The Lamborghini Cabrera has been spotted without cladding for the first time, snapped up-close by CarAdvice photographers.

The spy shots of the Lamborghini Cabrera prototype reveal a ground-hugging design that represents an evolution of the 10-year-old Gallardo the car is replacing, and one which retains Lamborghini’s trademark gaping front air intakes and wedge-shaped profile.

While details such as the car’s arrow-like LED headlights have previously been seen, the spy shots give the first glimpse of the Cabrera’s rear lights. The test car appears to suggest the Cabrera will adopt a single red strip spanning the width of the rear, although it is possible this is just part of the car’s remaining disguise. Regardless, it is obvious the LED tail-lights have a slim, horizontal shape, mimicking the larger Aventador.

The images also expose a wide rear diffuser and inset number plate bay, as well as the car’s ventilated engine cover.

Parked next to an Audi S6, the mid-engined Cabrera’s diminuitive size is made evident. Despite packing a 5.2-litre V10, today’s Gallardo measures 4.3m long, similar to a Toyota Corolla. It appears the Cabrera will adopt similar dimensions.

The Cabrera is being developed alongside the next-generation Audi R8, and will use an uprated version of the Gallardo’s engine, expected to push out around 450kW. The car is set to debut early next year.