Speaking to German newspaper Handelsblatt, Winkelmann revealed Lamborghini’s goal to have an SUV as a new third model to diversify the Lamborghini line-up as soon as 2017. Suffering losses (as most supercar brands do) since 2009, Lamborghini is under pressure from parent company Volkswagen to become a profitable asset.
“We definitely need a third line in the mid- and long-term. An SUV Would be the first Lamborghini for everyday use, not just for the race track or weekends. We would have the opportunity to win new costumers,” Winkelmann explained. “It usually takes 48 months until an all-new vehicle arrives at dealers, so the new Lamborghini would not be available to buy before 2007.”
Identifying China as a key market for high-end luxury SUVs, the future Lamborghini joins VW’s line of luxury SUVs including the Volkswagen Touareg, Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne, and the in-development Bentley SUV. Other premium automakers are also catching onto the trend in China, as Land Rover intends to move upmarket with more expensive models as well.
Both Bentley and Lamborghini halo brands are expected to use an updated version of the Volkswagen Group PL71 platform. Also, to provide the intensity and level of excitement that Lamborghini is known for, the Italian marque will be using its own engines for its new vehicle, most likely a modified version of the Gallardo V10.
