Performance Makeover for Gallardo

Lamborghini has added extra horsepower to its best-selling Gallardo model, along with four-wheel drive to help keep the power on the road.

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 is powered by a new 560-horsepower 5.2-liter V10 engine. The LP560-4 receives a permanent 4-wheel-drive Viscous Traction system and new suspension to improve traction and dynamics. The 4 in the name refers to the Viscous Traction system first introduced on the Diablo VT in 1993 that relies on a viscous coupling in the transmission to distribute torque between the front and rear axles.

The original Gallardo design with its crisp, sharp lines and clean surfaces has been refined to be both more efficient and aerodynamic. At the front, lower, larger air intakes are more prominent than on its predecessor and clearly distinguish the new design while increasing the flow of air to the engine. The center spoiler between the air intakes aids aerodynamic balance at high speeds.

The new headlights have Y-shaped daytime running lights consisting of 15 LEDs and the similar treatment for the taillights was inspired by the Miura Concept, the Murcielago LP640 and the Reventon, with the Y pattern repeated three times.

New taillights, cooling vents, bumper and diffuser for the completely redesigned rear makes the Gallardo LP560-4 look extremely wide, while the streamlined panels to each side of the engine cover add length. The diffuser is more efficient and aids steering stability at high speed.

President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini Stephan Winkelmann said the LP560-4 will consolidate the Gallardo success story. "It will outclass its predecessor in every aspect; its dynamics are distinctly breathtaking and its design sets new standards. With the introduction of the Gallardo LP560-4, we will consistently continue Lamborghini's growth strategy."

The new 5.2-liter V10 is more efficient than the previous engine with an 18 percent improvement in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, despite offering an extra 40 horsepower. According to Lamborghini, the Gallardo LP560-4 will accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.7 seconds and reaches 200 km/h (124 mph) in just 11.8 seconds on the way to a top speed of 325 km/h (approx. 200 mph).

The automated e-gear transmission has been improved and updated with a 40 percent reduction in gear-shift time in "CORSA" mode. The driver can choose between five different driving and gear-change modes: Normal, Sport, CORSA, Thrust and Automatic.

The new braking system features Brembo Specialist 8-piston calliper on the front and Brembo 4-piston calipers on the rear with 365 mm (approx. 14.3 inches) discs in the front and 356 mm (approx. 14 inch) discs in the rear. Optional Carbon Ceramic brakes are available that are 380 mm (approx. 15 inches) at the front and 356 mm (approx. 14 inch) at the rear.