In 2004, Bugatti revolutionised the automotive world with the Veyron, a hyper sports car boasting 1,001 horsepower. This remarkable achievement was surpassed in 2016 with the Chiron, the world’s first 1,500 horsepower car. Central to these vehicles was the 8.0-liter quad-turbo W16 engine, a pinnacle of automotive engineering. Now, 20 years after pioneering the hyper sports car, Bugatti redefines the concept with an entirely new powertrain and platform. Welcome the Bugatti Tourbillon.
NAME AND PHILOSOPHY
Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti, shared: “The development of the Bugatti Tourbillon was guided at every step by the 115 years of Bugatti history and the words of Ettore Bugatti himself. His mantras ‘if comparable it is no longer Bugatti’ and ‘nothing is too beautiful’ were a guiding path for me personally, as well as the design and engineering teams looking to create the next exciting era in the Bugatti hyper sports car story.”
Drawing inspiration from the Type 57SC Atlantic, the Type 35, and the Type 41 Royale, Bugatti aimed to create a vehicle that epitomises beauty, performance, and luxury. The Tourbillon, named after the Swiss watchmaking invention of 1801, reflects Bugatti’s French heritage and embodies a mechanical timelessness designed for eternity.
As the first Bugatti in over 20 years not powered by the W16 engine, the Tourbillon signifies a new era. The name itself is a nod to the intricacies and beauty of its design, akin to the revered tourbillon mechanism in fine watchmaking.
DESIGN & AERODYNAMICS
Like every modern Bugatti, the Tourbillon is ‘shaped by speed’. Its ability to exceed 400 km/h requires every surface and detail to be meticulously designed for aerodynamics and thermodynamics. The car features four key Bugatti design elements: the horseshoe grille, the Bugatti Line, the central ridge, and the dual colour split.
Frank Heyl, Bugatti Director of Design, explained: “The creations of Ettore and Jean Bugatti are ingenious in their aerodynamics, innovation, and enduring beauty. We draw from the Bugatti Type 35, where the shape of the car was guided by the horseshoe grille, tapering back into a streamlined fuselage shape. The Type 57SC Atlantic inspired our lowered stance and proportions, emphasising the car’s width and the tension in its design.”
Every design decision in the Tourbillon is focused on creating a sense of speed, even at a standstill. The car’s rear wing remains submerged during top-speed runs, utilising new patented technologies for aerodynamic balance. The new diffuser concept, integrated within the car’s structure, ensures perfect balance and optimal airflow.
The iconic horseshoe grille is the focal point from which all lines of the car originate, shaping its aerodynamic profile. Advanced, electrically actuated dihedral doors provide ease of entry and a dramatic sense of arrival.
INTERIOR
The interior of the Tourbillon is a masterpiece of timeless design, drawing inspiration from the world of horology. Eschewing digital screens for a more enduring analogue experience, the centrepiece is an instrument cluster crafted by Swiss watchmakers. Constructed from titanium and gemstones, this cluster remains a focal point of the driving experience, offering an unobstructed view independent of the steering angle.
The centre console blends crystal glass and aluminium, revealing the intricate workings of the switches and the engine start lever. A hidden high-definition digital screen displays vehicle data and offers mobile connectivity, deploying seamlessly from the console.
Every interior detail is designed for ultimate performance without compromising on comfort. The seats are fixed to the floor for a low centre of gravity, while the pedal box is electrically adjustable. An advanced audio system, using exciters on the door panels, replaces traditional speakers for a lighter, more efficient setup.
Christophe Piochon, President of Bugatti, noted: “We focused on the authenticity of materials and perfection in every part. With the Tourbillon, we are taking this impeccable authenticity and craftsmanship to the next level. Our new platform expresses the pursuit of engineering excellence in every detail, creating a masterpiece of packaging and engineering.”
POWERTRAIN AND PERFORMANCE
The Tourbillon is powered by an all-new 8.3-liter naturally aspirated V16 engine, developed with Cosworth, paired with a front e-Axle with two electric motors and one electric motor at the rear. This powertrain produces a total of 1,800 horsepower, combining 1,000 hp from the combustion engine and 800 hp from the electric motors.
The electric motors are powered by a 25 kWh oil-cooled 800V battery, offering a range of over 60 km on electric power alone. Despite its powerful hybrid powertrain, the Tourbillon weighs less than the Chiron, a testament to its advanced engineering and lightweight construction.
Emilio Scervo, Bugatti CTO, stated: “The Tourbillon had to be incomparable in every respect. Our philosophy has been to elevate every aspect of Chiron, creating a timeless masterpiece. The powertrain combines the best of combustion technology and electrification, delivering a memorable driving experience.”
ENGINEERING
The Tourbillon features an entirely new chassis and body structure made from next-generation T800 carbon composite. Innovations like integrating the battery as a structural part of the monocoque and a new crash composite rear diffuser ensure a lightweight yet rigid structure. The multi-link suspension, 3D-printed aluminium components, and advanced carboceramic brakes enhance performance and handling.
The ultra-compact front e-axle fits within the same space as the Chiron, while offering additional storage and luggage capacity. The bespoke Michelin Pilot Cup Sport 2 tires ensure optimal grip and performance.
COMING IN 2026
Mate Rimac, Bugatti CEO, concluded: “The Tourbillon embodies the spirit of Ettore Bugatti, refusing to compromise and always seeking the best solution. It is what makes a Bugatti incomparable and timeless. The Tourbillon, with its new V16 engine, advanced hybrid powertrain, and exquisite craftsmanship, is set to become an icon Pour l’éternité.”
Prototypes of the Bugatti Tourbillon are already undergoing testing, with customer deliveries expected in 2026. Limited to 250 units, the Tourbillon starts at 3.8 million EUR, with hand-assembly taking place at the Bugatti Atelier in Molsheim following the final W16-powered models, Bolide and W16 Mistral.
