Lamborghini Urus Buyers Guide

The Lamborghini Urus, unveiled in 2018, marked a groundbreaking moment for Lamborghini. With its entrance into the SUV market with the Urus was both a bold and strategic move. It shares the same platform as the Audi Q8, but the Urus has an extra flair meant to turn heads. Designed to blend the performance of a supercar with the practicality and versatility of an SUV, the Urus redefines what a luxury sport utility vehicle can be.

Its name, derived from one of the large, wild ancestors of domestic cattle, hints at its power and untamed spirit, setting a new benchmark in the luxury SUV segment.

At the heart of the Lamborghini Urus comes with a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine produces 641 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of 190 mph, making it one of the fastest SUVs in the world.

Coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive, the Urus offers not just explosive acceleration but also remarkable handling and stability, embodying Lamborghini’s racing DNA in a family-friendly package.

The exterior of the Lamborghini Urus blends Lamborghini’s signature sports car aesthetics with the functional requirements of an SUV. Its silhouette features sharp lines, aggressive angles, and aerodynamic elements that not only contribute to its breathtaking appearance but also enhance its performance.

The front fascia, with its large air intakes, emphasizes the vehicle’s power, while the Y-shaped LED headlights and distinctive hexagonal design mirrors Lamborghini’s iconic style.

Inside, the Lamborghini Urus offers an interior that combines sportiness with comfort. The interior is covered with premium materials like leather, Alcantara, carbon fiber, and aluminum. The customizable ambient lighting, advanced infotainment system, and a fully digital instrument cluster create a modern and sophisticated environment.

The Urus also comes with features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a high-fidelity sound system, ensuring a driving experience that is as comfortable as it is exhilarating.

The Lamborghini Urus features six distinct driving modes, each designed for different driving conditions and preferences:

Neve: Tailored for winter conditions, enhancing traction on snow and ice.Sabbia: Optimized for off-road driving, particularly on sandy terrain, increasing ground clearance.Sport: Focuses on agility for dynamic driving experiences, ideal for country roads with varying elevations and curves.Corsa: The most performance-oriented mode, minimizing roll for a track-ready experience.Strada: Enhances comfort for daily driving, adjusting ride height for speed.Terra: Suited for off-road adventures, suggesting a tire change for trail readiness.

A few of the Lamborghini Urus include the Audi RSQ8, Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Cayenne Turbo S,  Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Aston Martin DBX, and the Ferrari Purosangue, but the Lamborghini is for those who want to make a statement. 

The Urus is one of the most exciting high-performance luxury SUVs to come out to date, it’s a blend of Lamborghini’s sports car DNA with the functionality and space of an SUV making it a standout choice for those seeking the ultimate in both performance and luxury.

Model Changes (Breakdown by Year)

2018 Lamborghini Urus

The 2018 model is the first full year of production for the Urus, it shares the same platform as the Audi Q8. 

Equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 641 hp.

The starting price for the Lamborghini Urus was $200,000 slotting it between the Audi RSQ8, Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Cayenne Turbo S,  Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Aston Martin DBX, and the Ferrari Purosangue.

2019 Lamborghini Urus

There were no significant updates for the 2019 Urus. 

2020 Lamborghini Urus

There were no significant updates for the 2020 Urus.

The base price for the Urus is now $211,000 ($11,000 more than the previous year).

2021 Lamborghini Urus

For 2021, Lamborghini introduced the Pearl Capsule appearance package on the Urus, offering vibrant new color options and distinctive design elements. This package brings to the table a selection of eye-catching hues, complemented by contrasting features and matching interior upholstery, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. 

Additionally, the 2021 model enriches its feature set with more standard driver assists and an array of new amenities such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a handful of other new standard and optional features., though it comes with a price increase.

The base price for the Urus is now $222,000 ($11,000 more than the previous year).

2022 Lamborghini Urus

There were no significant updates for the 2020 Urus.

The base price for the Urus is now $229,000 ($7,000 more than the previous year).

2023 Lamborghini Urus

In 2023, the Lamborghini Urus introduced enhanced performance versions with the new S and Performante models, featuring an increase to 657 hp. 

The Performante variant distinguishes itself with a unique suspension setup featuring steel springs for a lower ride height, optimized for performance. It also offers specialized 23-inch wheels paired with high-performance Pirelli tires, aimed at maximizing grip and handling.

Further differentiation comes through significant weight reduction strategies, including the use of carbon-fiber components and the elimination of sound-dampening materials, contributing to a lighter overall vehicle compared to the Urus S.

