As a bold declaration of the brand’s future, the Lamborghini’s Urus SE is more than a new addition to the brand’s SUV line-up. Revealed at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit last month, this plug-in hybrid SUV merges electrification with Lamborghini’s signature performance, proving that power and sustainability can share the same exhilarating ride.
When Lamborghini showcased the Urus SE at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit last month, it was more than another fancy car reveal; it was a firm declaration of where the brand is headed. This plug-in hybrid SUV introduces Lamborghini’s electrification strategy without compromising its legendary performance ethos. During the event, we viewed the Urus SE up close and listened to Lamborghini’s CEO outline the company’s vision – embracing hybrid technology while maintaining the pulse-pounding experience the brand is known for.
EVOLVED DESIGN, FAMILIAR AGGRESSION
The Lamborghini Urus SE finds its place between the Urus S and the Performante, blending luxury with high-performance efficiency. Priced from R4,875,000 in South Africa (with the option to extend the standard three-year/100,000 km maintenance plan to five years for an additional R200,000), it stands as a bridge between conventional and electrified performance.
Though unmistakably a Lamborghini, the Urus SE refines its aggressive SUV stance with several key updates. A reworked front grille, sharper LED headlights, and hybrid-specific badging give the SE a distinctive edge. These design tweaks do more than enhance its visual appeal – they improve aerodynamics, ensuring that the Urus SE remains both functional and fierce.
ELECTRIFIED POWER WITHOUT SACRIFICE
At the heart of the Urus SE is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 paired with an electric motor, combining to deliver an impressive 588 kW and 950 Nm of torque. The V8 itself produces 456 kW and 800 Nm, while the electric motor adds 141 kW and 483 Nm. This allows the Urus SE to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 312 km/h – performance figures that maintain its supercar heritage.
Supporting this performance is a 25.9 kWh lithium-ion battery, which offers an electric range exceeding 60 km. While not extensive, it is good enough for short daily commutes, ensuring practicality without compromising excitement.
Integrated with the eight-speed automatic transmission, the electric motor smoothes out transitions between petrol and electric modes, delivering a seamless and exhilarating drive.
LAMBORGHINI’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Speaking with Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann via online conference, it was clear the Urus SE is central to Lamborghini’s evolving vision. This isn’t merely about joining the hybrid trend, but about redefining what performance means for the brand. By integrating hybrid power into its line-up, Lamborghini is crafting a future where power and sustainability coexist, creating a new benchmark for high-performance SUVs.
Scheduled to arrive locally in early 2025, the Urus SE is a significant step forward for Lamborghini. It introduces a powertrain that balances extreme performance with reduced environmental impact, positioning the brand for long-term innovation. The Urus SE is a testament to Lamborghini’s ability to adapt while keeping the emotional connection with drivers intact.
LAST WORD
For South African enthusiasts, the Urus SE represents a turning point. Its hybrid system is not a compromise but an enhancement that blends the visceral thrill of a roaring V8 with the sophistication of electric propulsion.
Lamborghini’s pursuit of progress is embodied in this SUV. The Urus SE doesn’t just meet expectations; it redefines them, bringing the brand into a new era without losing sight of its roots. From the moment it was revealed at Kyalami, the Urus SE made one thing clear – Lamborghini’s future is as thrilling as its past.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © LAMBORGHINI
