2008 Lamborghini Gallardo: Road Test
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Our road test for the 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo help you decide if a 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 8.9 |
Scorching. According to Lamborghini, the Superleggera's grab 'n go combination of all-wheel drive and 522 hp nets a 0-60-mph time of about 3.8 seconds--and that's believable. Our test Superleggera had the automated manual transmission, which makes that figure easily attainable as you simply floor the gas pedal and hang on. There was just a bit of a delay when mashing the throttle from a stop before the system engaged the automatic clutch. But from then on, acceleration was explosive, with crisp upshifts whether letting the transmission shift itself or shifting manually with the steering-wheel paddles. Downshifts were also executed quickly and smoothly, whether done automatically or manually.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2.4 |
We've had no opportunity to measure fuel economy, but the EPA ratings of 10 to 11 in the city and 17 highway aren't encouraging--especially if you make even occasional use of the monumental power available. Gallardos require premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 5.4 |
Not as harsh as might be expected. Though the test-drive route didn't include any snow-belt potholes, most regular road imperfections were noticed but not jolting. Unless your commute includes some really rough pavement, the Superleggera would not be unduly punishing as an everyday driver.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 8.2 |
Sharp steering response, flat cornering, and copious grip give the Superleggera a greater degree of handling capability than most people would have the courage to fully explore. Unless they'd stolen it.
QUIETNESS
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 5.4 |
Five hundred-plus horses make quite a commotion when allowed to run free--and they're galloping right behind your head--but the resulting decibels are more stimulating than annoying. The engine generates a constant background whine even at cruise, but wind noise isn't overly objectionable at any legal speed, nor is road noise.
CONTROLS
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.1 |
Main gauges are directly in front of the driver, with ancillary units positioned high atop the dash. Audio and climate controls are in a slanted panel that places them within easy reach. Only the dash vents require a long stretch to adjust. With the automated manual transmission, initial gear selection is made by pressing the proper console button; in manual mode, shifts are accomplished with handy steering-wheel paddles.
DETAILS
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 8.1 |
Suede and carbon fiber were the predominant interior materials on our test vehicle, and the combination resulted in a rich but sporty ambiance befitting a car of this monetary magnitude.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 6.6 |
Ingress and egress can be awkward even for the svelte and limber, the biggest obstacle being the wide door sills. But once inside, there's adequate room for all but the very large, and the seat and driving position are quite comfortable. Despite the low-set seats, the cursed "sitting in a bathtub" feeling is avoided, partly due to decent forward visibility. Anything aft of your shoulders, however, is lost behind thick roof pillars and a tiny, nearly useless rear window, making backing out of parking spots a nerve-wracking proposition--and the available rearview camera a valuable addition.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 0 | 3.5 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2.8 |
Pack light. The front-mounted trunk is only large enough for a small, right-sized suitcase or a couple of gym bags, and shirts with big pockets are recommended traveling attire, as there's virtually no interior storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6 |
Gallardo has few equals in terms of performance and even fewer superiors, with its main claim to fame being an all-wheel-drive system that gives it a confidence-inspiring edge, particularly on slick surfaces. It also makes the Gallardo a more practical "everyday" car, or at least one that can be enjoyed more often.
Total Score
| Superleggera, automated manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 53 | 63.4 |
Total Score: 53
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