Taking the Lamborghini Huracan to the next level is what the Huracan Performante is all about.  Upping the ante in all areas of performance the Lamborghini team attack engine, steering, suspension and more.  How is this achieved, it is more than just horsepower.  The use of lightweight materials is one, their award-winning forged composites lace the exterior and interior of the car.  All this translates to improved performance and driving experience.  And it does this looking so good!

The latest model under the microscope is the 1:18 Lamborghini Huracan Performante by AUTOart.  The model features full 360 access and is constructed in composite and diecast metal.  We went with the Blue Cepheus/Pearl Blue exterior with Black wheels.  This is one of many colours available forthcoming from the brand.  Please review the AUTOart news feed on the website to learn more.

The Blue Cepheus/Pearl Blue exterior is just stunning in person.  Our basic photography skills captured it okay, but first impressions in person will provide a grander experience.  As for overall design, we give AUTOart high marks for their translation into scale.  Based on the images we studied the team does a very credible job.

Panel gaps and shutlines have been a topic of discussion with the Performante.  Our example is pretty good overall.  The front storage hatch does display larger than preferred gaps, but in AUTOart’s defence so does the 1:1, and we defend them lightly as the aforementioned move to composite was to obtain better overall accuracy and tightness.

As we move to the front, we get our first up-close look at the forged composites within the lower chin spoiler.  All lover elements of the front bumper are all opened to reveal the backend cooling components.  Again, high marks to AUTOart for great overall execution.  We even find the small logo in the centre on the lower spoiler ‘ALA’.  It is defined as follows: Aerodinamica Lamborghini Attiva – part of the DRS system.  You’ll even find this logo on display on the rear spoiler arms too.

Access to the storage area is provided.  Nice work on the hinges and strut supports.  Our example was flawless in operation.  As for the inner detail, there is no flocking provided and the upper right grille is nowhere to be found.  Definitely a cost-cutting effort.

The rear of the Performante is just littered with the forged composite materials, we think it looks great!  Large upper spoiler definitely confirms the don’t mess with me attitude.  All lower grilles are fully perforated.  This is always welcomed.  Moving forward the model provides access to the powerplant

Accessing the hatch operation is slightly tricky based on the large rear spoiler.  We found the best route is using a small hobby tool from underneath the spoiler.  Hatch operation on our example was a little sticky, nothing too serious.  Nice work by AUTOart on adding a small metal grille on the lower section of the hatch (each side) – one is visible on the image above.  On the flip side, we noticed a secondary strut support fitting point on the right side of the hatch.  Was this a mistake during production as the Performante only has one – see image below.

As for the motor section the surrounding bits are once again executed with forged composites – sorry our photos aren’t the best, the material aligns with what is shown in the rear spoiler – notice this is the top right section.  The block and related bits are decent but nothing over the top.  Have you seen the recent photos we posted of the upcoming Maisto Performante?  Well, the AUTOart is better, but maybe 2-3 notches ahead.  We are disappointed and rightly so, based on the last few models we reviewed by the brand, better efforts are found with the McLaren 675LT and Lamborghini Centenario.

Wheels are a thing of beauty on the model.  Black finish on the honeycomb design rim works well with the ultra low-profile tires.  The tires themselves have the cool pin stripping and Pirelli script.  Just behind the large Yellow callipers are mated to carbon-ceramic rotors.  Overall execution is solid here.

Inside the Performante there is treat for composite fans, once again the weight saving forged composite material is in full effect.  Thumbs up to AUTOart, we think it looks great.  Full flocking is present as well as is the Yellow design and Performante script on the seats.  Where the model loses some lustre is the lack of Alcantara.  AUTOart basically chooses a Flat Grey approach, which is texture free.

There is more good than bad with the AUTOart Huracan Performante.  Yes, some cost-cutting measures were taken to keep the production cost down.  Based on a couple of other recent reviews by our team, the McLaren 675LT and Lamborghini Centenario, this one would be ranked as a solid number three.  The model does provide a full 360 approach, and that speaks volumes to us and we’re sure many collectors out there would agree.  And to date, it is the only example where one can experience a full opening example.  The alternative option will be the budget-friendly Maisto version soon to come.  At the end of the day, what motives your passion is paramount, and the AUTOart Huracan Performante does that on more levels than not.  Enjoy the pics.