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Lamborghini Eyes a Rear-Wheel-Drive Temerario
Lamborghini is already preparing a high-performance follow-up to the Huracan, and the brand's product line chief Paolo Racchetti has not ruled out a rear-wheel-drive version of the new Temerario. In a recent conversation with The Drive, Racchetti confirmed that while the Temerario was engineered around an all-wheel-drive architecture, different configurations are under active consideration to broaden the model's appeal.
Why an RWD Temerario makes sense
The core argument for a rear-wheel-drive Temerario is straightforward: reducing weight and sharpening driver engagement. The current design uses a front-mounted electric drive that contributes to the all-wheel-drive system; even in Sport mode around 10 percent of drive torque is still routed to the front axle to enhance stability. Racchetti described the front electric axle as a modern successor to Lamborghini's earlier mechanical AWD systems, but removing it would deliver lower mass and a purer, more traditional supercar feel.
A more radical interpretation would go further: eliminate not only the front electric unit but also the rear electric motor and high-voltage battery, allowing the internal combustion engine to power the car solo. That would echo previous Lamborghini rear-drive charters such as the Huracan LP 580-2, the hardcore Huracan STO and the limited-run STJ, each of which offered a different balance of poise, grip and drama.
Engine, transmission and performance highlights
The Temerario packs a bespoke hot-V 4.0-liter V8 that is mechanically distinct from the Urus powerplant. It is a high-revving engine that peaks at very lofty rpm levels: maximum power is rated at 789 hp (800 cv) with peak torque of 538 lb-ft (730 Nm). Power delivery and the redline are tuned for an exhilarating character, with the mill revving to just over 10,000 rpm and being among the highest-revving turbocharged V8s in current series production. A Graziano-supplied gearbox is mounted transversely behind the engine, emphasizing the car's mid-engined layout and track-capable focus.
Key spec highlights:
- Engine: 4.0-liter hot-V V8, flat-plane characteristics
- Power: 789 hp (800 cv)
- Torque: 538 lb-ft (730 Nm)
- Transaxle: Graziano transverse gearbox
- Front drive contribution: roughly 10% in Sport mode when AWD is active
Track-ready variants and heritage
Lamborghini has a history of spinning off sharper, lighter, rear-drive variants of its V10-era cars. The Huracan lineage included the LP 580-2, STO and more recent STJ — the latter a 10-unit, homologation-style special that borrowed heavily from Super Trofeo mid-engined race tech, including motorsport-derived suspension and a more aggressive wing that boosted rear downforce by about 10 percent over the STO. The STJ also came shod with Bridgestone Potenza Race tires and shaved more than a second on Nardo's handling circuit versus earlier Hurcans.
Racchetti suggested that Lamborghini engineers are examining multiple avenues: a pure RWD Temerario, a track-focused Performante-like derivative, or a lighter hybrid solution that drops only the front electric motor. Each choice comes with trade-offs in weight, dynamics, emissions and market positioning.
Market positioning and demand
The Temerario replaces one of Lamborghini's volume supercars and is already proving popular. It sits as the second best-selling model in the current lineup behind the Urus SUV, and Lamborghini reports order books filled out into 2026. That healthy demand gives the company flexibility to offer niche, high-performance variants that may be limited in production but highly desirable among collectors and enthusiasts.
Highlights from Racchetti
- 'Different schools of thought are exploring viable solutions' on RWD vs AWD.
- Removing the front electric unit could be a quick path to significant weight savings.
Whether Lamborghini ultimately offers a rear-wheel-drive Temerario remains undecided, but the ingredients are there: a screaming V8, a modular drivetrain architecture, and a market eager for both extreme track cars and purist supercars.
Source: autoevolution
Comments
v8rider
Wow a RWD Temerario? Now thats the kind of raw Lambo I want. Lose the front motor, keep the V8 scream. Track chaos, no compromises pls
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