Twenty years after Bugatti shocked the world with the 736 kW Veyron and later the 1 103 kW Chiron, the automaker’s Tourbillon ushers in a new era of performance and craftsmanship.
The Tourbillon (“whirlwind” in English) is named after a complex and beautiful watchmaking invention and reflects Bugatti’s French heritage and mechanical timelessness, according to the brand.
One engine, three motors
This new chapter in the Bugatti’s history introduces an 8,35-litre naturally aspirated V16 engine, developed with Cosworth, producing 735 kW. Instead of using turbochargers as before, it is paired with a hybrid system featuring three electric motors with a combined 588 kW. This brings the Tourbillon’s combined power output to 1 324 kW.
The car’s 25 kWh battery provides an all-electric range of around 60 km when fully charged from a domestic plug or fast charger. This means the Turbillon is a plug-in hybrid.
Performance
The Tourbillon is designed to accelerate from 0–100 km/h in 2 seconds, 0–200 km/h in under 5 seconds, 0–300 km/h in under 10 seconds and 0–400 km/h in less than 25 seconds. Bugatti claims a 445 km/h top speed, versus the Chiron’s 420 km/h maximum.
Design and aerodynamics
The Tourbillon adheres to Bugatti’s philosophy of “shaped by speed.” A spokesperson for the company says every surface, inlet, and ridge of the Tourbillon is meticulously crafted for aerodynamic and thermodynamic efficiency.
Inspired by Bugatti icons like the Type 57SC Atlantic and the Type 35, the Tourbillon boasts an ultra sleek design with a lowered roofline and traditional dual-tone paintwork.
Frank Heyl, Bugatti’s director of design, noted, “Every design decision is geared towards creating a sense of speed even at a standstill.” The car’s design integrates the iconic horseshoe grille, the Bugatti Line, and a sophisticated rear diffuser for optimal aerodynamic balance.
Interior
Bugatti says the Tourbillon’s interior is a testament to timeless craftsmanship, and they’re not lying. Inspired by horology (the art of making timepieces), it features an analogue instrument cluster crafted from titanium and gemstones.
The centre console blends crystal glass and aluminium, showcasing the intricate workings of the controls. Despite its advanced features, the interior maintains a focus on comfort and practicality, with electrically adjustable pedal boxes and an innovative audio system.
Engineering
Bugatti’s engineers have crafted a new chassis and body structure using next-generation T800 carbon composite, resulting in a lighter and stiffer frame. The Tourbillon also features advanced suspension and braking systems, ensuring unparalleled performance and handling, according to Bugatti.
The use of 3D-printed components and bespoke Michelin tires further enhances the vehicle’s capabilities. The car weighs 1 995 kg.
The price
As Bugatti enters the testing phase for the Tourbillon, anticipation is building for its market debut. With a limited production run of just 250 units and a starting price of €3,8 million (R73 million), the Tourbillon is poised to become a coveted collector’s item. Bugatti will build the car in Molsheim in France and deliveries are expected to begin in 2026.
What else can you get for R73 million?
Prefer fixed over moveable assets? A quick glance at the local property market shows there are plenty of agreeable homes on offer for amounts around the Turbillon’s entry price.
Cape Town
This three-level, three-bedroom home in Bantry Bay in Cape Town is offered via Svelte Property Portfolio for R76 million. It has six bathrooms and parking for six cars.
If you don’t care for views over the Atlantic, consider this house tucked away among the trees in Higgovale, Cape Town. Listed by DG Properties for R75 million, it has four bedrooms, 5½ bathrooms and parking for five cars.
New York
Looking further afield: On Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, New York, this two-bedroom, three-bathroom apartment in the Olympic Tower is available for R75 million.
At R59 000 per month, the levy is a bit stiff and there’s no mention of a parking bay. It’s listed by Douglas Elliman on Zillow.com.
