Skip advert
Advertisement

Lamborghini Aventador SV review – engine and gearbox

The lighter, faster version of the Aventador delivers a truly thrilling supercar driving experience

Evo rating
  • Dramatic styling, performance, dynamics
  • Outdated gearbox, unyielding seats

Engine and Gearbox

The Aventador SV’s 6498cc normally aspirated V12 is its centre piece. At a time when many other supercar manufacturers are switching to forced induction in the pursuit of improved fuel economy, the SV’s rev-hungry twelve-cylinder reminds us what we’ll lose when turbocharging is adopted across the board. 

With a redline set at 8500rpm the SV’s engine is as exciting and dramatic as performance car power units get. Throttle response is immediate, the performance is mighty and the soundtrack is befitting of the outlandish exterior styling. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

Compared to standard Aventador power has risen by 50bhp, although the peak torque figure – 509lb ft at 5500rpm – remains the same.

The SV’s gearbox has been improved over early Aventadors. Its low-speed manners have been refined and the shift strategy around town is no longer quite so wayward and frustrating. At higher speeds, though, the gearbox lacks the immediacy of the latest twin-clutch units and there is a perceptible interruption in acceleration as the ‘box shuffles into the new cog. 

The SV’s gearbox is a blot in an otherwise flawless supercar technical specification – carbon fibre tub, in-board suspension, normally-aspirated V12 engine and so on – but it would be unfair to suggest that the car is ruined by its outdated transmission. 

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Best hybrid cars 2025 – the benefits of EV and petrol power
Best hybrid cars 2025
Best cars

Best hybrid cars 2025 – the benefits of EV and petrol power

Hybrids are the perfect compromise for manufacturers and buyers at the moment, keeping petrol power for versatility and customer appeal but adding an …
31 Mar 2025
Honda Civic Type R (FN2) – the car world's greatest misses
Honda Civic Type R FN2
Features

Honda Civic Type R (FN2) – the car world's greatest misses

Its lineage contains some hot hatch greats, but the late-noughties Civic wasn’t one of them
26 Mar 2025
2025 VED car tax: what you'll be paying
VED car tax 2025
Advice

2025 VED car tax: what you'll be paying

The latest car tax changes explained, including new pricing for EVs and hybrids and increased prices for higher-emission vehicles
1 Apr 2025