Fast Pass

(Photos courtesy Lamborghini.)

Yes, supercar manufacturers have joined the rest of the automotive world by adding SUVs to their lineups. Lamborghini has joined this fleet with the Urus SUV. But the performance aspect is combined with utility to handle a family’s needs. In addition, there is a plug-in hybrid model that delivers an attractive fuel mileage rating.

Of course, the exterior is not your typical SUV. The overall height is somewhat lower than many SUVs, with a smooth, non-angular design. The roofline is also lower, angling downward as it extends back from the front windshield. A spoiler sits over the rear windshield. But the performance aspect is indicated by huge, good-looking 23-inch alloy wheels with high-tech performance tires. Huge red brake calipers can be seen behind the wheels. Overall, it is an attractive package.

The interior is a combination of function and attractiveness. The leather-lined seats are a mix of black and the exterior color. The front seats do not have high side bolsters, but they can be adjusted in many ways to accommodate the driver and passenger. Two very large, colorful video screens are found behind the steering wheel and in the middle of the dash. The dash screen has tons of information, and the display can be changed to rotate the information.

A huge number of features are handled by the center touchscreen, including cameras that provide views around the SUV and the rear area. The navigation system is very detailed, with directions on the center screen and projected onto the windshield in front of the driver. The windshield display shows the local speed limit, your actual speed and your location in the lane. Under the front armrest is a wireless charging system for a cell phone.

The rear seating area accommodates two adults with plenty of room on the leather seats. Storage is found behind the front seats, and air vents are spread around to provide ventilation.

Additional lights are available to brighten the area. The rear liftgate opens with the push of a button, and the rear provides a decent amount of storage space. Interestingly, there is a metal rod system that can be moved forward or backward to hold items in place.

But the real fun is driving this hybrid model. At low speeds in the city, the electric motor moves you along in silence and, of course, saves gas. The ride and handling are completely adjustable, with six different choices for suspension and power. With all the adjustments available, the ride and handling can be racecar-like or smooth and quiet — your choice.

But if more speed is needed, pressing the accelerator results in the twin-turbocharged V8 coming on with some exhaust rumble and much greater performance. Zero to 60 mph takes a mere 3.4 seconds. The automatic transmission will shift automatically, or gears can be changed manually using the huge paddles behind the steering wheel. Handling corners is easy with supersized tires and adjustable suspension. Steering is direct and to the point.

So, the bottom line with this SUV is that you get practical features with a mix of decent fuel mileage and super performance.

LAMBORGHINI URUS

MODEL // Four-door SUV, five passengers

POWERTRAIN // Four-wheel drive, 4-liter twin-turbocharged V8, hybrid electric motor, 789 total horsepower, 8-speed automatic transmission

PERFORMANCE // 0–60 mph: 3.4 seconds; top speed: 190 mph

BASE PRICE // $276,741; $347,274 as tested

FUEL MILEAGE // 48 mpg (hybrid); 20 mpg (gas only)

(Photos courtesy Lamborghini.)