The Lamborghini Urus has undeniably reshaped the landscape of luxury SUVs, injecting a potent dose of Italian passion and performance into a segment often associated with stately comfort. While purists might have initially scoffed at the idea of a Lamborghini SUV, the Urus has proven to be a resounding success, becoming a cornerstone of the brand’s modern identity. Now, enter the Urus S, an evolution that refines the formula, promising enhanced luxury and performance without sacrificing the raw thrill that defines a raging bull.
Born from a lineage steeped in supercar heritage, Lamborghini’s connection to bulls is legendary. From the iconic Miura to the Aventador, the spirit of these powerful creatures has been woven into the very fabric of the brand. The Urus S continues this tradition, embodying the strength and agility of its namesake, albeit in a more versatile and everyday-usable package. While the automotive world increasingly leans towards electrification, with even Lamborghini embracing hybrid technology, the Urus S stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a high-performance V8 in a world-class SUV.
Under the Hood: The Heart of the Urus S
The centerpiece of the Urus S experience is undoubtedly its engine. In a market saturated with SUVs, few can boast a twin-turbocharged V8 producing a staggering 657 horsepower (489 kW) and 627 lb-ft (849 Nm) of torque. These figures aren’t just numbers; they represent a clear distinction from its platform-sharing cousins within the Volkswagen Group, like Audi and Porsche. Lamborghini doesn’t simply borrow an engine; they meticulously rework and recalibrate it to deliver a uniquely Lamborghini experience.
The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 in the Urus S undergoes specific tuning to unleash its full potential. This isn’t merely about raw power; it’s about crafting a distinct engine character. Coupled with a bespoke all-wheel-drive system and gearbox calibration, the Urus S delivers a driving feel that separates it from the pack. Adding to the versatility are multiple driving modes, each tailoring the vehicle’s dynamics to different conditions.
From the Strada (street) mode for daily driving to Sport for heightened road performance, and off-road modes like Sabbia (sand) and Terra (off-road), the Urus S adapts to various terrains. Neve (snow) mode ensures confident winter driving, while Corsa (race) mode unleashes the vehicle’s ultimate track potential. While fuel economy might not be the primary concern for Urus S owners, Lamborghini quotes 14 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 16 mpg combined. However, real-world driving, especially when exploring the performance capabilities, can yield significantly lower figures, as low as 8 mpg.
Step Inside: The Luxurious and Quirky Cabin of the Urus S
Stepping inside the Urus S is where you encounter the unique Lamborghini blend of luxury and unconventional controls. True to Lamborghini tradition, some controls are intentionally quirky. The drive mode selector, for instance, cycles only in one direction, requiring a full loop to return to your desired setting. Similarly, the prominent lever in the center console, resembling an aircraft throttle, is solely for engaging reverse gear – a distinctive Lamborghini touch.
Beyond these eccentricities, the cabin of the Urus S is undeniably luxurious. Comfortable seats, excellent visibility, and premium materials abound. Real metal accents, generous carbon fiber trim, and supple leather create an opulent atmosphere. The metal shift paddles feel substantial and engaging, encouraging manual gear changes. These paddles are, in fact, how you engage drive, another unique Lamborghini design choice.
The infotainment system and digital gauge cluster, while sharing a foundation with Audi’s RS Q8, are customized with Lamborghini graphics and interfaces. They function smoothly and responsively, although the reliance on a lower touchscreen for climate controls, rather than physical buttons, is a minor ergonomic drawback. The piano-black plastic surround for this screen also feels somewhat out of place in a vehicle of this price point.
Highlighting the auditory experience is the exceptional Bang & Olufsen sound system. With 1,700 watts and 21 speakers, it delivers immersive and high-fidelity audio. Upon startup, dashboard speakers extend, adding a touch of theatrical flair. Y-shaped speaker grilles further enhance the system’s visual appeal.
Rear seating in the Urus S can be configured for either three passengers or individual bucket seats. Even with the standard bench, the rear offers ample space, including dedicated climate zones and heated seats. Folding rear seats expand the cargo area beyond the standard 22 cubic feet, offering practicality alongside performance.
Driving Dynamics: Taming the Bull on City Streets and Open Roads
Los Angeles, with its dense traffic, might seem like an unlikely place to fully appreciate a Lamborghini. Yet, it’s in this urban environment that the Urus S reveals its surprisingly practical side. At low speeds, the Urus S is comfortable, refined, and even offers massage seats – a far cry from the raw, untamed nature one might expect from a Lamborghini. It’s a testament to the Urus S’s dual personality: a beast when unleashed, but a comfortable cruiser when needed.
While the Urus S excels in urban settings, its Lamborghini DNA truly emerges when pushed harder. Switching to Corsa mode transforms the driving experience. Safety systems are relaxed, throttle response sharpens, steering firms up, and fuel consumption takes a dramatic hit. This is where the “wild DNA” surfaces, delivering the exhilarating performance expected from a Lamborghini.
In Corsa mode, the Urus S becomes a different animal. The exhaust note intensifies, gear shifts become aggressive, and the throttle becomes incredibly responsive. On winding roads, the Urus S feels remarkably agile for its size, with impressive body control in corners. Acceleration is breathtaking, launching from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.2 seconds. The sheer speed and responsiveness require focus and quick reflexes, especially during initial bursts of acceleration.
Adding to the thrill is the distinctive exhaust sound. Compared to its Porsche Cayenne counterpart, the Urus S delivers a far more boisterous and characterful soundtrack. It’s edgy, aggressive, and undeniably Lamborghini, enhancing the overall driving experience at any speed. The true genius of the Urus S lies in its ability to seamlessly transition between a docile daily driver and a thrilling performance machine, adapting to diverse driving needs and environments.
The Competition: Navigating the High-Performance SUV Arena
The high-performance SUV market, while niche, is fiercely competitive. The Urus S faces rivals like the Bentley Bentayga, Audi RS Q8, and Porsche Cayenne – all within the same automotive group. The Ferrari Purosangue occupies an even more exclusive tier, boasting unique design and a naturally aspirated V12 engine.
The choice within this segment often boils down to personal preferences. The Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan prioritize ultimate luxury and comfort. The Aston Martin DBX and Audi RS Q8 lean slightly more towards performance. The Porsche Cayenne remains the benchmark that established this category.
The Ferrari Purosangue, with its higher price tag and V12 engine, exists in a different realm compared to the Urus S. However, the Urus S carves its own niche by offering arguably the most visually striking design in the segment, coupled with exhilarating performance and a captivating exhaust note. It undercuts the Cullinan and Purosangue in price, while delivering a distinctly Lamborghini experience that the Audi RS Q8, despite sharing underpinnings, cannot fully replicate.
The Verdict: A Necessary Bull for a Modern Lamborghini
The Lamborghini Urus S, in essence, is a high-riding hatchback rather than a traditional SUV. It’s sporty, playful, and genuinely fun to drive. Does it uphold the Lamborghini legacy? Purists might debate, but market success speaks volumes. The Urus, and by extension the Urus S, is in high demand, with waitlists extending into 2026.
The Urus S is more than just a successful model; it’s vital for Lamborghini’s future. Its financial success enables the brand to continue developing enthusiast-focused supercars like the Huracan STO, Revuelto, and Temerario. Just as the Cayenne revitalized Porsche, the Urus S is doing the same for Lamborghini, providing the financial foundation for continued innovation and the creation of dream cars. In this context, the Lamborghini Urus S is not just a win for Lamborghini, but a win for automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
