The Fighting Bull Lives On

Do you know which car is Lamborghini's best-seller? You might want to say "Countach!" but the reality is the "Gallardo." It seems to have gained immense popularity for its size, price, ease of use, and reliability.

However, as you know, cars have model cycles. Introducing new models is essential to stimulate the market. That's where the "Huracan LP610-4" comes in. It was announced in Japan in 2014, so many of you have likely already seen it. While its styling is an evolutionary step from the Gallardo, it doesn't lack impact.

The Huracan's name, it is said, comes from a legendary fighting bull breed. In other words, the fighting bull lives on! Considering that the Gallardo was named after the bull breeder Francisco Gallardo, not a bull itself, it feels like a return to its roots.

Regardless, I had the opportunity to drive this wild bull at Fuji Speedway. It was a media test drive held concurrently with a program organized by Lamborghini Japan for its customers. Although there was a lead car, the event allowed for a high degree of freedom to experience considerable speeds.

A Powerful Start with 560Nm of Torque

To briefly summarize the circuit impressions, the car's lightness was immediately apparent. And for good reason: its frame is a hybrid structure using aluminum and carbon fiber. It's 10 percent lighter than the Gallardo, yet boasts increased torsional rigidity. Furthermore, the powertrain has been strengthened, with the V10 engine delivering a maximum output of 610ps.

With 560Nm of torque for a powerful launch and the engine revving past 8,000 rpm to unleash its maximum power, it's no wonder it feels so light. The catalog claims a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 3.2 seconds.

Next, I noticed the comfortable ride. Despite being equipped with Pirelli's ultra-low-profile tires, there was no choppiness. With the suspension set to its softest, it offered a comfort akin to a luxury sedan. It's surprising, considering the suspension stroke isn't particularly long. This suggests it wouldn't be unpleasant to drive in the city, if not for daily use.

The driving modes can be changed using the "ANIMA switch" on the steering wheel. Options include "STRADA" for city driving, "SPORT" for spirited driving, and "CORSA" for track use. Engaging "SPORT" alone enhances the racy exhaust note, creating a palpable atmosphere. Switching it in a tunnel on the Aqua-Line would surely be fun. Though, perhaps overdoing it might be a nuisance to others.—.

Accessible Even with Immense Power

Finally, I was impressed by the high level of safety. I experimented with various maneuvers on the circuit, and the electronic systems responded swiftly, with the car's behavior being meticulously controlled. In high-speed corners, understeer was eliminated, and in hairpin turns, oversteer was corrected. All instantaneously.

Even when I deliberately delayed my steering inputs, the car's behavior remained remarkably stable. The front end would point in the opposite direction faster than I could apply counter-steer, which was astonishing. This is likely a result of the efficient use of the newly designed 4WD system. The control is precise.

Thus, despite its exotic styling, this car offers a level of safety and stability that exceeds expectations. The Audi-derived electronic control systems harness its tremendous power with precision.

This means you can drive it in the city without hesitation. You won't have to refrain from taking it out just because the road is wet. Supercars have transitioned from being "powerful and difficult to handle" to "powerful yet easy to handle."

Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4
Body | Length 4,459 x Width 1,924 x Height 1,165 mm
Wheelbase | 2,620 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,668 / 1,620 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,422 kg
Engine | 5,204cc V10
Bore x Stroke | 84.5 x 92.8 mm
Max Output | 449 kW (610 ps) / 8,250 rpm
Max Torque | 560 Nm / 6,500 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed LDF (Lamborghini Doppia Frizione)
Drivetrain | 4WD
Suspension Front/Rear | Double Wishbone
Tires Front | 245/30R20 (Pirelli P Zero)
Tires Rear | 305/30R20 (Pirelli P Zero)
Brakes Front | Ventilated Carbon Ceramic Discs φ380 x 38 mm
Brakes Rear | Ventilated Carbon Ceramic Discs φ356 x 32 mm
Top Speed | 325 km/h
0-100km/h Acceleration | 3.2 seconds
0-200km/h Acceleration | 9.9 seconds
Fuel Consumption | 12.5 ℓ/100 km (approx. 8.0 km/ℓ)
CO2 Emissions | 290 g/km
Price (incl. tax) | 29.7 million yen