Lamborghini releases Huracan EVO RWD
Following the 2019 release of the Huracan EVO, Lamborghini has added a rear-wheel drive version – the Huracan EVO RWD.
As the name makes plain, the Huracan EVO RWD is a rear-wheel drive only version of the Huracan EVO that’s normally all-wheel drive. The new addition sacrifices some performance numbers, but Lamborghini says this makes the RWD version “an instinctive driver’s car”.
“The Huracan EVO rear-wheel drive puts the car in the driver’s hands: the driving experience is
delivered by the hardware,” said Stefano Domenicali, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Automobili Lamborghini.
“This car reminds the driver of Lamborghini’s pure engineering origins: the driver is at the centre of the Huracan EVO RWD’s performance, with unfiltered feedback and an emotive and more engaging driving experience controlled by the pilot.
“The Huracan EVO RWD enhances the V10 Huracan line-up with a model appealing to brand newcomers as well as those seeking sublime driving fun.”
Less power, but less weight, too
Powered by the same 5.2-litre naturally-aspirated V10 as its AWD sibling, the EVO RWD is mildly detuned, so gives up a little in terms of power. Outputs of 449kW and 560Nm are down 21kW and 40Nm compared to the Huracan EVO.
Even though the V10 engine is matched to the same 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox as the AWD version, 0-100km/h acceleration is down slightly – 3.3 seconds vs 2.9 seconds – but the 325km/h top speed is the same. Launch control remains standard.
Removing the componentry for the driven front axle means the EVO RWD is 33kg lighter than the AWD version at 1,389kg. Front/rear weight distribution is changed to 40/60.
Refined Traction
To suit its rear-wheel drive only chassis, the Performance Traction Control System (P-TCS) has been recalibrated and claims to deliver a “fun-to-drive experience” – even in snow. Where torque de-coupling is more abrupt in the AWD version, the EVO RWD avoids this, ensuring more traction is available when required, such as when exiting a corner.
P-TCS intervention is calibrated according to the selected driving mode – Strada, Sport or Corsa. In Strada (road) mode, P-TCS minimizes rear-wheel slippage to ensure stability and is best utilised in the wet, on rough roads and loose surfaces.
Sport mode allows the rear wheels to slide during acceleration, but Lamborghini says this “drifting fun” is not at the expense of safety. Recognising rapid increases in oversteer, the P-TCS limits torque delivery in this mode, allowing the driver to better control the car.
In Corsa (Race) mode, rear-wheel slip is optimised to improve cornering traction and agility.
P-TCS has also been recalibrated from the previous (non-EVO) Huracan RWD, with claimed improvements of 30 per cent smoother intervention, 20 per cent better corner-exit traction and improved oversteer enhancement of 30 per cent.
Like the P-TCS, the Lamborghini Dynamic Steering system has also been retuned to suit the Huracan EVO RWD’s new chassis dynamics.
Defining Style
While the Huracan EVO RWD looks the same as the AWD version, Lamborghini has made some styling changes, specifically to the front splitter, which now features lager front air intakes with vertical fins. At the rear, a new-style diffuser has been fitted that is unique to this model.
Standard wheels are 19-inch ‘Kari’ alloys with Pirelli P Zero tyres, but 20-inch rims are optionally available.
To launch the Huracan EVO RWD, Lamborghini developed a new colour – Giallo Belenus – which is on the car pictured. On the launch car, this exterior has been complemented with a dedicated leather and Alcantara interior trim. As with other Lamborghini models, a range of exterior finishes and interior trims will be available for the Huracan EVO RWD under Lamborghini’s Ad Personam programme.
European deliveries of the Huracan EVO RWD are expected in Q2, 2020, with an Australian release expected by the middle of the year. Local pricing will start at $384,187 (incl. LCT and GST, excl. ORCs).
