KUALA LUMPUR: The Lamborghini Urus SE is launched today in Malaysia following its unveiling in Japan and Thailand last month.
The first hybrid plug-in (PHEV) version of the Lamborghini Super SUV, now open for booking, is priced from RM1,028,000 (before taxes, duties and customisation.)
For Lamborghini, this is its second PHEV after the Revuelto.
The Urus SE is on a world tour of 12 cities and 11 countries around the world. The last stop was Tokyo before the car arrived here.
The new model features a fresh design, optimised aerodynamics, advanced on-board technology, and a much more powerful hybrid powertrain. than the Urus S or Urus Performante.
The twin-turbo 4.0 V8 engine has been redesigned to work seamlessly with the electric powertrain, developing 611hp and 800Nm of torque. Combined with the electric powertrain's 189hp and 483Nm of torque, the system achieves a total output of 789hp and 950 Nm of torque.
A 25.9-kWh lithium-ion battery supports over 60km of EV mode travel.
Especially developed and calibrated for urban driving, the Electric Drive mode enables the Urus SE to reach a top speed of over 130kph.
Above this speed, the V8 engine automatically supports the electric motor, likewise if the torque demands exceed the maximum available from the electric motor.
As the name suggests, the Urus SE builds on the Urus S, enhancing comfort, performance, efficiency, emissions, and driving pleasure.
The hybrid system combines a thermal and electric engine, significantly boosting torque and power while reducing emissions by 80%.
Lamborghini said the Urus SE offers an exceptional driving experience, thanks to its plug-in hybrid system that improves vehicle performance across various surfaces and conditions.
A new centrally-located longitudinal electric torque vectoring system and an electronic rear differential enhance the vehicle's dynamics, providing maximum traction and agility.
These systems ensure optimal performance in all driving modes and conditions, whether on racetracks, desert dunes, ice, or dirt. The Urus SE accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 3.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 312kph, making it the fastest production car in its segment.
The design of the Urus SE has been updated to optimise aerodynamic efficiency, featuring a new hood design, matrix LED headlights, and a redesigned rear with Gallardo-inspired elements.
The aerodynamic improvements include new under-body air vents and revamped air ducts, which enhance cooling for mechanical and engine components by 15% and improve braking system air cooling by 30%.
The interior of the Urus SE showcases Lamborghini's "feel like a pilot" design, with updates throughout the dashboard and a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display.
The infotainment system includes a dedicated telemetry system and new displays related to the driving assistance system.
Customisation options for the Urus SE are extensive, with over 100 body colour options and a range of interior combinations.
Four new Electric Performance Strategies (EPS) have been introduced, adding to the existing six driving modes. These include EV Drive, Hybrid, Performance, and Recharge options, offering a total of 11 driving modes.
The air suspension system adjusts ground clearance depending on the selected mode, enhancing comfort, sportiness, and track performance.
“The Urus was an important catalyst for the brand when it first joined our product portfolio back in 2017. Today, the Super SUV has firmly established itself as our best seller, not just in the Asia Pacific region, but across all markets worldwide," said Lamborghini Asia Pacific director Francesco Scardaoni.
Scardaoni outlining Lamborghini's roadmap.
"The new Urus SE sets the stage for an era of Super SUV evolution in the electrification phase, and it is also a significant milestone for the brand."
He said Lamborghini expects to phase out the combustion-engine only Urus in favour of the hybrid version in line with its brand strategy to electrify its line-up. Its first fully electric car, the Lanzador, will only arrive in 2028.
Unlike Ferrari, Lamborghini is taking its time to electrify its products. The rationale is underscored by a famous quote from its CEO Stephan Winkelmann: "We strongly believe that we don't need to be the first one, but when we come we have to be the best one."
On some Chinese car makers entering the supercar space, Scardaoni said Lamborghini is occupying a niche segment that is different and it doesn't see a threat from them in the foreseeable future.
He, however, said that as Lamborghini transitions towards full electrification, it would stay abreast of innovations coming out of China, which has emerged as the world leader in electric vehicles.
A Huracan Sterrato was also showcased on the sidelines of the Urus SE launch.
Huracan Sterrato
