Lambo LP plays longer and harder

What is it?

Lamborghini has given the Gallardo the same aggressive makeover the Murcielago enjoyed when it morphed into the LP640. In the same way, the Gallardo now has jutting front air intakes and a generally more muscular stance. There are also changes to the aerodynamics to make the LP560-4 slice through the air with greater efficiency, while revisions to the suspension improve the handling. Deep within the core of the LP is a larger V10 engine, now sporting a 5.2-litre capacity and barking 552bhp. The LP560-4 strikes far into the territory of its big brother with a top speed of 202mph too.

Is it any good?

When you get to a certain level of performance car, you normally experience diminishing returns on the amount you spend. After all, no matter how much money you throw at a car, there's only so much you can shave off of its 0-62mph time or increase its top speed. Not so with the LP560-4. It moves the game on considerably from the previous Gallardo - not that there was much wrong with that car. The extra power of the 5.2-litre V10 engine, some 552bhp at a sweltering 8,000rpm, is enough to see the LP cover 0-62mph in just 3.7 seconds, regardless of whether you prefer the standard six-speed manual gearbox or paddle-change E-gear transmission that does away with the clutch pedal. The Gallardo LP560-4 is not just about straight line speed - though it makes a good case for itself as a dragster thanks to standard four-wheel drive. This is a supercar that loves corners and the all-wheel drive actively helps put the power down on the road to great effect, sucking it to the surface and forcing it out of corners with amazing pace. The steering is keenly judged for weight and feel, while the ride copes with all that British roads can throw at it without it sulking. You'll also find the Gallardo LP560-4 is just the right size for a supercar without being too wide for UK roads. Inside, the LP560-4 carries on the good work of Lamborghinis of recent times. The Audi-inspired cabin is made to a very high standard and everything is easy to read and reach, which is not always the case in supercars. There's even an optional reversing camera to help when parking and the front suspension can be raised up to help the Lambo over speed humps, so this is one supercar that can hack the daily grind.

Should I call the bank manager?

If you want one of the most outlandish and sensational supercars on the planet, get phoning the man with the money now. You'll need a very understanding bank manager, though, and combined economy of 20.6mpg could be become tiresome - not so much for the cost (as those that can afford it won't worry), but more for the regularity of fill-ups. Even so, this is a more economical, cleaner supercar than the previous Gallardo by some margin. It's comfortable, well equipped and even has a splash of practicality thanks to the front boot. However, beware the tempting though costly options, such as ceramic brake discs and reversing camera.

Summary

Lamborghini has a history of building the most exciting and best looking supercars in the world and the Gallardo LP560-4 fits right into that portfolio. It does away with the delicacy of the previous Gallardo and ushers in a menacing new look that sits just right. It's also superb to drive and will have you looking over your shoulder every time you walk away, which is exactly what a supercar should do.

Alisdair Suttie