Lamborghini has unveiled its latest super SUV in the form of the plug-in hybrid Urus SE Performante. It’s powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, paired with a permanent-magnet electric motor.
That translates to the highest combined system output ever achieved in the model’s history. Those numbers are an insane 605.5kW and 1000Nm. It’s paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission and a sophisticated all-wheel drive system.
An electronically controlled central clutch works continuously in coordination with a self-locking rear differential, enabling variable torque distribution capable of delivering on-demand oversteer.
A new titanium exhaust system developed by Lamborghini in collaboration with Akrapovič features, and delivers not only a unique sound (thanks to different diameter pipes and resonator tuning), but lowers weight by 10kg.
Hardware aside, a software calibration works with specific drive modes (more on those in a moment) to deliver different levels of noise. In an Australian exclusive, Exhaust Notes Australia was able to sit down with Urus product line director Stefano Cossalter.
“We’re saying this is the bad brother of the Urus SE,” he said of its much “angrier” performance. It is after all, the fastest Super SUV in the world, with a 0–100km/h sprint achieved in 3.3 seconds, 0–200km/h in 10.8 seconds, and a top speed of 312km/h.
Even the rubber on the the new 23-inch wheels (which feature a complex intersecting Y-spoke design, and are a nod to its performance-oriented character) has been specifically engineered to eek the best performance possible out of the Performante.
“We took exactly the same technology we’re using in the Revuelto [for tyres] and ported it into the Urus SE Performante,” Mr Cossalter said. Like the previous Urus S and its high performance sibling, the SE is expected to share the market with the new model.
“It’s the next step in the evolution of the Urus SE in the direction of sportiness, but the Urus SE will stay in the market. The two cars will exist in the market, like we did in the past.”
Mr Cossalter said he was expecting a 60:40 split between the standard Urus SE and the Performante. The latter’s arrival also reenforces the brand’s previous announcement that it will no longer pursue a fully electric future.
It’s a change that sets the brand apart of the likes of Ferrari, with its unique Luce offering. “We believe the technology [for a full EV], as of today is not mature enough to provide the kind of performance and emotionality a super sports car has to deliver,” he said.
“Our strategy is to go full hybrid as long as we can, in order to keep the emotionality of the ICE engine and combine it with a lot of sportiness out of the electric motor,” he added, at the same time confirming that the next iteration of its vehicles will continue the trend.
“Our cars are going to be hybrid for the next generation, including the Urus.”
The design of the Urus SE Performante was developed around the concept of “bold sportiness” and that kicks off with the new front end. Extensive use of carbon-fiber elements in the bodywork include a new hood and front and rear bumpers.
The hood incorporates a central power dome (the pronounced hood bulge) that recalls Lamborghini heritage. The omega-shaped graphic signature and redesigned air intakes emphasize width and road presence.
At the rear, a new spoiler and diffuser amplify the perception of width and sportiness. The surfaces also introduce iconic stylistic references, such as hexagonal geometries inspired by the Countach. There’s even a new colour, Giallo Crius. It joins more than 140 choices.
The Urus SE Performante also scores the AURA dual-chamber air suspension system, which halves body roll and reduces vibration by 25 per cent. The interior reflects the same dual soul of the vehicle, with a sportier, more driver-focused layout.
Building on the “Feel like a Pilot” concept, a key element of Lamborghini DNA. At the center of the dashboard, a new 12.3-inch screen has been installed. It features an improved interface, with updated graphics inspired by Revuelto.
Redesigned air vents, Y-shaped anodized aluminum details, and new upholstery for the panels, seats, and dashboard are paired with a new aviation-inspired mechanical button panel. The driver benefits from a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Model-specific telemetry is included. The Urus SE Performante gets its own unique steering wheel. On the road, the Lamborghini benefits from a 6D sensor and integrated power braking. This technology goes beyond simple data acquisition too.
Instead, it forms part of an ecosystem that also includes virtual sensors and predictive logic. The system is capable of estimating in real time, key parameters such as tire grip, actual vehicle speed, and body attitude angle.
It can then adjust the vehicle dynamics accordingly. At the same time, the synergy between the 6D sensor and the IPB extends to the traction and integrated vehicle control for lateral stability. Torque delivery and brake pressure are also managed smoothly.
The suspension and vertical dynamics management system of the new Urus SE Performante represents the pinnacle of technological innovation, headlined by its 2K2V dual-chamber air suspension. It allows for targeted variation of axle stiffness.
This can be adjusted according to each driving mode and style, significantly expanding the operating range between comfort and sportiness. The system is further enhanced by dual-valve dampers that allow variable damping forces during compression.
This enables smooth absorption of road irregularities, ensuring that body movements remain virtually imperceptible and comfortable for occupants. At the same time, the system guarantees optimal tyre contact with the road, even on degraded surfaces.
The vehicle is equipped with eight accelerometers: four sensors positioned on the wheel hubs and four on the chassis, providing the upgraded control unit with a continuous stream of data for predictive analysis of dynamic behavior.
Thanks to this onboard intelligence, the signals sent to the four corners of the vehicle instantly optimise the response to dynamic loads. There’s an array of drive modes to dial in just how you’d like your Lamborghini Urus SE Performante to behave as well.
Strada maximises the vehicle’s exceptional comfort, while Sport mode delivers the highest level of driving excitement. It enhances the car’s agility to easily manage power oversteer and drifting.
In Corsa mode, developed specifically for track driving, everything amps up to 11, making the vehicle extremely stable and responsive. Rally mode is new, and calibrated to deliver maximum driving enjoyment on dirt surfaces, gravel roads and off road terrain.
Thanks to the hybrid powertrain, there are four electric performance strategies. EV allows the car to travel more than 60km on the battery, while also reaching a top speed of over 130km/h.
Hybrid, selectable in Strada, delivers maximum efficiency, comfort, and the ideal balance between the combustion engine and electric motor. Recharge allows the battery to be recharged up to 80 per cent while maintaining optimal performance.
Performance is designed for drivers who want to fully experience the capabilities of Urus, and is selectable in any drive mode. Production of the new Urus SE Performante will commence in late 2026, before cars arrive in customer hands in March 2027.
For more information, contact your local Lamborghini dealership. To see the 2027 Lamborghini Urus SE Performante in beautiful 4K, visit our YouTube channel.
