Having recently shared my thoughts on the Porsche 911 GT3, a car that still holds a special place in my admiration, the world of high-performance vehicles continues to fascinate. Shortly after publishing my GT3 impressions, a fellow enthusiast sent a message regarding a review of the Lamborghini Huracán, suggesting the GT3 couldn’t keep pace. While a direct track comparison wasn’t feasible, the opportunity to experience the Huracán firsthand presented itself, and the question arose: what is the reality behind the hype?
This exploration isn’t intended to rehash existing reviews, but rather to offer a personal perspective on the Lamborghini Huracán. My driving skills and writing style may differ, and the track experience might be on shorter circuits, but this is about capturing the essence of the Huracán from behind the wheel. While reports of reaching 176 MPH in the Huracán exist, this review focuses on the accessible, visceral experience of this Italian supercar.
My fascination with Lamborghini began, like many, with the iconic opening scene of “The Cannonball Run,” featuring a black Countach and its rebellious spirit against speed limits. Lamborghinis have always held a certain allure, a blend of striking design and raw power. However, they historically lacked the established track record of some Italian rivals and certainly the motorsport pedigree of German sports car brands. My first encounter behind the wheel of a Lamborghini was in 2014, driving several Gallardo models at Hallett Motor Racing Circuit. While enjoyable, the Gallardo presented challenges, particularly for taller drivers like myself, with limited headroom and a somewhat cramped interior.
Initially, the Huracán appeared as a modern evolution of the Gallardo, leading me to remain focused on other performance cars. However, a Saturday morning arrived with the keys to a Rosso Mars Huracán in hand, ready to challenge preconceived notions. Immediately apparent was the improved ergonomics. The Huracán accommodates a wider range of drivers, tall and short alike, a significant step forward from the Gallardo’s limitations. The seat offers a greater range of adjustment, enhancing usability for diverse body types.
Yet, the Huracán retains its Lamborghini DNA. The dashboard remains aggressively styled with a liquid crystal display, integrating even the central gauges and climate controls. Inspired by the F-117 Stealth Fighter, sharp, angular lines define the Huracán’s aesthetic. Unlike the almost clinical feel of some competitors, the Huracán is distinctly and unapologetically Lamborghini, a characteristic that is part of its appeal.
Unleashing the V10 Powerhouse
The most defining, unapologetic aspect of the Huracán is undoubtedly its 602 horsepower V10 engine, positioned directly behind the driver.
The sheer force is breathtaking.
This visceral reaction was echoed by a first-time exotic car driver, accustomed only to a classic V8 Camaro. Upon gently being prompted to accelerate onto the track, the accelerator was met with considerable force. The Huracán, aided by stability control and all-wheel drive, surged forward, unleashing a ferocious roar that reportedly disrupted a classroom session on the second floor adjacent to the track.
The eight-speed transmission delivers seamless gear changes, whether utilizing the paddle shifters or in automatic mode. In “Strada” mode, the transmission might occasionally hesitate to downshift, a setting less suited for track driving. However, for passenger experiences, particularly with novice drivers, “Strada” mode provides a degree of control while still delivering exhilarating acceleration, enough to elicit audible gasps. The Huracán’s rolling start capability is particularly impressive. Entering turn 12 at Hallett and applying full throttle results in rapid speed accumulation, often causing passengers to instinctively lift off the throttle well before the halfway point of the main straight.
Even at the tight Englishtown track in New Jersey, the Huracán’s raw power was evident. The short straights were enough to inspire self-preservation, with drivers instinctively backing off the throttle without prompting. The performance gap between the Huracán and a high-performance car like an M3 is substantial, far greater than the difference between that M3 and a classic muscle car.
Track Dynamics and Supercar Comparisons
This raw explosiveness validates claims about the Huracán’s performance. It accelerates with breathtaking intensity, offering a level of feedback and communication that surpasses expectations. The experience can be genuinely intimidating, highlighting its supercar status. Its speed is phenomenal, and its character remains as outrageous as any Lamborghini should be.
However, on a tight track, the Huracán, while incredibly capable, doesn’t quite embody the precision of a dedicated race car. Despite Audi’s influence, Lamborghini’s historical focus has not been primarily on racing pedigree. While the Huracán can confidently outperform a Ferrari 458 Italia in many metrics, the Ferrari may still offer a more nuanced and engaging driver’s experience. Similarly, while a Nissan GT-R might be more forgiving and easier to manage at the limit, the Huracán possesses a raw, untamed power that can simply overwhelm it.
Ultimately, the Lamborghini Huracán isn’t solely designed for track dominance or outright lap times. It represents something greater: an extraordinary achievement in automotive engineering and design. While many Huracáns might spend more time as garage queens or cruising scenic routes, it is genuinely a remarkable car, capable of daily driving yet purpose-built for a specific, passionate clientele.
A Car for the Lamborghini Faithful
The Lamborghini Huracán is fundamentally a car for devotees of the raging bull emblem. It embodies the visual and auditory promises first made decades ago, capturing the spirit of Lamborghini’s iconic designs. It’s a car crafted for those who deeply appreciate the Lamborghini mystique, and in that regard, it delivers emphatically.
Note: This review is based on experiences with Xtreme Xperience and is an independent assessment.
