Mate Rimac Shares Why the Tourbillon Uses a Naturally Aspirated Engine
While the Chiron built upon the foundation of the Veyron, the new Bugatti Tourbillon marks a bold new chapter. Ditching the iconic quad-turbocharged W-16, Bugatti’s latest flagship features an all-new 8.3-liter naturally aspirated V-16 developed with Cosworth. Despite its size, the engine weighs just 556 pounds—about 42% lighter than the Chiron’s powerplant.
This impressive weight reduction is partly due to the removal of turbochargers. Mate Rimac, speaking to Top Gear, questioned the logic of turbocharging a hybrid supercar, suggesting that electric assistance already fills the performance gap. In the Tourbillon, a 24.8-kWh battery enables up to 43 miles (70 km) of electric-only driving without activating the V-16.
“I’ve driven them all,” Rimac said. “Why would you pair a turbo engine with a hybrid? A turbo is already a compromise.”
Eliminating the turbos did mean losing around 600 horsepower, but this is more than offset by three electric motors that contribute 800 hp. Combined with the V-16’s 1,000 hp output, the Tourbillon surpasses its predecessors in both power and weight. Additional weight savings come from a new suspension design that’s 45% lighter, aided by 3D printing. The total curb weight is under 4,398 pounds (1,995 kg), including fluids and nearly a full tank.
While turbocharged hybrid supercars dominate the segment, there are exceptions like the naturally aspirated V-12 Lamborghini Revuelto and the LaFerrari. However, Ferrari’s new F80 opts for a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6, and Porsche’s Mission X concept hints at a fully electric successor to the 918 Spyder.
Rimac hasn’t ruled out future variations of the Tourbillon, including a pure ICE version, a lighter hybrid with a single electric motor, or even a roadster. Only 250 coupes are planned, but Bugatti clearly has a broader vision.
Deliveries of the production model will begin next year, following the completion of 35 prototypes. Meanwhile, Bugatti is finalizing deliveries of the last W-16-powered Bolide and Mistral models, officially closing that legendary era.
