In recent years, the world of luxury and high-performance vehicles has witnessed an exhilarating new trend: off-roading supercars. For those who appreciate high-speed performance and the rugged challenge of off-road adventures, these vehicles offer the best of both worlds. Get ready to explore the most thrilling and capable supercars that redefine what it means to drive off the beaten path.
Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato
The Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato, a groundbreaking innovation in the world of supercars, explores a new frontier in driving pleasure by merging high-performance with off-road capabilities. The name "Sterrato," meaning "dirt" in Italian, aptly reflects its design and purpose.
The concept of the Sterrato was born during an informal gathering of Lamborghini engineers and designers who, after a day of off-roading in a prototype of the Urus SUV, envisioned the thrill of driving an all-wheel-drive supercar off-road. This idea transformed into a serious project, pushing the boundaries of what a Lamborghini could be.
The Sterrato's journey from concept to reality marks a significant milestone for Lamborghini. Announced almost 60 years after Ferruccio Lamborghini founded the company, the Sterrato represents a blend of innovation and tradition. It is equipped with a dedicated iteration of the Lamborghini Integrated Vehicle Dynamics (LDVI) system, featuring specific Strada and Sport calibrations, and a new Rally mode for optimized off-road performance.
The Sterrato boasts a 44mm increase in ground clearance and special Bridgestone run-flat tires that enhance its ability to handle off-road conditions. Under the hood lies a 5.2-liter V10 engine delivering 602 hp through a seven-speed twin-clutch gearbox. This combination ensures it can handle rough terrains while maintaining the thrilling performance expected from a Lamborghini. It offers three driving modes: Strada (Street), Sport, and Rally, making it versatile for both on-road and off-road adventures. The car accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 160 mph.
On asphalt, the Sterrato delivers a smooth and fast driving experience, retaining the roar of its V10 engine. Its off-road capabilities are equally impressive, with the Rally mode providing a unique driving experience by favoring power to the rear wheels and allowing for controlled drifts and seamless handling of dirt tracks. This mode, combined with the permanent AWD and advanced suspension, makes the Sterrato a formidable off-road supercar.
The Sterrato is not just about performance; it also features practical enhancements like an air intake on the rear hood, front underbody protection, and increased track width. These elements enhance its rugged appearance and functionality, ensuring it can withstand the demands of off-road driving.
900-mile, 2023 Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato available on mph.com
Porsche 911 Dakar
Porsche has a rich history in rallying, particularly with its iconic 911 model. This includes winning the Paris-Dakar Rally in 1984 and 1986. The 911 Dakar pays homage to these escapades, celebrating Porsche's success in some of the world's toughest off-road challenges.
Technical Specifications:
The Porsche 911 Dakar builds upon the foundation of the 911 Carrera 4 GTS, enhancing it with several modifications tailored for off-road performance. Key specifications include:
Engine: GTS-spec 480PS (353kW) twin-turbo flat-six.
Ground Clearance: Increased by 50mm compared to the standard Carrera S, with an additional lift system for even greater clearance.
Tires: Special Pirelli Scorpion tires designed for optimal grip on various surfaces.
Transmission: Eight-speed PDK gearbox.
Performance: 0-62 mph in 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 149 mph.
Top Speed: 149 mph
The Dakar also introduces new driving modes: Rallye, which directs 80% of power to the rear wheels for dynamic handling on low-grip surfaces, and Offroad, which ensures maximum traction with a more balanced torque distribution.
While the Dakar may not match the Huracan Sterrato's top speed of 160 mph, it compensates with superior handling in rough terrains. The inclusion of rear-wheel steering and specialized off-road modes enhances its performance on challenging surfaces.
Despite added features like the lift kit and off-road tires, the Dakar maintains a respectable weight of 3538 lbs., thanks to weight-saving measures such as carbon bucket seats, thinner glass, and a lithium-ion battery.
The 911 Dakar stands out with its arch extensions, towing eyes, stainless steel underbody cladding, and a unique carbon spoiler. The GT3-inspired carbon bonnet, raised suspension, and bespoke Pirelli tires complete its rugged yet refined look. Additionally, the Dakar offers practical accessories like an integrated roof rack with spotlights and an optional roof tent, making it versatile for adventurous journeys.
Single Owner 2024 Porsche 911 Dakar for sale at mph.com
Lamborghini Urus (Off-Road Package)
Lamborghini is renowned for unleashing the power of its super sports cars, but what about driving on challenging terrains? Enter the Lamborghini Urus. This Super SUV offers the thrill of a Lamborghini even on the most difficult surfaces, thanks to its 650 CV V8 biturbo engine and ANIMA selector.
The Urus can be equipped with an Off-Road Package, enhancing its performance on sand, soil, and snow. This package includes reinforced stainless steel bumpers, brushed steel exhaust tips, and adjustable ground clearance for tackling obstacles. It also adds TERRA and SABBIA modes to the ANIMA selector, optimizing the car's systems for off-road conditions.
The Urus, powered by a 650 horsepower twin-turbo 4.0L V8, accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 190 mph. Its ground clearance, at 248 mm, offers better approach and departure angles compared to most pickups.
Explore the latest Lamborghini Urus models on mph.com
Project Maybach Concept
The Project Maybach is a novel concept that combines luxury with off-road potential. Created in collaboration between Gorden Wagener, Mercedes-Benz's Chief Design Officer, and the late Virgil Abloh, founder of Off-White and former creative director of Louis Vuitton, the Project Maybach stands as a tribute to Abloh's innovative design philosophy. This off-roader is a stark departure from traditional Maybach models, featuring a unique, rugged design that includes rows of LED halo lights on both the bull bars and the roof rack, and a striking front end reminiscent of Rolls-Royce.
Innovative Features
Roll Cage: Unlike most luxury cars, the roll cage of the Project Maybach is prominently displayed on the exterior, providing both aesthetic appeal and added safety.
Solar Panels: The hood-mounted solar panels are a nod to sustainability, seamlessly integrated into the design to extend the vehicle's range.
Maybach Branded Ax: A unique feature of the Project Maybach is the inclusion of a branded ax, stored just behind the driver's seat. This is covered by a glass panel with "Emergency use only" inscribed, adding both a practical tool and a conversation piece to the vehicle.
Attachable Roof Tent: For those looking to take their adventures to the next level, the Project Maybach comes with a roof rack that supports an attachable tent. This tent, complete with an extendable canopy, transforms the vehicle into a luxurious overland rig.
While the Project Maybach is a concept vehicle and does not have a functional drivetrain, it is designed to showcase the potential of an all-electric luxury off-roader. The hypothetical specifications suggest an engine capable of delivering substantial power and off-road performance, complemented by features like the specialized BFGoodrich tires on 17" rims for tackling rough terrains.
The impact of the Project Maybach extends beyond its concept status, as revealed by the limited production run of Maybach S-Classes inspired by its design. The Limited Edition Maybach by Virgil Abloh honors the designer's vision by incorporating numerous design elements from the Off-Roader concept, such as the unique Colorado beige and black two-tone paint scheme.
This project not only pays homage to Abloh's creative genius but also signals a bold new direction for luxury off-road vehicles.
2023 Maybach S680 by Virgil Abloh available for sale at mph.com
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