This year also sees aesthetic and functional updates, including a redesigned exterior, a new fixed rear spoiler for improved aerodynamics on the Performante, and interior enhancements such as exclusive seating and trim options.

The base price for the Urus S started at $233,000 and Urus Performante started at $268,000.

2024 Lamborghini Urus

For the 2024 model year, Lamborghini plans minimal changes for the Urus, with a notable exception being the introduction of a hybrid powertrain, as confirmed by CEO Stefan Winkelmann. 

This new addition is anticipated to either complement or replace the existing 657 hp twin-turbo V-8 engine, aiming to enhance the high-performance SUV’s efficiency and appeal. The hybrid version of the Urus is expected to debut in the 2025 model year, marking a significant shift towards electrification for Lamborghini’s lineup.

Lamborghini Urus Common Problems

The Lamborghini Urus shares its platform with the Audi Q8. This unique partnership allows it to inherit Audi’s renowned reliability and dependability. However, like any vehicle, the Urus is not immune to experiencing some issues over its lifetime.

Keep in mind, that it is crucial to perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) from an authorized dealer or experienced independent mechanic to reveal all issues.

Transmission Problems: Some owners have faced issues with the eight-speed automatic transmission, including slipping or jerking movements. This can stem from low transmission fluid levels, faulty torque converters, or worn-out clutch plates. Addressing these issues might require fluid top-offs, part replacements, or a transmission flush.

Electrical System Glitches: The Urus is equipped with advanced electrical systems, and owners have reported problems such as the infotainment system freezing or the audio system cutting out. Solutions may involve system resets or software updates.

Suspension Concerns: The model is known for its adaptive air suspension system designed for comfort and agile handling. However, reports of a bumpy ride or suspension warning lights have emerged, suggesting a need for inspection and potential replacement of damaged components or system recalibration.

Engine Related Issues: Concerns like oil leaks, engine misfires, overheating, carbon build-up, and camshaft wear have been noted. These problems might manifest through decreased oil levels, rough idle, poor acceleration, and increased engine noise, necessitating checks and possible maintenance or repairs.

Fuel Leak Recall: Specifically, for the 2019-2020 Urus models, a recall was issued due to a risk of fuel leaks from the high temperatures in the engine compartment potentially damaging the fuel line quick connector. The solution involved replacing the fuel line and quick connector.

Production Defects in Engine Block Casting: A less common but notable issue traced back to a misalignment in the automated mold-extrusion stamp during the engine block casting process by a German parts supplier. This led to recalls requiring complete engine replacements, a significant fix undertaken by dealerships.

Recalls

2022 Urus vehicles

Back over prevention: Display function (Recall no. 22V804000)

The infotainment system may become damaged, which can result in an inoperative rearview camera display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, “Rear Visibility.”

2021 Urus vehicles

Seat belts: Rear/other: Retractor (Recall no. 21V603000)

The middle-rear passenger seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Crash Protection.”

2021 Urus vehicles

Engine (Recall no. 21V336000)

Cracks may develop on the surface of the engine cylinder bore.

2019-2020 Urus vehicles

Fuel system, gasoline: Delivery: Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings (Recall no. 20V713000)

High temperatures in the engine compartment may damage the fuel line quick connector, possibly resulting in a fuel leak.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

The Lamborghini Urus is a reliable SUV that you can rely on and has relatively low maintenance requirements.

However, it is important to remember that regular maintenance and repairs will still be necessary, and the costs can vary depending on whether you take your car to a dealer or an independent mechanic.

Here are the suggested service schedule and intervals per Lamborghini:

1 YEAR Or 9,000 MILES

Replace engine oil and filter.Conduct a thorough inspection in accordance with factory specifications.Perform comprehensive factory diagnostics.

2 YEARS Or 18,000 MILES

Replace engine coolant.Replace spark plugs.Replace engine oil and filter.Inspect and – if necessary – replace the V-belt and tensioner.Replace pollen filters.Replace brake fluid.

3 YEARS Or 27,000 MILES

Replace engine oil and filter.Replace gearbox oil.

Here is a rough estimate of typical service costs associated with the Lamborghini Urus:

Oil Change – As low as $300 for independent mechanics and $900 for dealers.Minor Service – Typically includes oil change, cabin filters, and engine filters. The cost from a dealer is around $1,500Major Service – Typically includes all the above plus spark plugs, brake flush, and trans flush, expect about $2,500 from a dealer.Tires – A set of high-performance tires like Pirelli P Zero will cost about $2,000.Brakes – Rotors are carbon ceramic which should last forever. Aftermarket brake pads that are OE equivalent will cost about $800 for a full set.

