Frankfurt show: Lambo Aventador S Roadster revealed

LAMBORGHINI has revealed ithe new Aventador S Roadster ahead of its public debut at next week’s Frankfurt motor show, combining open-top motoring with its gargantuan 544kW/690Nm 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 motor.

Although no Australian pricing has been announced for the new model, expect the all-wheel-drive Aventador S Roadster to sit north of its $788,914 before on-roads fixed-roof sibling – which was revealed at this year’s Detroit motor show.

Despite the near seven-figure pricetag, buyers will need to remove the lid manually with each of the convex hard-roof components latching in place either above the seats or stowed away in the front trunk.

If, however, passengers still find the roar of the mid-mounted V12 engine still too hard to hear without a roof, the rear window compartment to the motor can also be opened for an unobstructed aural sensation.

Aside from the convertible bodystyle, Aventador S Roadsters can be also be differentiated from Coupes by a newly-designed engine cover which is finished in a mix of matte black and the body colour. A transparent cover can also be optioned.

Despite a 50kg weight penalty (six of which belong to the roof) thanks to structural reinforcements needed in order to remove the top, the Aventador S Roadster can still accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.0 seconds – 0.1s slower than the Coupe.

Top speed is electronically limited to ‘just’ 350km/h in both models, with power fed through a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Mirroring its fixed-roof sibling, the Aventador S Roadster also gains updated active suspension, four-wheel steering, a new Ego driving mode and tweaked electronic control systems when compared with its predecessor.

The pushrod suspension now uses new rear springs and real-time variable damping, while also being adapted to work in conjunction with Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS) four-wheel steering system for improved low speed manoeuvrability and high speed stability.

The electronic stability control (ESC) software has also been tweaked to take into account the new rear-axle steering and is calibrated to split torque front and rear to maximise stability.

In addition to the Strada, Sport and Corsa driving modes – which increasingly turn steering, suspension and traction management from soft to hardcore – the Aventador S Roadster also gains a new Ego mode which allows drivers to individually adjust each setting.

Standard equipment on the Aventador S Roadster includes carbon ceramic brakes, double staggered 20x9 and 21x13 inch Dione wheels wrapped in 255/30 and 355/25 Pirelli P Zero rubber, heated mirrors and Apple CarPlay-enabled entertainment and information system.

Personalisation will also be one of the Aventador S Roadster’s key appeals according to Lamborghini, with its Ad Personam customisation department offering tweaks to both the exterior and interior.

Five cabin colours are available with a mix of leather and Alcantara finishes, but according to the brand, “further external and internal packages such as ‘branding’ and ‘carbon-fibre’ are offered, with the Ad Personam program for clients wanting to customise their Aventador S Roadster even further”.

Lamborghini chairman and chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali said the new model perfectly blends supercar performance with open-air motoring.

“The new Aventador S Roadster sets new benchmarks in technology and performance on both road and track, with the roadster version adding a new dimension in driving enjoyment,” he said.

“The Aventador S Roadster offers the thrill of open air driving without compromising on driving dynamics or the occupants’ comfort, and adds a further luxurious dimension through the personalisation options available.”