Bugatti’s Tourbillon: A Closer Look at Its Powerful V16 Engine

Bugatti’s hybrid hypercar, the Tourbillon, continues to captivate enthusiasts. Five months after its unveiling, we’ve caught our first glimpse of it in action, and the sound of its massive V16 engine is nothing short of extraordinary.

While customer deliveries won’t commence until 2026, Bugatti is actively testing and developing the Tourbillon. Recent footage captured at Rimac’s Croatian facility offers a tantalizing glimpse of the car on the move. Although the driver refrained from pushing the prototype to its limits, the V16’s powerful roar is undeniable.

Cosworth-engineered, this naturally aspirated 8.3-liter V16 is a masterpiece. Its ability to rev up to a staggering 9,000 rpm, far surpassing the 7,100 rpm limit of the Chiron Super Sport’s quad-turbo W16, is truly remarkable. The higher rev range, coupled with the unique configuration and absence of forced induction, results in a distinctive sound profile.

At lower revs, the V16 shares similarities with the iconic W16, producing a deep, base-heavy note. However, as the engine climbs the rev range, it transitions into a more V8-like character. The driver’s conservative approach and short-shifting prevented the Tourbillon from reaching its redline, but Bugatti’s own videos hint at an absolutely exhilarating sound at 9,000 rpm.

The V16 engine generates 986 horsepower, which is complemented by three electric motors, yielding a combined output of up to 1,775 horsepower. This potent powertrain enables the Tourbillon to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 2 seconds, 0 to 124 mph in under 5 seconds, and 0 to 186 mph in less than 10 seconds. It’s also expected to reach 248 mph in under 25 seconds.

Bugatti aims to use the Tourbillon to break the 311 mph barrier, pushing the boundaries of automotive performance once again.