As the automotive industry shifts towards an electrified future, Bugatti delivers a poignant farewell to the legendary W16 combustion engine with the Chiron L’Ultime. This exclusive edition marks the end of an era, celebrating the remarkable engineering and performance that defined the Chiron line.
Celebrating a Legend: The W16 Engine
At the heart of the L’Ultime is the iconic quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W16 engine, a masterpiece of engineering that has powered the Chiron to unprecedented levels of performance. With 1,577 horsepower and 1,180 lb-ft of torque, this formidable engine propels the L’Ultime to a top speed of 261 mph, making it one of the fastest production cars in the world.
The L’Ultime pays homage to the W16 engine’s legacy with a series of bespoke design touches and commemorative elements. The exterior features a unique paint scheme, intricate detailing, and special “L’Ultime” badging. The interior is equally luxurious, with handcrafted materials, personalized embroidery, and a plaque denoting the car’s limited production number.
A Design for the Ages
The L’Ultime’s design is a symphony of aerodynamic efficiency and aesthetic elegance. Its sculpted lines, aggressive stance, and signature Bugatti horseshoe grille exude a sense of power and exclusivity. The body is crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, enhancing performance and agility.
The interior is a testament to Bugatti’s commitment to craftsmanship. Exquisite leather upholstery, bespoke stitching, and meticulously crafted components create an environment of unparalleled luxury. Each L’Ultime is a unique work of art, tailored to the individual owner’s preferences.
Performance Beyond Compare
The L’Ultime’s performance capabilities are simply breathtaking. Its lightning-fast acceleration, pinpoint handling, and advanced braking system combine to deliver an unforgettable driving experience. The L’Ultime is not just a car; it’s a visceral symphony of power, precision, and passion.
A Collector’s Dream
With only a limited number of L’Ultime editions being produced, this Bugatti is destined to become a highly sought-after collector’s item. Its rarity, exclusivity, and connection to the W16 engine’s legacy make it a symbol of automotive history.
Here’s a closer look at the 18 safest and most fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles for 2024, along with their respective IIHS safety ratings, EPA-estimated fuel economy, and estimated annual fuel costs (based on an average of 15,000 miles driven per year and a national average gas price of $3.44 per gallon):
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Top Safety Pick; 36 mpg; $1,450 annual fuel cost
- Honda Accord Hybrid: Top Safety Pick+; 48 mpg; $1,100 annual fuel cost
- Toyota Corolla Hybrid: Top Safety Pick; 50 mpg; $1,050 annual fuel cost
- Toyota Sienna: Top Safety Pick; 36 mpg; $1,450 annual fuel cost
- Toyota Prius: Top Safety Pick; 57 mpg; $900 annual fuel cost
- Lexus UX 250h: Top Safety Pick; 39 mpg; $1,300 annual fuel cost
- Lexus UX 250h: Top Safety Pick; 42 mpg; $1,250 annual fuel cost
- Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: Top Safety Pick: 47 mpg; $1,100 annual fuel cost
- Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: Top Safety Pick; 54 mpg; $950 annual fuel cost
- Toyota Camry Hybrid: Top Safety Pick; 52 mpg; $1,000 annual fuel cost
- Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: Top Safety Pick+; 38 mpg; $1,350 annual fuel cost
- Toyota Venza: Top Safety Pick; 39 mpg; $1,300 annual fuel cost
- Lexus NX 350h: Top Safety Pick; 39 mpg; $1,650 annual fuel cost (premium fuel)
- Honda CR-V Hybrid: Top Safety Pick; 40 mpg; $1,300 annual fuel cost
- Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid: Top Safety Pick; 42 mpg; $1,250 annual fuel cost
- Kia Sorento Hybrid: Top Safety Pick; 37 mpg; $1,400 annual fuel cost
- Toyota Crown: Top Safety Pick; 41 mpg; $1,250 annual fuel cost
- Kia Sportage Hybrid: Top Safety Pick+; 43 mpg; $1,200 annual fuel cost
A Glimpse into the Future
While the L’Ultime marks the end of the W16 engine’s reign, it also signals a new chapter for Bugatti. The company is committed to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and design, embracing innovative technologies to create the next generation of high-performance vehicles.
Conclusion
The Bugatti Chiron L’Ultime is a fitting tribute to the W16 engine and the Chiron line’s incredible achievements. It’s a testament to human ingenuity, a masterpiece of engineering, and a symbol of the passion that drives automotive excellence. As Bugatti looks to the future, the L’Ultime stands as a reminder of the brand’s unwavering commitment to pushing the limits of what’s possible.