Lamborghini Urus SUV concept: Unconventional offroader
Lamborghini finally takes the wraps off its much rumored SUV during Auto China 2012 in Beijing. The Urus concept points the direction for a production SUV in the Lamborghini line-up.
Following the example of Porsche, which used its Cayenne SUV to create more stable revenue, Lamborghini wants to add an SUV as a third model in its lineup. At the Beijing International auto show, Lamborghini finally revealed what its SUV will look like.
Using the sharp edges of its current design language, the Urus concept presents a very unique look for a vehicle designed to drive offroad. Although about 16 feet in length, similar to the Cayenne, the Urus concept is only about 5.5 feet high, making it more like a raised sedan.
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The concept does not appear to be based on any existing Lamborghini, looking like it would use a front engine design. Lamborghini targets 600 horsepower for the output, but does not specify the engine configuration. That high output suggests an engine possibly sourced from Bentley, a sister company under Volkswagen ownership. Bentley came out with its own attempt at an SUV, the EXP 9 F concept, at the Geneva auto show this year, but it was a critical flop.
Lamborghini also specifies a dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel-drive for the Urus, both technologies already existing in the company's model line-up. The ride height is also adjustable, but the concept appears to get most of its ground clearance from the 24-inch wheels.
Despite the high power output, Lamborghini says the Urus would get the lowest carbon dioxide emissions in its class due to lightweight construction. A new material called Forged Composite helps keep the weight down.
The name, Urus, comes from a prehistoric ancestor to our modern cattle, and maintains Lamborghini's naming convention related to bulls.
Although there is a lot unrealized about the Urus concept, such as the engine, and many concept touches, such as cameras instead of side view mirrors, Lamborghini is very likely to bring some version of this vehicle to market. A two car model line-up consisting of exotic sport cars leads to very shaky revenue. An SUV, which Lamborghini says would be a car "for everyday use, for the family, for leisure pursuits with friends," gives customers of the brand, who probably already own an SUV from another brand, a new option.
Let us know what you think of how the Urus looks in the comments section below.