Lamborghini LM002, forerunner of the Urus, marks 40th anniversary

Automobili Lamborghini announced Friday that the LM002 — the brand's first super sport utility vehicle and the predecessor to the Urus — is marking its 40th anniversary.

The LM002 made its world debut at the Brussels Motor Show in January 1986. Combining the DNA of a high-performance sports car with serious off-road capability, it introduced the then-unfamiliar concept of a high-performance luxury SUV and is widely credited with laying the groundwork for today's super SUV segment.

Stephan Winkelmann, chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, said the LM002 "represents one of the roots of the Lamborghini vision today," adding that it "anticipated the concept of the super SUV well ahead of its time and inspired the design and philosophy of the current Urus family."

Development of the LM002 traces back to the late 1970s, beginning with the experimental "Cheetah" prototype and its successor, the LM001. The project took a decisive turn when engineer Giulio Alfieri proposed mounting the legendary V12 engine at the front of the vehicle. After grueling tests in environments including the Saudi Arabian desert, the final production model was completed.

The LM002 was powered by the 5,167cc V12 engine from the Lamborghini Countach Quattrovalvole, producing approximately 450 horsepower. Despite a curb weight exceeding 2,700 kilograms, it reached a top speed of 210 kilometers per hour.

A total of 300 units were produced between 1986 and 1992. Including a right-hand-drive example now on display at the Lamborghini Museum, 301 vehicles were built in all.

Despite its rugged appearance, the LM002 offered a premium interior featuring leather seats, wood trim, air conditioning and a hi-fi audio system — top-of-the-line luxury appointments by the standards of the era. It could also be fitted with a television and provided generous cargo space, giving it a practical edge as well.

Building on the high-performance SUV philosophy the LM002 pioneered, Lamborghini unveiled the Urus concept in 2012 and introduced the production Urus in 2017. The Urus drew wide attention at launch as the world's fastest SUV, with a top speed of 305 kilometers per hour.

The LM002 is currently maintained and preserved through Polo Storico, Lamborghini's dedicated heritage division.