Geneva Motor Show 2008

Lamborghini LP560-4

The raging bull has just got even meaner! Italian supercar maker Lamborghini reveals its stunning Gallardo replacement - the LP-560-4.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By James Disdale

04th March 2008

The new LP560-4 drops the Gallardo tag but adds a host of performance and mechanical upgrades as it gets ready to stretch ahead of supercar rivals from Porsche and Ferrari.

As you can see, the baby Lambo takes visual inspiration from the recently launched and ultra-rare Reventon. At the front there is a sharp, shark-like nose with larger air intakes set below smaller headlamps, while ahead of the front wheels there are now extra cooling ducts.

At the back, you’ll spot new slimline lights that sit above a full-width grille, giving the LP560-4 a very similar look to its close cousin, the Audi R8. Finally, four large exhaust pipes nestle below the bumper, replacing the twin set-up of the original car and giving a clue to the tweaks beneath the skin. The mid-mounted V10 is increased in size from 5.0 to 5.2 litres, and is based on the unit found in the supercar-chasing Audi RS6. As a result, power rises to 552bhp – a boost of 32bhp.

To make the most of this performance, the LP560-4 gets a lightened and uprated version of the Gallardo’s four-wheel-drive transmission. As before, this is connected to either a six-speed manual or e-gear semi-auto box. Acceleration is blistering, with the 0-60mph sprint taking less than four seconds. Top speed is likely to be in excess of 200mph.

Inside, the cabin has been carried over largely unchanged. The plastic switches on the centre console have been replaced with metal items, while splashes of carbon fibre and Alcantara are used on the steering wheel and door trims.

No price has been announced for the LP560-4, but it’s expected to be around £5,000 more than the outgoing car’s £121,000 tag.