Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 5.2 Litre 2dr Car Review - February 2012

Run on super unleaded fuel, this sporty car offers an exceptional power output of 552 bhp at 8000 rpm with torque figures of 398 lb-ft at 6500 rpm. Mileage is restricted to 20 mpg which is pretty average for a sportscar.

The Gallardo LP560-4 also beats one its main rivals, the Ferrari California, on almost every aspect. The top speed of the Lamborghini is higher with 202 mph compared to the Ferrari’s 193 mph whilst acceleration figures are marginally faster – reaching 0-62 mph in just 3.7 seconds.

Four wheel drive gives drivers excellent control over the vehicle and road grip is strong to provide a comfortable yet secure driving experience. The V10 engine sets an impressive pace on the road and gives the Lamborghini an exceptional backing track. However, this can make it difficult for the sound system to be heard whilst driving.

Both exterior and interior style is attractive within this model, offering the stunning aesthetics expected from cars of this class. Standard driving tech is as would be expected with power steering, central locking, alloy wheels, climate control and leather seats all offered.

However, common additions such as Bluetooth connectivity and sat nav systems still incur additional fees, perhaps disappointing those with high expectations over the in-car tech.

This 2 seat model offers a comfortable drive through good driving positions. The lack of additional seating or boot space means the driver and passenger are unrestricted in terms of movement, making long drives comfortable.

An essential for those investing in such an expensive model, the Gallardo LP560-4 comes fitted with driver, passenger and front side airbags as standard alongside an alarm and immobiliser. Stability control is another standard feature but a rear parking camera incurs additional costs.
A four year warranty is also available on unlimited mileage.

Engineered by Lamborghini’s parent company Audi, the Gallardo benefits from superior assembly and high levels of reliability. However, the running costs of the vehicle are exceptionally high - even for a smaller sized supercar.

Falling into road tax band M and insurance bracket 50 – the highest of both ranges– the Gallardo LP560-4 has exceptionally poor green credentials with a massive carbon footprint of 327 g/km. Achieving just 20 mpg on super unleaded fuel, refuelling is both expensive and frequent.

Whilst the reliability of the Audi engineering is a huge benefit, the high running costs and a staggering purchase price of £152,280 means the value of the car depends on how highly drivers value the Lamborghini badge. However, the popularity of the vehicle and its niche status as a supercar mean resale values are likely to remain high with limited depreciation.

Targeted solely at the supercar market, the Gallardo LP560-4 is unsuitable for everyday use and is purely a recreational vehicle rather than a practical one. The 2 seat occupancy and lack of storage space means it is only suitable for short trips.

In terms of in-car tech, the model offers less than might be expected for a car with such a sizeable price tag. Whilst many features are provided as standard these are found in most everyday cars and may leave consumers underwhelmed. Some additional features such as sat nav systems still cost extra although the luxurious leather interior is a desirable standard feature.

Overall, those after a practical and efficient car will be shocked by the low mileage and poor efficiency of this model. However, considering the car isn’t targeted at this audience it is likely to prove popular within its own class by offering great performance levels which categorise it as a true supercar.