2017 Lamborghini Aventador S release date, specs, price: New sports car comes with 740 horsepower, enhanced aerodynamics

Lamborghini has introduced its newest sports car, the Aventador S, which retains the iconic design language of the Italian manufacturer but optimized aerodynamic performance.

"This is the next generation Aventador as well as the expression of new technological and performance milestones in super sports car development. The Aventador S is visionary design, cutting-edge technology and driving dynamics in pure harmony, and elevates the concept of super sports car to a new level," said Automobili Lamborghini chairman and CEO Stefano Domenicali.

The 2017 Aventador S retains the classic looks of the Aventador sports car especially with its profile but its front and rear has received a number of improvements to ensure maximum aerodynamic efficiency and at the same time highlighting the Aventador's masculinity and dynamism.

New design elements include a more aggressive nose, a longer front splitter, two air ducts on the side of the front bumper and improved cooling for the engine and radiators. At the rear, there is a black diffuser which can be requested in carbon fiber. There are vertical fins to increase airflow, reduce drag and generate downforce. Meanwhile, a new and lighter exhaust system with three single outlets deliver enhanced sound and resonance.

The new Aventador S is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine that delivers 740 horsepower, 40 more than its predecessor, as well as 508 pound-feet of torque. Increase in power is achieved due to the optimization of the Variable Valve Timing and Variable Intake System. The powertrain is mated to a lightweight Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) seven-speed transmission. The sports car is able to go from 0 to 62 miles per hour (mph) in just 2.9 seconds and attain a top speed of 217 mph.

Furthermore, the Aventador S comes with the stop-and-start system and cylinder deactivation for engine efficiency. It uses only six of the 12 cylinders when full engine capacity is not required. Other notable features include an enhanced suspension, carbon ceramic brakes and new Pirelli P Zero tires that are designed to respond to the rear-wheel steering.

Inside, the cockpit of the Aventador S is refined and functional. There is a new TFT digital dashboard that can be customized according to the driver's preferences. The control panel also allows the driver to select among the four driving modes: STRADA, SPORT, CORSA and EGO. It also comes standard with Apple CarPlay. In terms of the cabin's design, the choices are limitless, thanks to Lamborghini's Ad Personam customization program.

The new Lamborghini Aventador S will arrive in spring 2017 with a starting price of $421,350.