Pros
- Drives like a Huracan in the dirt
- The most fun you can have sideways
- Oh, that V-10
Cons
- Not as good on track
- Only works on smooth dirt roads
- Limited production run
Lamborghini, in case you harbor any doubts, doesn’t need any help selling cars. The company also offers the 641-hp Urus SUV for those wanting to live out their off-road rally fantasies with Italian style. The 2023 Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato may not have a logical or practical reason to exist, but its presence undoubtedly enhances the automotive landscape.
The greatest pitfall of the Sterrato is an economic one. Few individuals get to drive a Lamborghini in the first place, and far fewer will ever experience the exhilarating wail of the world’s last naturally aspirated V-10 while sliding sideways through the sand at highway speeds. The incongruity of enjoying every moment while questioning the sensibility of it all is an experience more people should have.
As features editor Christian Seabaugh put it, “I’ve never driven a Group B rally car in the dirt, but I imagine it’s as hair-raising as this. There’s just something about looking out over its stubby nose, hearing that V-10 sing behind you as you slide sideways.”
The tuning of the Sterrato stands out as its most impressive aspect. Rather than developing numerous new parts, existing components were adjusted to provide a 1.7-inch suspension lift. The real magic lies in how all the parts were optimized to excel in environments they were initially not designed for.
Switching into Rally mode and deliberately steering down a road you’d never take another Huracan down brings immense joy. This vehicle isn’t a mere pavement princess; it’s a legitimate high-speed off-roader. Unlike other Lamborghini models, here you feel that unrestricted sideways action is natural.
However, the Sterrato’s performance is contingent on selecting the right terrain. As the dirt course began to deteriorate from use, its limitations became evident. With only 6.4 inches of ground clearance, the aluminum skidplates received a thorough workout. Although the sounds from the suspension bottoming out over larger bumps raised concerns, thankfully, there was no damage reported afterward. Softer bump stops could significantly enhance the driving experience.
As deputy editor Alexander Stoklosa noted, “Bigger holes and washboard ridges banged and pounded away at the Sterrato’s tires and underbody.” Despite the unsettling noise and vibrations during these impacts, no damage was incurred.
The Bridgestone all-terrain tires performed admirably both off-road and on, yet they revealed their limitations when pushed on the track. The Huracan is incredibly sharp, demanding to be driven aggressively, yet the tires operate only at about 80% of the ideal grip on pavement. This necessitates thoughtful driving strategies to avoid understeer, making it clear that this variant is best enjoyed on varied terrain rather than typical tracks.
On everyday roads, the Huracan Sterrato shines as a versatile vehicle. Navigating potholes, speed bumps, and steep driveways becomes effortless, providing a smooth ride compared to other variants. The remarkable V-10 engine drowns out most other noises, ensuring a thrilling driving experience.
Concerns regarding the value of advancements in design were raised, but the sheer enjoyment this factory-built, street-legal rally car incited made those concerns fade. There is hope for many more generations of the Huracan Sterrato to come, mirroring the legacy of the STO.
2023 Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 Sterrato Specifications
Base Price/As Tested | $278,972/$360,349 |
Power (SAE Net) | 602 hp @ 8,000 rpm |
Torque (SAE Net) | 413 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm |
Accel, 0-60 mph | 2.6 sec |
Quarter Mile | 10.7 sec @ 128.5 mph |
Braking, 60-0 mph | 115 ft |
Lateral Acceleration | 0.93 g (avg) |
MT Figure Eight | 24.4 sec @ 0.82 g (avg) |
EPA City/Hwy/Comb | 13/18/15 mpg |
EPA Range, Comb | 317 miles |
Vehicle Layout | Mid-engine, AWD, 2-pass, 2-door coupe |
Engine, Transmission | 5.2L direct-injected DOHC 40-valve 90-degree V-10, 7-speed twin-clutch auto |
Curb Weight (F/R Dist) | 3,653 lb (43/57%) |
Wheelbase | 103.5 in |
Length x Width x Height | 178.1 x 77.0 x 49.1 in |
On Sale | Now |