Used Lamborghini Urus: Best Model Year to Buy?

[supersix]

Looking into purchasing a used Lamborghini Urus and I’d appreciate any advice. What model year offers the best balance of performance, features, and reliability? Have there been any big changes over the years that make certain years better than others?

 

[Dragoon]

The Urus launched in 2018 (as a 2019 model in most markets) and has seen incremental updates, with a significant mid-cycle refresh in 2022-2023 and the introduction of a hybrid variant in 2025. Here’s how the years stack up:

2019-2021: The Early Years

• Performance: Powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 641 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. It hits 0-60 mph in about 3.5-3.6 seconds with a top speed of 190 mph. This is blisteringly quick for an SUV and still competitive today.
• Features: Early models came well-equipped with adaptive air suspension, carbon-ceramic brakes, rear-wheel steering, and six driving modes (Strada, Sport, Corsa, Sabbia, Terra, Neve). The infotainment is a triple-screen setup borrowed from the VW Group (Audi Q8, Porsche Cayenne), functional but not as flashy as later updates. Options like the Pearl Capsule (2021) added wild colors and 23-inch wheels.
• Reliability: As the first model years, 2019-2021 Uruses had some teething issues. Owners reported minor electrical glitches (infotainment lag, sensor malfunctions), transmission hesitations, and rare but notable cases of turbo lag or exhaust rust. Recalls included fuel leaks, rearview camera failures, and seat belt issues, though these were addressed under warranty. High-mileage examples (e.g., 200k+ miles reported by some owners) suggest durability if maintained, but repair costs are steep due to premium parts and labor.
• Why Buy?: These years offer the lowest entry price (around $180k-$220k USD for a used 2019-2020 now) and deliver the core Urus experience. They’re a solid pick if you prioritize value and can handle potential early-model quirks with a good service history.

2022-2023: Mid-Cycle Boost (Urus S and Performante)

• Performance: In 2022, Lamborghini upped the ante. The base Urus evolved into the Urus S, and the Performante variant debuted. Both get 657 hp (a 16 hp bump), shaving 0-60 mph to 3.5 seconds for the S and 3.3 seconds for the Performante. The Performante swaps air springs for steel coils, lowers the ride height by 0.8 inches, and adds a Rally mode for dirt-slinging antics. It also set a Pikes Peak SUV record, proving its track chops.
• Features: Exterior tweaks include a sharper front bumper, new hood, and revised taillights. The Performante leans into carbon-fiber trim (saving ~100 lbs) and offers grippy Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires. Inside, you get updated Alcantara options and Performante-specific stitching. Tech stays VW Group-derived but feels more polished.
• Reliability: By 2022, most early bugs were ironed out. Fewer complaints surface about electronics or mechanicals, though the Performante’s stiffer suspension and track-focused tires wear faster and amplify road harshness—something to consider if you’re not chasing apexes daily. Maintenance remains costly (e.g., $900 oil changes at dealers), but the platform’s VW Group roots (shared with the Audi RS Q8) suggest decent longevity with care.
• Why Buy?: The 2023 Urus S strikes a sweet spot—refined, powerful, and versatile, with air suspension for comfort. The Performante is the enthusiast’s choice, trading some practicality for razor-sharp handling. Used prices hover around $230k-$280k, reflecting their upgrades and lower mileage.

2024-2025: Hybrid Era (Urus SE)

• Performance: The 2025 Urus SE introduces a plug-in hybrid setup: a 620-hp V8 plus a 192-hp electric motor, totaling 789 hp. It claims 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds and adds ~37 miles of electric range (likely 21 miles EPA). Non-hybrid S and Performante continued into 2024 with 657 hp before phasing out.
• Features: The SE gets a facelift—new headlights, a power-dome hood, and a beefier rear diffuser. Inside, a 12.3-inch driver display joins the tech suite. It’s the most advanced Urus yet, with hybrid-specific modes enhancing versatility.
• Reliability: Too new for extensive data (as of February 19, 2025), but the hybrid system borrows from the Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, which has a solid track record. Added complexity (battery, motor) could mean higher repair costs long-term, though early adopters report no major issues. Non-hybrid 2024 models carry over the 2023’s proven reliability.
• Why Buy?: The SE is cutting-edge but pricey ($245k-$275k new; used ones barely exist yet). Opt for a 2024 S or Performante if you want the latest non-hybrid refinements at a discount (~$240k-$290k used).

Best Model Year Recommendation

For the best balance of performance, features, and reliability, target a 2023 Urus S:

• Why: It refines the early models’ rough edges, boosts power to 657 hp, and keeps the air suspension for daily comfort—unlike the Performante’s hardcore setup. It’s modern enough to feel current but old enough to dodge the hybrid’s untested longevity and steep price. Reliability seems strong, with fewer reported issues than 2019-2021.
• Price: Expect $230k-$260k used, depending on mileage (10k-30k miles typical) and options.
• Caveats: Check service records—neglected maintenance can lead to turbo or brake wear. Avoid heavily modified examples unless you trust the work.

Key Changes to Consider

• 2019-2021: Cheapest entry, rawest experience, but riskier reliability.
• 2022-2023: Power bump, styling refresh, and Performante’s track edge—peak non-hybrid Urus.
• 2025: Hybrid leap adds power and efficiency but introduces complexity and cost.

 

[El Chorizo]

Looking into purchasing a used Lamborghini Urus and I’d appreciate any advice. What model year offers the best balance of performance, features, and reliability? Have there been any big changes over the years that make certain years better than others?

I'm curious about this myself. Where is the good year "floor" so to speak. What are the pitfalls of certain years. Definitely looking for best bang for the buck as far as used vehicles and don't want to get into any pitfalls.