Verdict
The Gallardo was the first Lamborghini developed under Audi ownership, which means it's bulletproof; yet it loses none of its drama.

Expert rating: 3.8

Pros
• Jaw-dropping exterior styling
• Easy to drive quickly
• Good selection of models

Cons
• Supercar running costs
• Very limited practicality
• Audi controls aren't bespoke

1. Exterior: 5/5
Lamborghinis aren't for shy retiring types, and if you really want to grab attention Lamborghini will paint your car in a wide range of lurid colours. The least subtle model is the LP 570-4 Superleggera, with its large fixed rear spoiler and contrasting black detailing. Although the basic shape of the Gallardo has been around for a while now, it's still fabulous.

2. Interior: 4/5
While the Gallardo features a number of Audi-sourced controls and switches, its interior still feels special, thanks to the low-slung driving position. It seems well put together too. The LP 570-4 version features a significant amount of carbon fibre inside, which lends it an extra exotic air.

3. Practicality: 2/5
Lamborghini didn't put practicality high up its list of priorities, so the Gallardo isn't great in this respect. The Ferrari 458 Italia, for instance, has more than twice as much luggage space as the quoted 110 litres available in the nose of the Lamborghini.

4. Ride and handling: 5/5
One word could be used to sum up the Gallardo here: sublime. For the driver, the Gallardo is hugely impressive. The steering wheel feels directly connected to the front wheels for instantaneous response and the brakes are faultless. Four-wheel drive is standard on nearly all versions of the Gallardo so it's a car that is easy to drive quickly regardless of the weather or road conditions.

5. Performance: 5/5
All models are powered by a 5.2-litre V10 petrol engine. Power output varies between 552- and 562bhp depending on variant, so they all impress. The 0-62mph time is as low as 3.4 seconds, thanks in part to the traction afforded by four-wheel drive. Top speed is quoted as just over 200mph. You can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox and a 'robotised manual' with paddle shift. The latter is better at fast driving than it is in town, but it does add to the experience.

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6. Running costs: 2/5
By normal standards, the running costs of a Gallardo are prohibitively high. Insurance, tyres and servicing are all expensive, though not out of line with rivals. A few Gallardo models theoretically manage 20mpg on average, but few drivers will achieve that figure in reality so be prepared for regular fuel stops.

7. Reliability: 4/5
Audi ownership of Lamborghini has paid dividends here. The Gallardo hasn't had any real reliability issues, but it's made in too low numbers to be subjected to any of the big reliability surveys.

8. Safety: 4/5
All the essential safety equipment is standard, such as front and side airbags, stability control and anti-lock brakes. The brakes are immensely powerful and its strong structure is designed to protect occupants in a crash. The stability control system has several modes of operation that will appeal to more experienced drivers and those who use their car on track.

9. Equipment: 3/5
Lamborghini equips the Gallardo fairly generously, including leather seats and climate control, but it's easy to get carried away with the costly options list. The sat-nav system is Audi-sourced, so it's good, while the reversing camera system and fitted luggage are also tempting.

10. Why buy? 4/5
The Gallardo has few rivals. While the Ferrari 458 Italia and McLaren MP4-12C are worthy rivals, they're offered as a single model, while Lamborghini produces a good range of different Gallardos. Its four-wheel drive system sets it apart too, making it more of an all-year-round kind of junior supercar.