The Huracán owes its stealth fighter-inspired design in large part to the mid-rear positioning of its V10 as well as its attention to balance. The Tecnica version optimizes assembly through various improvements that ensure an increase in downforce of 35%. Barely 4.6 m long, as long as a Mazda3, it seems to embrace the ground with its front part, the plunging aspect of which is accentuated by low optics that pierce the soul of its observer. The side mounts a sublime roof arch that rises just 1.2 m above the ground. It ends on the translucent rear cover, to observe the precious mechanical jewel. At the rear, its width of 1.9m (without mirrors) is impressive with its “Y” lights uniting with the wide fenders. The diffuser and the fixed spoiler once again testify to this aerodynamic quest, while two raised hexagonal exhaust pipes ensure the music.
Apart from the obvious proximity to the ground which forces us to “dive” from behind in its seats, the interior of this Huracán remains rather accessible due to narrow door sills. The decor is flexible as desired depending on the selection of materials as well as the colors which can influence an almost infinite quantity of elements. The ubiquitous Alcantara in the test vehicle invariably nods to the racing roots of the model, which is also reflected in the overall configuration. The very low dashboard crossed by hexagonal nozzles disappears to focus attention on the driving position. There, a perfectly placed digital screen broadcasts important data from a box. Headroom is limited, as is storage, which requires you to travel light. Note also the excellent ergonomics of the controls and the seriousness of the assembly, a thousand miles from its ancestors.
The centerpiece of the work is a few centimeters behind the backrest of the occupants. Bolted to the center of the chassis, this atmospheric 5.2L V10, whose origins date back to the dawn of the marriage between Audi and Lamborghini, goes far beyond its simple motor function. The first start embellished with a quick and dry increase in speed reminds us of this in the premise. The escalation of the rev counter makes us explore a range worthy of the great compositions of Miles Davis or Wayne Shorter. It’s dramatic, it’s gripping and above all moving. The fleeting gear changes obtained from its dual-clutch gearbox (7-speed) vigorously punctuate the musical arrangement. This hot-blooded mechanic climbs the tachometer impetuously up to the 8000 rpm mark, when its 630 hp are fully produced in a crescendo. The proximity of this V10 allows you to fully immerse yourself in this magnificent mechanical experience.
The Tecnica livery relies solely on its rear wheels to move. Thanks to a very sophisticated traction control system and the fact that nearly 60% of the weight is on the rear axle, traction from a standing start is staggering, ensuring a 0-100 km/h in 3.2 s. Shortly before the arrival of the first sequence, the carbon-ceramic brakes drop anchor by means of a communicative and beautifully dosed pedal. The final downshift spits out a few bangs as the steering nudges the supercar with instinctive finesse. It gradually firmed up during the turn as the Huracán planted its hooves on the ground with ease. Its 1379 kg (dry) as well as the dynamic damping ensure this harmonious mechanical ballet of controlled firmness. The directional rear wheels also probably have their say here. At no time do you notice the front end lighten when reaccelerating mid-corner, as some mid-engined cars can do.
It is here that this Huracán hardly hides its wrinkles, an approach that brings good and bad to the formula. We greatly appreciate the use of cleverly placed physical keys to activate the fundamental functions. It gets worse, however, when you focus on the infotainment screen lying on the center console. Its positioning constantly forces you to look down, and the image refresh rate is worthy of another era. The lack of a volume adjustment wheel also forces us to constantly select a submenu, which can quickly become annoying. The average sound quality of the standard audio system and the haunting vocals of the V10, however, encourage you to turn off the stereo most of the time. The lack of active cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or even blind-spot sensors makes for a truly old-school experience and forces total driver immersion.
And now, what will be left of this Huracán? Undoubtedly a good place in the prestigious lineage of spirited bulls. Marrying irreverence with measured accessibility so as not to get lost in an overly consensual vision of the supercar, this work has always been defined by its heart. Its V10, which will give way to hybrid mechanics for the future, is one of the largest engines ever produced. Its musicality is matched only by its monumental ardor, taking us to the heart with its expressiveness that only an atmospheric engine can produce. But as recited in Pink Floyd’s magnificent piece The Great Gig in the Sky: “Why should I be frightened of dying?” There’s no reason for it, you’ve gotta go sometime.”
Lamborghini recently launched the Sterrato version, which has increased ground clearance by 44mm, in addition to the addition of skid plates to negotiate less smooth trails. Who said this builder didn’t have a sense of humor?
To ensure the rigidity and low weight of this Huracán, the chassis is made of carbon fiber as well as aluminum alloy.
Three driving modes are accessible via a button on the steering wheel. They influence a host of parameters, including sound, damping, the behavior of the rear axle and the transmission. However, you cannot configure everything individually.
In order to keep your hands on the wheel at all times, the direction indicators are activated by means of a button located to the left of the steering wheel. A solution that surprises us at first, but whose use quickly becomes instinctive.
We offer no less than 200 colors in addition to the 8 standard colors to complement the sharp lines of this Huracán. The optional color of the test model required an outlay of $17,650. It’s a Lamborghini, after all.
