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Late Thursday night in Molsheim, France, Bugatti introduced its latest hypercar, marking the next phase in its storied legacy that includes the Veyron and Chiron. The new model, named the Tourbillon, draws inspiration from luxury watchmaking, as clarified by Bugatti CEO Mate Rimac during the car’s debut. With this launch, eight years after the Chiron’s production commenced, the Tourbillon signifies a significant shift for the brand, being its first hybrid flagship model.
Those familiar with previous Bugatti models will find the Tourbillon’s exterior design familiar yet refined. It resembles the Chiron but features a sleeker silhouette, highlighted by a pointed, arrow-like nose and a more curvaceous overall shape. The iconic Bugatti “arc,” which traditionally runs along the lower door edge and around the side window, has been softened, resulting in a less circular form. The rear lightbar takes cues from some McLaren designs, while the exposed engine cover is delicately connected by a slender bridge stretching from the rear deck to the roof. Notably, the Tourbillon’s body is 33 millimeters shorter than that of the Chiron.
Bugatti Design Director Frank Heyl explained that the pointed nose was strategically designed based on insights gained from their previous record-setting cars. He noted that reducing the frontal area of a vehicle significantly impacts its speed more than any other factor. However, the classic Bugatti horseshoe grille has been extended to its widest yet, further emphasized by the steep angle at the front.
Inside, the Tourbillon prioritizes mechanical and analog elements, with a minimalistic dashboard dominated by one tiny screen—absent from the initial renders presented during the reveal. The standout feature of the interior is the steering wheel, which encircles the instrument cluster, allowing for the intricate, watch-inspired gauges to be visible as the wheel moves.
The Tourbillon boasts an impressive 8.3-liter naturally aspirated V16 engine, capable of reaching 9,000 rpm and producing 1,000 horsepower. In conjunction with three electric motors, the hybrid powertrain achieves a total output of 1,800 hp. Unlike the W16 engines found in previous models, the V16 features a more traditional design, with eight cylinders on each side instead of the W-style configuration used previously. This setup results in the new V16 being approximately 10 inches longer than its predecessor.
While the former W16 featured four turbochargers, the new engine is designed to breathe freely. Rimac indicated that drivers will have comprehensive control over the powertrain, allowing choices between using just the internal combustion engine, solely battery power, or harnessing the full power of the hybrid system. In full power mode, the Tourbillon can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in a staggering two seconds and reach a top speed of 276 mph.
Despite the lengthened engine, the Tourbillon’s wheelbase extends only 2.9 millimeters beyond that of the Chiron, and its overall weight is reportedly less. Although specific weight figures have not been disclosed, Rimac expressed confidence that this model marks a historic moment where a hybrid vehicle powered by a pure internal combustion engine weighs less than its gasoline-only forerunner. Bugatti plans to produce 250 units of the Tourbillon, with deliveries starting in 2026..
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