Lamborghini on Tuesday launched a new rear-wheel drive version of its popular Huracan, offering drivers what it calls a more "intense" and "emotional" driving experience.
The supercar, called the Huracan LP 580-2, allows buyers to perform power slides, drifts and other rubber-burning road theatrics, which are more difficult to pull off in the standard all-wheel drive version.
The LP 580-2 is also lighter and stiffer than the regular Huracan. And while it's slightly slower from a standing start — going from 0 to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds instead of 3.2 — it's also cheaper.
The U.S. suggested retail price for the LP 580-2 is a mere $201,100, including taxes. That compares with roughly $240,000 for the all-wheel-drive Huracan.
While cost savings are a benefit, the rear-wheel-powered Huracan is designed to put more fun — and some would say, danger — into a world of sports cars that is increasingly being dominated by hyper-controlled and electronically operated speedsters.
The car also has some ramped-up design features, including wider tires, a more aggressive front end and big air intakes — leading some in the automotive world to label it a "hard-core" Huracan.
"It is maximum driving fun," said Stephan Winkelmann, president and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. "It's appealing to those wanting an even more intense driving experience. This is the purest expression of a Lamborghini to date, with class-leading technological refinements."
The car's V10 5.2-liter engine sends 580 horsepower to the rear axle. Weighing in at roughly 3,000 pounds, it's about 72 pounds lighter than the standard Huracan. It's also got a new steering setup for more precise turning.
Lambo has done well with rear-wheel drive vehicles in the past, including the popular Gallardo sports car and the limited-edition, rear-powered Huracan called the 620-2 Super Trofeo, designed for racetracks.
The automaker hasn't yet announced when the Huracan LP 580-2 will start being delivered.