We thought the Bugatti Chiron’s W16 would be the last mechanical beast of a bygone era. Yet, Bugatti has surprised everyone with an even more extravagant engine: a naturally aspirated 8.3-liter V16 paired with three electric motors.
Bugatti’s CEO, Mate Rimac, even gave a first glimpse of the Tourbillon’s V16 sound on track, and one thing is certain: it’s a true symphony that’s sure to spark reactions from purists. It sounds nothing like a V8, V10, or V12.
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Mate Rimac discovers the sound of Bugatti’s V16
Gone is the deep growl of the W16—this is an entirely different sound. In the videos posted by Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti and Rimac Automobili, you can hear the V16 roar before launching the car in a display of raw power. The revs climb at lightning speed, and the engine screams up to 9,000 rpm, reminiscent of the finest engines of the past. Unlike some of today’s sanitized powertrains, this V16 was designed to deliver an immersive and exhilarating sound experience. This is quite surprising, considering Rimac Automobili is closely tied to Bugatti. The Croatian manufacturer specializes in electric hypercars, raising a major question: would the engine of the new Bugatti Tourbillon be expressive enough? Well, it seems Bugatti has put all doubts to rest.
A tribute to automotive passion
This V16 wasn’t designed to be the most efficient. With its 1,000 hp from the combustion engine and an additional 800 hp from the electric motors, it’s undoubtedly a powerhouse. But Bugatti could have reached or at least approached these figures with a more compact and lightweight twin-turbo V8 hybrid. Instead, the brand chose to go against current trends by developing a completely unique engine. But Bugatti’s goal isn’t just about performance. The Tourbillon exists to reinforce the brand’s legacy—to prove that Bugatti has been, is, and will remain at the top of the food chain. The V16 is a true love letter to automotive passion at a time when nearly all manufacturers, even the most exclusive ones, are shifting towards downsizing, efficiency, and electrification.
Can the Tourbillon become the greatest hypercar?
While Bugatti opted for an oversized engine, the Tourbillon’s interior is just as impressive. Like the Chiron, there’s no plastic—only noble materials. The cockpit is a work of art, featuring exposed mechanical components in the instrument cluster. Much like Pagani did with the Zonda, Huayra, and Utopia, Bugatti proudly showcases its craftsmanship, inspired by Swiss watchmaking (hence its name—”tourbillon” being one of the most complex watch complications). Visually, every detail has been designed to make this hypercar a timeless machine. In the end, with its timeless appeal, ultra-exclusive and highly customizable design, and a massively powerful yet highly expressive powertrain, the Bugatti Tourbillon has everything it takes to be the greatest hypercar of the next decade!
This article explores the exceptional engineering and the sound of the Bugatti Tourbillon, its philosophy that defies modern standards, and the meticulous attention to detail that makes it a true collector’s piece. With only 250 units planned, this Bugatti is destined to become a legend—not just for its performance.
Images: © Bugatti
