Lamborghini is making a “two-generation leap” with the Aventador LP700-4, its new V12 range-topper launched today at the Geneva auto show.
The new supercar promises savings in weight, increases in power, greater efficiency and more performance than its successor, the long-serving Murciélago. Its 6.5-liter, dry-sumped V12 has eight percent more grunt, at 691hp — enough for the 3,470lb, four-wheel-drive Aventador to reach 62mph in 2.9sec and a top speed of 217mph.
Named after a bull that fought in Spain in 1993, the Aventador makes extensive use of carbon fiber in its construction, including a central tub that weighs just 325lbs. The car's technical setup includes aluminum double wishbone suspension with a pushrod spring and damper concept, similar to that adopted by many Formula 1 teams, and a new 7-speed, single-clutch, robotized manual transmission.
Developed by Lamborghini and Graziano, the new gearbox uses independent shifting rods to actuate the shifting sleeves. There's still just one clutch, but Lamborghini claims that because the shifting process can run almost in parallel, the shift times are superior to those of dual-clutch systems. The unit can shift around 40 percent quicker than the old single-clutch robotized transmission (e-gear) in the Gallardo, but despite its complex arrangement it weighs just 154lbs.
ISR will offer three manual modes: comfort-oriented Strada, the quicker Sport and the full-blown Corsa, which also includes launch control. There are also two automatic modes.
Options will include a transparent engine cover, black-painted wheels and colored calipers for the carbon-ceramic brakes, plus parking sensors and a stereo upgrade.
The increases in sophistication and efficiency over the Murciélago – and the fact that the old model served Lamborghini for nine years – have prompted the company's CEO, Stephan Winkelmann, to describe the Aventador as “a jump of two generations in terms of design and technology.” He added, “It's the result of an entirely new project, but at the same time it's a direct and consistent continuation of Lamborghini's brand values.”