Viva La Rivoluzione

The V-12 Lamborghini Aventador S Turns a Corner

- Scott Evans

The original Lamborghini Aventador had a racy pushrod suspension, but like so many previous V-12 Lamborghinis, it was far better at going fast in a straight line than negotiating a curved one. That changed with the Aventador SV and the Aventador-based Centenario. Now the revolution embraces all Aventadors. Since the Gallardo’s 2003 introduction and now with the Huracán, Lamborghini seemed content to focus its handling refinements on its smaller, lighter supercars and let the Murciélago and Aventador stick to straight-line shock and awe. But times are changing. The Aventador S is the latest in a refreshing trend in building more rounded, capable 12-cylinder Lamborghinis. And although there remains an allure to the big, angry, takes-no-prisoners Aventador, we can’t help but smile as it strikes blows against the laws of physics.

Primary responsibility for the Aventador S’ improved handling goes to a rear steering system, which can turn the rear wheels up to 1.5 degrees in phase with the front wheels for more confident high-speed cornering or up to 3.0 degrees opposite the front wheels for improved low-speed maneuvering. The system works up to the car’s 218-plus-mph drag limited top speed—not that you should turn the wheel much at such speeds.