Lamborghini Urus SE Performante revealed as its fastest, most powerful SUV yet

Lamborghini has revealed the Lamborghini Urus SE Performante, a new flagship version of its plug-in hybrid Super SUV that combines more power, less weight, improved aerodynamics, and a new suspension system to become the fastest Urus ever built.

The new model sits above the existing Urus SE and becomes the halo of the Italian brand's SUV lineup, producing a combined 596kW of power and 1000Nm of torque from its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine and electric motor.

That's 146PS and 150Nm more than the previous Urus Performante, while extensive use of carbon fibre cuts 32kg from the vehicle's weight, though the SUV still tips the scales at 2,473 kg.

Lamborghini claims the Urus SE Performante can sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.3 seconds, reach 200km/h in 10.8 seconds, and continue to a top speed of 312km/h, making it the fastest Urus to date.

The plug-in hybrid system also allows more than 60km of electric-only driving from its 25.9kWh battery pack.

Lamborghini says the new flagship introduces several technologies not previously offered in the Urus lineup, including its AURA dual-chamber air suspension system.

The setup is claimed to reduce body roll by 55 per cent during 'spirited driving' while cutting cabin vibrations by 25 per cent compared with the previous Urus Performante.

A new six-degrees-of-freedom sensor, first seen on Lamborghini's Fenomeno concept, also works with an upgraded Integrated Power Brake system to improve braking, handling, and stability.

According to Lamborghini, maximum braking performance has increased by 10 per cent, with response times improving by 12 per cent. The company also claims the vehicle can stop from 200km/h in less than 130 metres.

Aerodynamics have also received significant attention. The Urus SE Performante features a new carbon-fibre bonnet with integrated S-Duct air channels, redesigned front and rear bumpers, enlarged cooling ducts, and dual rear spoilers.

Lamborghini says drag has been reduced by 3.0 per cent compared with the Urus SE while downforce has increased by 23 per cent.

The exterior receives the most extensive use of exposed carbon fibre ever seen on a Urus, including the bonnet, wheel arch extensions, side skirts, and rear diffuser.

New 23-inch alloy wheels and a larger rear diffuser further distinguish the Performante from the standard SE.

Inside, the SUV adopts a more driver-focused cabin with new upholstery featuring CorsaTex by Dinamica microfibre, unique Y-shaped styling elements, and contrasting red accents.

A revised 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen features updated graphics inspired by the Revuelto, while the steering wheel receives an exclusive carbon-fibre bezel.

The Urus SE Performante also introduces a new Rally drive mode alongside Strada, Sport, Corsa, and EV settings.

The Rally mode has been specifically tuned for loose-surface driving, while the hybrid system offers four Electric Performance Strategies, allowing drivers to prioritise electric driving, battery charging, efficiency, or maximum performance.

Lamborghini has also developed a new titanium Akrapovič exhaust system as standard equipment.

The lighter exhaust is claimed to save more than 10kg while delivering a louder, more distinctive soundtrack, with revised software tuning producing different exhaust characteristics depending on the selected drive mode.

Lamborghini has not yet announced New Zealand pricing or availability for the Urus SE Performante, though as the flagship model of the brand's best-seller, you can bet it will be available to Kiwi customers.