Lamborghini talks of “infusing” its DNA into its first ‘super sport utility vehicle’, and that’s certainly easier said than done – especially when the last model to leave Sant’Agata was the sensationally sharp Huracán Performante.

The new Urus will, of course, be judged to different criteria, but engineering an SUV at this level is a fiendishly difficult undertaking and it’s a little concerning to read the Urus will be rather portly. A kerb weight of 2200kg is not embarrassing – in fact, it’s almost an exact match for Porsche’s ballistic, and very driveable, new Porsche Cayenne Turbo – but if Lamborghini was serious about preserving something of the handling traits its other cars possess, perhaps it could have found a way to drop the Urus below two tonnes.

The best tyre technology, keenest steering and most sophisticated damping will only disguise the effects of so much weight to a degree. Consider also that they’ve had to fit 440mm carbon-ceramic brakes to the front axle (the Bugatti Veyron made do with substantially less) for an idea of the forces they’re trying to contain.

What worries me is the prospect of a 650bhp machine that’s super-stiff on account of the long wheelbase and a need to infuse that brand DNA, but has a high centre of gravity and enormous mass. It will be interesting to see what engineering concessions Lamborghini has made.

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