Extended Warranty and Maintenance Plans

For newer Lamborghini Urus owners, the vehicles are covered by a 3-year/unlimited mileage vehicle comprehensive warranty, a 3-year/unlimited mileage powertrain warranty, and a 12-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation (rust) warranty. Prepaid maintenance is available at various prices through Lamborghini Multi-Coverage Protection Packages. At the end of the 3-year standard warranty period, Lamborghini offers an extended warranty that can be purchased to extend out to 7 years from the vehicle’s initial date of service, for added assurance. If taken at the time of purchase, the extra costs of the extended warranty and extended maintenance plans can be incorporated into your monthly finance payment.

Options List

The Lamborghini Urus has a list of options and packages that customers can choose from. 

Some options were packages featuring exterior upgrades, including high-gloss pieces and carbon-forged materials, specifically for high-performance variants such as the Urus S and Performante. 

A popular option was to opt for the upgraded paint with a pearl, 4-layer, or matte finish, which often adds a premium to the car’s price.

There were several wheels to choose from for each Urus variant as well. 

Another common option that was equipped was the Lamborghini Dynamic Steering wheel (LDS) in combination with the lifting system and magneto-rheologic suspension. 

Some buyers also opted for the Sportivo interior option which lets you pick a unique color for the leather which could be in unicolor (just one color) or in bicolor (color on inserts of seats and door panel) and also the branding package with included the Lamborghini logo on the headrest.

The Pearl Capsule appearance package on the Urus would also be a nice option if you can find one. 

A handful of Urus customers also went through the Ad Personam program which was a factory-in-house customization program that allowed customers to personalize their Urus with unique exterior and interior colors, materials, and features that were not available on regular production models. 

Because of the strict approval requirements, cars that went through the Ad Personam program are considered highly desirable. 

These cars usually command a higher premium in the market due to their exclusivity and uniqueness. 

Key Options

Lamborghini Dynamic Steering Wheel LDS 

High-gloss, carbon-forged exterior pieces 

Optional wheels

Pearl, 4-layer, or matte finish paint

Pearl Capsule appearance package on the Urus

Sportivo interior option

Branding Package

Ad Personam exterior or interior (rare)

2023 Lamborghini Urus Sport options list

Lamborghini Urus Price and Values (S and Performante)

The Best Lamborghini Urus to Buy

When it comes to buying an Urus, there are a few key factors to consider that can affect the car’s long-term value.

Some of the criteria are broken down into a few categories. 

For Urus that will most likely appreciate in value will be the performance variants such as the Peformante. Although it is more expensive, they will also depreciate much less. 

When selecting an Urus, the exterior color and wheel option can also play a role in making the right choice. Opting for the optional pearl, 4-layer, or matte finish paint and upgraded optional wheels will add to the car’s appeal.

In terms of market stability, your best bet would be a 2018 to 2020 Lamborghini Urus.

Additionally, the Urus S is a more refined and capable version of the original Urus, featuring improved aerodynamics, engine power, transmission, suspension, braking, infotainment, four-wheel-steering, and driving modes. Combined with all of this, the Urus S is a great choice.

The Urus will remain a strong purchase simply because of its reputation for being an extremely well-built and reliable vehicle. These cars have a proven track record for being mechanically sound with few major issues.

As hybrid technology becomes more widespread among cars, naturally aspirated V8s are becoming highly sought after by enthusiasts who are looking for a fun SUV in the current market.

Keep in mind, the condition and mileage of the car are also important factors to consider when buying a Urus. There are many that have been driven hard and have been neglected. But the ones that are more likely to retain their value in the long run and will fetch the most money will be a well-maintained car with low mileage.

Therefore, it’s important to do your research, compare prices, and look for well-maintained cars if you are considering purchasing an Urus with the goal of not losing any money.

Conclusion

In conclusion, for around ($250,000+) the Lamborghini Urus is a great choice for the first high-performance luxury SUV that you can rely on.

While the Audi RSQ8, Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Cayenne Turbo S,  Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Aston Martin DBX, and the Ferrari Purosangue are other alternatives, the Urus stands out as an exceptional SUV with the dependability of Audi underpinnings that you can rely on. 

If you’re in the market for a great SUV that will turn heads, the Urus is a top choice you will not regret.