The Lamborghini Urus SE is the marque’s first plug-in hybrid Super SUV, combining a 4.0‑liter twin‑turbo V8 with an electric motor for a total of 800 CV (≈789 hp). Lamborghini describes the Urus SE as “the first PHEV version of the luxury Super SUV,” with an “astounding 80% emission reduction” over the standard model. It retains savage performance – 0‑100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and top speed about 312 km/h – while adding electric range. The SE’s new bodywork and upgraded aerodynamics (including a larger rear diffuser and lip) maximize cooling and downforce. With about 60+ km of full‑EV range, this Lamborghini can cruise quietly on battery power in urban driving and then unleash its V8 roar at the twist of a dial. (“An EV mode lets the SE move under all‑electric power up to speeds of ~80 mph,” MotorTrend notes.)
Hybrid Powertrain and Architecture
The Urus SE uses a parallel PHEV layout. Its twin‑turbo 4.0 L V8 produces roughly 611 hp and 800 Nm (590 lb‑ft) on its own. An AC synchronous permanent‑magnet motor (141 kW, 483 Nm) is mounted in front of the transmission (a “P2” placement) to supplement the V8. Together the two motors deliver 789 hp (often rounded to 800 CV) and very high torque. A 25.9 kWh lithium‑ion battery sits under the cargo floor (just behind the rear differential), enabling about 60 km of electric driving. Power is managed by an eight‑speed automatic and a multiplate “hang‑on” clutch that doles out torque between front and rear, with brake‑based torque vectoring on the rear axle.
- Engine: 4.0 L V8 twin‑turbo (re‑tuned for hybrid integration).
- Electric Motor: 141 kW (192 hp), 483 Nm permanent‑magnet synchronous unit.
- Battery: 25.9 kWh Li‑ion, 400 V (PHEV pack).
- Integration: Motor sits between engine and 8-speed auto, AWD via multi‑clutch (front/rear torque split).
This architecture lets the e‑motor act both as a torque boost and as a pure traction drive. As MotorTrend enthuses, “the e‑motor to Lamborghini is just as much … a power and torque adder as it is an EV‑only efficiency enabler”. In practice, the hybrid system helps eliminate turbo lag and offers regen braking, all while preserving the Urus’s trademark V8 sound (especially under load). Notably, Lamborghini engineers minimized any odd braking feel: the SE uses carbon‑ceramic brakes with firm, progressive pedal feel and little of the hesitation that can afflict other hybrids.
To learn about Hybrid Powertrain Architectures and Controls, check this article.
Performance Enhancements
Because of the hybrid assist, the Urus SE is actually the quickest Urus yet. The combined 800‑CV powertrain rockets to 100 km/h in about 3.4 s (some sources even cite ~3.1 s under perfect launch conditions), shaving tenths off the non‑hybrid’s time. Peak torque is similarly huge (combined ~800 Nm), and the eight‑speed gearbox fires off instant downshifts. Lamborghini claims a 0–100 time of 3.4 seconds, and MotorTrend’s initial test “found it’s every bit of that and maybe quicker”. Thanks to the electric boost, throttle response is immediate: stepping on the gas throws the V8 and motor into sync for a literally snarling 789‑hp surge.
Key performance figures:
- Power (engine + motor): 800 CV (≈789 hp) total.
- Torque (combined): ~800 Nm (≈590 lb‑ft) peak.
- 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph): ~3.4 s.
- Top Speed: ~312 km/h (194 mph).
Lamborghini has also tuned new drive modes to exploit the hybrid system. There are 11 distinct Anima+electric mode combinations (Strada/Sport/Corsa/Sabbia/Terra/Neve × EV/Hybrid/Recharge/Performance). In “Hybrid” mode, the Urus can glide silently on electricity with gentler throttle mapping, while “Performance” unleashes maximum fury from both motors. In short, when its “two hearts beat as one,” the SE behaves exactly like one expects a raging Lamborghini to act, yet it can also tiptoe around in town on battery power when desired.
Fuel Economy & Electric-Only Driving
Electrification brings dramatic efficiency gains. On the WLTP cycle with the battery charged, the Urus SE achieves a combined fuel consumption of only about 2.08 L/100 km (≈113 mpg) – clearly an outlier for a super‑SUV, thanks to the hybrid system. Even with the battery depleted, its hybrid V8 still manages about 12.9 L/100 km (≈18 mpg), which undercuts the 14.1 L/100 km WLTP of the non‑hybrid Urus S. Carbon‑dioxide emissions are quoted around 51 g/km (charged) versus 320 g/km (Urus S).
- EV Range: ~60 km (≈37 miles) electric mode – ample for short commutes.
- Electric Top Speed: Engine off up to ~80 mph (130 km/h).
- Charge Rate: ~11 kW AC on-board charger (full charge in ~2.5 hours).
- Efficiency (WLTP): 2.08 L/100 km (combined, charged); 12.9 L/100 km (discharged).
In practice, owners can expect the Urus SE to return nearly twice the city mileage of the V8‑only Urus when driven with electricity (city ECO scores are +80% compared to the gas model). The EV range is enough for most daily errands, cutting pump visits by tens of percent. Of course, long‑distance driving still uses fuel (as with any PHEV), but even there the hybrid boost reduces consumption during hard accelerations and while hauling heavy loads. Lamborghini cites CO₂ down 80% with the hybrid system engaged, meaning much lower fuel costs and emissions when the battery is kept topped up.
