2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder

“This button here activates the power top,” said the friendly Italian technician, as we stood outside the Lamborghini factory, getting acquainted with the marque’s newest Gallardo variant. “Press this to lower the rear window, which also acts as the wind blocker. The heated seats are here, this group of controls operates the nav system, and when you select Reverse, the backup camera is activated automatically.”

Backup camera? Heated seats? IN A LAMBORGHINI? When I first began testing the hardware from Sant’Agata Bolognese (just north of Modena, Italy’s famous Motor Valley), you’d be lucky if the engine fired three times in a row and then didn’t overheat. The power windows may work, but if not, just turn on the A/C. Which may work. Or not. Times have SO changed.

The Gallardo coupe received its midlife rebirth as the LP 560-4 last year, so it makes sense that the Spyder convertible follow that path. That means more power, sportier handling, reduced mechanical friction in the powertrain, even more aggressive design touches, and an upgraded interior and electronics. The number in the model name isn’t random, the Gallardo’s original 5.0-liter V-10 now increased to 5.2 liters and punching out 560 metric horsepower (it’s actually 412 kilowatts, which translates to 552 SAE net American-style ponies). Besides the displacement increase, other power adders include the switch to direct fuel injection and an updated engine-management system, which combine to improve mileage, reduce emissions, and sharpen throttle response.

Sourced via Motortrend.com