Getting Behind the Wheel of Pagani Utopia: Review Highlights

May 06, 2024 04:20 AM EDT

PHOTO OF A CAR ON EXPRESSWAY — (Photo : PEXELS/Abdulwahab Alawadhi )

Pagani offers customers the opportunity to purchase a V12 hypercar with a manual shifter.The successor to the Huayra is equipped with a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine and has a weight of only 2,820 lbs.

Here Comes Pagani Utopia

A review by CarScoops claims that the Pagani Utopia's interior design includes an entirely visible manual shifter and a steering wheel made of an 88-pound slab of aluminum. This model is only the third to be released in Pagani's 25-year existence as an automobile manufacturer, and its intricate shift mechanism is one of its most remarkable features.

The $2.3 million Utopia is remarkable because of its exquisite detailing and lavish craftsmanship. Recent videos from Car Magazine and Top Gear show how enthralled the reviewers are with the Utopia's exacting attention to detail, which is displayed in every part of the vehicle, from switches and buttons to levers and trim pieces.

In addition to this, CarScoops asserts that the Pagani Utopia stands out as notably more captivating compared to numerous limited-production supercars and hypercars. This heightened allure is attributed to the intricate detailing present throughout the vehicle, including standout elements like the carbon composite wheels.

It's visually stunning door mirrors reminiscent of a mid-1970s endurance racing car adds to its appeal.

Utopia Packed with V12

Furthermore, the detailed reviews from Car and Top Gear extensively cover the driving experience of the Pagani Utopia, providing insights into how Pagani's inaugural turbocharged engine performs in terms of both sound and sensation.

This powertrain, sourced from Mercedes-AMG like the previous naturally aspirated engines in the Zonda and Huayra models, boasts the assistance of twin turbochargers to produce an impressive output of 852 hp (864 PS) and 811 lb-ft (1,100 Nm) of torque.

These specifications are more than sufficient for a vehicle weighing a remarkable 2,822 lbs (1,280 kg), positioning it in a weight class similar to that of a Toyota GR86. The V12's flexibility and impressive soundtrack, usually lacking in turbocharged supercars, have left both testers in awe.

They mention that despite not revving as high as a Ferrari V12 (6,700 rpm compared to 9,500 rpm for the new 12Cilindri), it remains consistently thrilling. While faster cars exist, these videos serve as a reminder that true greatness in a supercar or hypercar goes beyond pure speed.

Many of these vehicles are often driven well below their maximum capabilities, highlighting the Utopia as one of the finest choices in this elite category.

Pagani Utopia's Angle

Top Gear finds it challenging to get a clear view of the Utopia from directly above. They highlight the teardrop shape of the cabin and the portholes on its upper surfaces. Upon closer inspection, the intricate detailing proves to be incredibly captivating.

From the meticulously milled brake calipers to the aluminum rear lights that stand out in the darkness, from the leather latch buckles to the ornate door mirrors resembling chandeliers, every detail exudes a unique and flawless perfection.

There is no hybrid option. While it was a possibility, Pagani had the option to utilize AMG's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with full hybrid capabilities and over 1,000bhp for the Utopia. This technology stems from Pagani's longstanding relationship with Mercedes-AMG that dates back over 25 years.

However, Horacio opted against this choice due to concerns about weight; extensive lap time simulations indicated that this configuration would result in the Utopia being four-to-five seconds slower around the Nordschleife compared to the current twin-turbo V12 engine it houses.