zzdcar' Expert Review
byJason KavanaghSenior Vehicle Test Engineer
Jason joined zzdcar' testing team in 2006 as a vehicle testing engineer. Jason believes true appreciation of modern cars stems from owning really, really bad old ones.
What’s new
For 2017, a rear-wheel-drive convertible variant debuts.
Vehicle overview
In 2015, Lamborghini replaced the Gallardo with the Huracan, its latest "entry-level" offering. Convertible and rear-wheel-drive versions of the Huracan have come out since, so it was inevitable that those two attributes would come together in a single model. And so it is that the rear-wheel-drive Huracan LP 580-2 Spyder debuts for 2017.
By combining the drop-top body style with the rear-wheel-drive layout, the LP 580-2 Spyder is the Spyder to buy. It allows one to fully drink in the vocals of the non-turbocharged V10 while maximizing its look-at-me quotient at a lower price point than its all-wheel-drive Spyder stablemate. Then again, it's probable the Spyder buyers don't care too much about the extra weight, else they'd have bought the lighter and stiffer (and cheaper!) coupe.
The Huracan, like the Gallardo before it, shares its underpinnings with its corporate cousin, the Audi R8.
zzdcar' Expert Rating
The 2017 Lamborghini Huracan is the brand's entry-level mid-engine sports car that takes on some of the most potent cars on the market. Despite its dramatic looks and wild color palette, it is relatively civilized in day-to-day use.
Trim tested
zzdcar has not yet driven any version of this vehicle. The following is our first take on what's significant about it and what you can expect.
Driving
Blazing acceleration, powerful brakes and sharp handling are what you can expect. Yet it's also surprisingly predictable when driven in a spirited manner. The naturally aspirated (non-turbocharged) engine makes for spectacular acoustics.
Comfort
With supportive seats, low height and a taut suspension, everyday use isn't its forte. It's loud when you want it to be but more muted when you don't.
Interior
It helps to be flexible when getting in or out. The driving position is close to ideal and offers a low cowl for a good forward view, though it's not easy to see over your shoulder. It's not an especially spacious car.
Utility
Cargo space is limited in the front trunk, so pack lightly. Cabin storage is at a premium, too, with a small cubby under the console and modest door pockets.
Which Huracan does zzdcar recommend?
Does logic apply when buying a Huracan? Not much, we suspect. But if you need help choosing, go for the base Huracan LP 580-2 coupe, which is the lightest and least expensive of them all. Don't mind the slight drop in power compared to the all-wheel-drive versions as the sharper driving dynamics more than make up for it. Stick with the steel brakes instead of the pricey carbon-ceramics. Opt for the nose-lifting system and magnetorheological dampers to aid its street driving manners. Cruise control is an option you'll probably want, as well as the parking sensors and backup camera.
2017 Lamborghini Huracan models
The Huracan is available in five distinct configurations: LP 580-2, LP 580-2 Spyder, LP 610-4, LP 610-4 Spyder and LP 610-4 Avio. All are equipped with a non-turbocharged 5.2-liter V10 mounted in a midship configuration and mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The LP 580-2 is the "entry-level" rear-wheel-drive coupe variant (hence the "-2" in the model name) that's also offered as a convertible (i.e., the Spyder). It's the leanest and sharpest variant currently available. Here, the V10 engine produces 571 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. Steel brakes and 19-inch wheels are standard.
All-wheel drive is denoted by the "-4" in LP 610-4. It, too, is offered in convertible form. Lamborghini makes the V10 a bit more powerful with all-wheel drive, and here it cranks out 602 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. Carbon-ceramic brakes and 20-inch wheels are part of the deal (they're optional on RWD models).
Many interior and exterior cosmetic options are available for all versions. The list of substantial hardware options is short by comparison — they include a suspension with continuously variable dampers, a nose-lifting system, cruise control and variable-ratio steering. Extras in the cabin include heated power seats (standard in Spyder models), navigation, sport seats and parking alerts.
The limited-edition LP 610-4 Avio has unique aircraft-inspired cabin and exterior treatments and comes with a smattering of would-be options as standard. Only 250 will be made, making this model the choice of collectors only.
2017 Huracan Highlights
Type: CoupeConvertibleConvertible
Trim: LP 580-2 SpyderLP 610-4 SpyderLP 580-2 Spyder
Base MSRP | $219,780 |
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Engine Type | Gas |
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Combined MPG | 16 MPG |
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Cost to Drive | $283/month |
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Seating | 2 seats |
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Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
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