The Gallardo LP560-4 will build on the success of the most recent evolution of the mid-size model's range, the Gallardo Superleggera, which was presented in Geneva a year ago and boasted 530 bhp coupled to a weight saving of 100 kg.

Automobili Lamborghini will reveal the Gallardo LP560-4 on the occasion of the 78th Geneva Motor Show next week, a comprehensive facelift to the V10 engined coupé which was first introduced in 2003.

The name given to the new car, Gallardo LP560-4 reflects that power has been increased to 560 PS, while the '4' refers to the model's usual four-wheel-drive traction. The LP (longitudinale posteriore) designation denotes the engine positioning and extends the use of the tag across the range from the Murciélago LP640 Coupé and Spyder.

The hike in power for the Gallardo range comes as Lamborghini feels the heat from Ferrari's new 430 Scuderia sports car which was unveiled at last autumn's Frankfurt IAA. 100 kg lighter than the F430 Coupé from which it is derived, the 430 Scuderia has 503 bhp on tap, a power-to-weight ratio of 2.5 kg/hp and benefits from an even fastest gear change system, now dubbed Superfast2.

The Gallardo LP560-4 will build on the success of the most recent evolution of the mid-size model's range, the Gallardo Superleggera, which was presented in Geneva a year ago and boasted 530 bhp (an increase of 10 bhp) coupled to a weight saving of 100 kg. The Gallardo Superleggera saw its limited order book fill out almost instantly.

The Gallardo LP560-4's new 5.2-litre engine is now larger and more robust and shares much of its technology with the power unit of parent company Audi's new RS6 model, also presented in Frankfurt last year. It will feature FSI direct-injection technology, revised valve timing as well as a flat plane crank. The engine will be cast as usual at Audi's plant in Hungary. While the main focus of the LP560-4 is on the power unit, the body will get an aerodynamic and styling upgrade as well as an improved cabin with new materials being used.

"The new Gallardo LP560-4 is a significantly enhanced version of what was already an extreme car," said Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini SpA. "With an even more sharply defined character, the new Gallardo LP560-4 is also innately elegant and sensuous, the expression of an uncompromised lifestyle. We look forward to launch our first new product for 2008 at the Geneva show."

The new model will be shown for the first time to the international Press, on the eve of the Geneva Auto Salon. The new cars presented during the preview Driving Ideas organised by the Volkswagen Group will be shown at the Geneva Auto Salon from 4 March. The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 will be shown on Automobili Lamborghini’s stand, number 1260 in Hall 1.