Lamborghini Temerario: A Close Look at the Huracan Successor

With its signature sharp, wedge-like design, there’s no mistaking a Lamborghini for anything else, and this remains true for the latest creation from the Italian marque: the Lamborghini Temerario. First revealed at the Monterey Car Week in August of the previous year, this successor to the Huracán has officially launched in India, priced at an ex-showroom cost of Rs 6 crore.

Lamborghini Temerario Powertrain and Performance

All-New Twin-Turbo V8 Engine Reaching 10,000 RPM

Departing from the previous model’s Audi/Lamborghini 5.2-litre naturally aspirated V10 engine, the Temerario features an innovative plug-in hybrid powertrain. This system incorporates a brand-new, in-house developed 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 alongside three electric motors. The overall power output is a remarkable 920hp, with the turbo-petrol engine contributing 800hp on its own. Utilizing a ‘hot-vee’ setup, where the turbochargers are installed between the cylinder banks, the engine can achieve revs up to 10,000 RPM, currently the highest for any production car V8 engine.

Three Electric Motors Yielding 299 HP Combined

Each of the three electric motors is rated at 150hp. One electric motor is located between the engine and the dual-clutch transmission, eliminating the need for an intermediate clutch, thereby effectively compensating for any turbo lag. This motor also functions as a starter motor and generator. The additional two electric motors reside on the front axle and significantly enhance the active torque vectoring, reacting much faster than traditional mechanical systems, thereby minimizing brake intervention for a more fluid driving experience. In fully electric mode, these two motors provide a total output of 190hp. Moreover, the Temerario introduces a drift mode, featuring three levels of yaw control.

Distinctive High-Pitched Sound from the Flat-Plane Crankshaft

Lamborghini has focused extensively on fine-tuning the engine sound, with exhaust routing and engine mounts specifically designed to enhance acoustic characteristics. The flat-plane crankshaft of the new V8 contributes to a memorable high-pitched wail. At the launch event, the engine was briefly started, and the initial feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

Lamborghini Temerario Interior and Features

All-Aluminium Chassis Enhances Cabin Space

The Temerario moves away from the carbon-fiber and aluminium construction of the Huracán, opting instead for an all-aluminium spaceframe that provides a 20% increase in torsional stiffness. This transition has led to a 46mm increase in legroom and a 34mm increase in headroom, which is particularly advantageous for drivers wearing helmets during track days. While seated, I noted a gap greater than five fingers between my head and the roof. Additionally, the front storage area is impressive for a supercar, with a 112-litre boot that can comfortably hold two cabin suitcases.

Interior Design Emphasizes Aviation Aesthetics

The interior of the Temerario features bold cuts and contours that create a futuristic aircraft-inspired ambiance. A dramatic red aviation-style flip-up toggle serves as the start/stop button, adding visual flair, while the drive mode selector on the multifunction steering wheel is also highlighted in red. The cabin is a luxurious blend of carbon fiber, leather, and microfiber. The dashboard showcases a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster complemented by two touchscreens—an 8.4-inch central unit oriented vertically and a sleek 9.1-inch passenger display. Customers can choose between 18-way adjustable heated and ventilated seats or optional carbon-fiber sports seats.

Lamborghini Temerario Exterior Design

Fashioned at Lamborghini’s Centro Stile, the Temerario embodies the classic wedge-like silhouette that defines the brand. A notable feature is the extensive open frontal area; in addition to the prominent air intakes in the bumper, the hexagonal daytime running lamps contain internal air tunnels, and the slim headlight units are sunken in with integrated aerodynamic channels.

Bumper Cutaways Inspired by Motorcycle Design

The roof of the Temerario features a central channel that directs airflow toward the rear spoiler, while the two side humps provide added headroom for occupants. At the back, viewers can catch glimpses of the V8 through small openings; however, the hatch can only be opened during maintenance. A panel on the right side is conveniently designed to flip open for fluid top-ups. The rear of the car also features a significant central diffuser, and the striking bumper cutaways reveal a large portion of the rear tires, hinting at substantial performance capabilities.

Double the Downforce Compared to the Huracan Evo

Lamborghini claims that extensive aerodynamic modifications yield a 103% increase in downforce compared to the Huracán Evo. This figure goes up to 158% with the optional lightweight Alleggerita package, which effectively reduces the overall weight by over 25kg using specially designed lightweight components and carbon rims.

With bookings currently open, interested customers for the Temerario can begin placing their orders, with deliveries scheduled to start early next year.

QnA: Francesco Scardaoni, Asia-Pacific Region Director, Automobili Lamborghini SpA

Insights on Lamborghini’s Hybridization

What was the rationale behind the hybridization of the Temerario, and are there any advantages or disadvantages?

We find no cons to hybridization. It represents an opportunity to enhance the vehicle’s functionalities through new features—such as increased power, improved handling, and reduced emissions. The integration of electric motors allows for more effective torque management compared to conventional systems, leading to faster cornering. Therefore, we classify this vehicle as an HPEV, or ‘high-performance electrified vehicle.’

Customer Feedback on Hybrid Vehicles

How has the response been from Lamborghini customers about hybridization?

The feedback on the Revuelto was outstanding. It has been sold out for over two years, which indicates that enthusiasts are quite pleased with the shift from the naturally aspirated V12. The Urus SE, which integrates hybrid technology, has received similar praise. Many customers appreciate the stealth mode, which enables quiet, fully electric operation—valuable for urban areas.

Future Plans for Electric Vehicles

What does Lamborghini’s strategy for electric vehicles look like?

Our electrification strategy, termed ‘Direzione Cor Tauri,’ emphasizes the objective of being the best rather than the first in the EV market. Timing is key for the successful introduction of our purely electric vehicle, which is expected to arrive by the end of the decade, featuring a GT and 2+2 configuration. We recognize that current customer demand favors hybrids, which is a vital step towards full electrification.

Performance Expectations for 2025

What’s your forecast for Lamborghini’s performance in India in 2025?

Last year was a successful one, with 113 units sold in India. We project a positive trend for 2025 based on existing orders. India represents a promising and strategic market for us, so we plan to have our complete lineup available, alongside engaging activities like the Lamborghini Esperienza Giro and potential collaborations with brands like Balenciaga and Tod’s.