet.
The dashboard display has a unique ALA graphic that displays how the vehicle’s ALA is working including aero vectoring and details on the vehicle’s drag and down-force. Drivers can configure information on the cockpit display according to the driving mode selected. The available driving modes are Strada, Sport and Corsa. The display system supports Apple CarPlay and other iPhone apps such as the automaker’s telemetry system that enables the driver to record and replay his time at the tracks to review later on.
Engine and performance
As said earlier, the Performante is powered by the most potent V-10 mill ever to come out of a Lamborghini factory. The 5.2 L, V-10 is good for 640 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. The engine is backed by excellent engine fluid dynamics and an enhanced intake system that has boosted the engine’s responsiveness. The engine is connected to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox with a manual shifting mode. The transmission channels power to all wheels. To aid the engine is the automaker’s 5th generation Haldex system that works in harmony with the ALA system.
As a result of the mechanical upgrades and lighter curb weight, the Performante is able to complete a 0-60 mph sprint in 2.4 seconds and complete a quarter mile in 10.2 seconds. The model has a top speed of 202 mph. The V-10 mill is EPA rated at 14 mpg in the city, 21 mpg on the highway and 17 mpg on combined drives.
Price and release date
Lamborghini is currently accepting orders for the Performante with deliveries scheduled later this summer. The supercar has a starting price of €195,040 or $218,000 in current exchange rates. Considering the more exclusive Lamborghinis cost almost 4 times this price, the Performante is a good buy in my own opinion. The model’s aerodynamics, handling as well as its sheer power and beauty make it worth every penny.
