Volkswagen is facing some tough choices as the German auto giant is preparing to embark on an ambitious turnaround plan that might see it possibly sell Lamborghini and other brands.

Lamborghini has so far proven to be a shiny gem in VW’s portfolio and the Italian supercar maker aims to add more luster to its name with the all-new Urus SE Performante.

Urus SE Performante is more of everything

The Urus SE Performante started life as a standard SE model. However, it has been to the gym, with Lamborghini engineers giving it a number of upgrades that it says, makes this variant the most powerful Urus ever built. When you look at the raw numbers, it certainly seems that way with the Performante making 800 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque from its PHEV equipped twin-turbo V8. These figures allow the SUV to sprint its way to 62 mph in 3.3 seconds before topping out at 194 mph.

The V8 is accompanied by a small electric motor with a 25.9 kWh battery pack providing it a steady flow of electrons. The electric motor also allows the Performante (if you must) to drive up to 37 miles on all-electric power alone, though expect the bulk of buyers to use the electric motor to spice up their acceleration times. An eight-speed automatic continues to be the lone transmission available, but it’s been tweaked for improved responsiveness. All-wheel drive is standard and an electronically controlled center clutch comes along for the ride too. Handling is also upgraded thanks to a reworked air suspension.

Lighter and better than ever

In addition to all the muscle under the hood, the Urus SE Performante also benefits from several functional upgrades to the exterior. There’s a healthy infusion of carbon fiber to help cut 70 lbs of weight including on the hood, roof, and side skirts. A new Akrapovič exhaust system helps cut 22 lbs and the NVH package cuts a further 7.7 lbs. While the resulting 5,452 curb weight may still seem a bit porky, it’s a noticeable weight loss when compared to the standard SE.

Lamborghini didn’t share any details on interior changes beyond a few photos, but look for the Performante’s cabin to follow the same basic script as the Urus SE with the space featuring bespoke materials and body hugging seats to help keep the whole family firmly supported when the trip to school involves going through some sharp corners.

Pricing was also not announced, but with the prior Performante starting at $270,000 and a base SE firmly in the $252,000 range, it would not be shocking to see this SE Performante potentially go past $280,000.

What’s next?

The appearance of the SE Performante comes at a key time for Lamborghini. As mentioned, parent company Volkswagen is navigating some big problems, and is rumored to be preparing to cut as many as 100,000 jobs while also closing four plants. Reports have suggested the company is also exploring selling assets including Lamborghini.

While the actual sale of Lamborghini or any other brand is highly unlikely at the moment due to Lambo in particular being very profitable for VW. It does make you wonder what would happen to the Urus if VW cut the brand loose from its empire?