Lamborghini Huracan: OFFICIAL

Fri, 20 Dec 2013

It’s always an event to see the arrival of a real new model from Lamborghini – rather than a tititavtion of an existing model – and the reveal of the Lamborghini Gallardo’s replacement is even more joyous as it brings to an end the daft attempt at a viral tease Lamborghini embarked on with the Hexagon Project.

So here we have it – the Lamborghini Huracan LP-6104 – with styling that evolves to be more flowing – and more like the Aventador – all-wheel-drive and 602bhp from its 5.2 litre V10.

Underpinning the Huracan is a new platform – that will also underpin the next Audi R8 – mixing aluminium and carbon fibre but, unlike the McLaren 12C, doesn’t make use of a carbon fibre monocoque.

Surprisingly, the Huracan actually weighs a bit more than the Gallardo – despite its carbon fibre and aluminium – but that probably has much to do with the higher quality of construction, fixtures and fittings – and new technology – than any inherent weight in the chassis or body.

But even though the Huracan weighs a few pounds more than the Gallardo, it’s a lot quicker.

The naturally aspirated V10 behind your head delivers 602 bhp at 8250 rpm with 413lb/ft of torque, enough to give a top speed of over 200 mph and 0-62 mph in just 3.2 seconds (and 124 mph in 9.9 seconds) and with better official economy than the Gallardo with 22.6 mpg and 351g/km emissions.

Lamborghini has also fitted the Huracan with a standard 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox (which gtes a Porsche-like moniker – LDF for Lamborghini Doppia Frizione), a variation on the new dual-clutch ‘box in the R8. It’s a much better auto ‘box than the Gallardo ever had and it seems to sound the death knell for a manual ‘box in the Huracan.

As you’d expect, the new LDF ‘box sends power to all four wheels with a choice of three modes - Strada, Sport and Corsa – depending on your mood and where you’re driving, and sets up mapping for both the engine and gearbox for optimum performance.

It looks like carbon ceramic brakes are part of the standard package, with Dynamic Steering a cost option.

Inside, the Huracan brings Lamborghini’s entry-level model in to the 21st century with high-quality Nappa leather and Alcantara, with a big 12.3″ infotainment screen, lots of modern multimedia tech and options to enhance comfort and enjoyment.

The Lamborghini Huracan will go in to production in Spring 2014, but so far we have no prices. However, it seems likely the starting point will be around £175,000.

By Cars UK