Comparison: Urus SE vs. Urus and Rival Hybrids
Compared to its peers, the Urus SE is in a class of its own for power and speed. Below is a summary of key specs for the Urus SE, the non‑hybrid Urus, and three top super‑SUV competitors:
| Model | Engine (Gas) | Electric Motor | Combined Power | Torque | 0–60 mph (0–100 km/h) | Top Speed | Battery (kWh) | EV Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lamborghini Urus SE (2025) | 4.0L twin-turbo V8 (611 hp) | 192 hp | 800 CV (≈789 hp) | 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) | 3.4 s | 312 km/h | 25.9 kWh | ~60 km |
| Lamborghini Urus S (2024) | 4.0L twin-turbo V8 (666 hp) | – | 666 CV (657 hp) | 850 Nm (627 lb-ft) | 3.5 s | 305 km/h | – | – |
| Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid | 4.0L V8 (591 hp) | 174 hp | – | 700 lb-ft | 3.5 s | 295 km/h | 25.9 kWh | ~60 km |
| BMW XM Label (2024) | 4.4L V8 (577 hp) | 194 hp | 738 hp | 738 lb-ft | 3.4 s | ~305 km/h | – | ~48 km (30 mi) |
| Aston Martin DBX707 (2025) | 4.0L V8 (697 hp) | – | – | 663 lb-ft | 3.1 s | 311 km/h | – | – |
From this comparison, the Urus SE leads in combined power and torque, with all‑wheel‑drive hybrid technology. It also uniquely offers EV driving in a Lamborghini-branded super‑SUV. The non‑hybrid Urus S is slightly slower (3.5 s) and less efficient (320 g/km CO₂ vs 51 g/km for SE). Among rivals, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid is close on performance (729 hp, 3.5 s) but has lower top speed (295 km/h) and shorter range (24 mi). The BMW XM PHEV nearly matches power (738 hp) and offers about 30 mi EV range, but is a much heavier luxury tourer. The Aston DBX707, while potent (697 hp, 3.1 s), is a pure‑gasoline SUV with higher emissions and no electrification. Overall, the Urus SE’s combination of Lamboghini performance and plug‑in capability is unique among its class.
Pros and Cons of the Urus SE Hybrid
Engineering Advantages:
- Massive performance boost: The electric motor delivers instant torque that supplements the turbo V8, improving throttle response and launch feel. Regenerative braking helps recharge the battery under deceleration.
- Efficiency gains: The PHEV system dramatically cuts fuel burn in city driving – emissions drop by ~80% vs. the non‑hybrid model=. Full-electric mode enables silent, zero‑emission cruising up to 60 km.
- Versatile drive modes: Ten driving‑mode combinations (Strada/Sport/Corsa/Sabbia/Terra/Neve × EV/Hybrid/Recharge/Performance) let engineers dial in efficiency or aggression as needed. Aero and cooling upgrades further refine high‑speed stability.
Engineering Drawbacks:
- Added complexity and weight: The battery pack and motor add roughly 300+ kg, which can impact handling. Packaging such heavy components required chassis reinforcement. More systems mean potential maintenance issues over time.
- Thermal management demands: Keeping the battery and hybrid components cool in track use adds cooling hardware (larger radiators, airflow ducts) which complicates design=.
- Not a full EV: As a PHEV, it still relies on gasoline for full performance; the V8 must run for serious throttle. Thus, it adds complexity without giving up fuel entirely.
Consumer Benefits:
- Lower fuel costs (when charged): Owners can drive daily on electric power (for ~37 miles) with near-silent operation, saving fuel and reducing emissions in town. The hybrid retains the exotic Lamborghini experience for spirited drives.
- Future-proofing: Electrification is inevitable; the Urus SE lets buyers enjoy Lamborghini performance while complying with upcoming regulations and benefitting from potential tax incentives for hybrids/PHEVs.
- Exclusive technology: Offers the bragging rights of cutting‑edge tech – it’s the only high‑performance Lamborghini you can plug in. The “pilot‑like” cockpit and new HMI keep the driver engaged with modern displays.
Consumer Drawbacks:
- Higher price: The hybrid system adds significant cost. Buyers pay a premium over the already‑expensive V8 Urus for the hybrid hardware and new features.
- Charging inconvenience: True EV range is limited (~60 km), so frequent plug‑ins are needed to maximize savings. Without plugging in regularly, its fuel economy advantage shrinks (though still better than the V8 alone).
- Potential reliability concerns: Complex high‑voltage systems may require careful maintenance. Battery longevity and replacement costs become considerations over the vehicle’s life.
- Weight affects agility: Despite advanced suspension, some buyers may notice extra heft compared to the non‑hybrid version. It’s still a 2.4-ton SUV.
- Purist sentiment: A minority of supercar enthusiasts might lament the loss of a purely internal‑combustion Lamborghini and worry about diluted engine sound. Lamborghini has tuned the exhaust to still roar in Sport/Track modes, but the luxury SUV sacrifice is real.
In summary, the Lamborghini Urus SE engineers a remarkable blend of supercar performance and hybrid efficiency. It delivers almost all the thrill of the twin‑turbo V8 while offering new capability (EV driving, better fuel economy) that engineers have carefully integrated. For buyers, it means a high‑speed SUV that can double as a city commuter and future‑ready flagship. However, this comes at the cost of added weight, complexity, and price. Enthusiasts and engineers alike will marvel at the technical achievement, even as some purists debate whether the electric charge to Mother Nature outweighs the electric charge to the credits card.