In March of 2016, Bugatti introduced the world to its then-all-new Chiron hypercar. Successor to the already mind-blowing Veyron, the Chiron was an instant hit with Bugatti’s customer base, receiving hundreds of initial orders. Alongside the regular Chiron, a handful of clients also began expressing interest in a slightly more civilized version of the hypercar that featured less extreme performance in favor of better touring capabilities. In response to these requests, Bugatti would create the Chiron Profilée. And while Bugatti planned on producing 500 units, the company would opt to pull the plug on the project after completing just a single prototype — a lone example that’s now headed to auction.
Representing the very last brand-new quad-turbo W-16-powered model ever sold by Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S., this Chiron Profilée stands as the first and only “pre-series” unit ever made. Distinguishing the Chiron Profilée from other models in the hypercar family is a uniquely-designed set of bodywork that’s been engineered to bolster downforce while also improving thermodynamic airflow management. More responsive handling has also been unlocked through the addition of an all-new steering system and suspension setup.
Underneath the surface, the limited edition Bugatti’s powertrain has been modified, with the two-stage quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W-16 engine seeing its rev ceiling increased by 200rpm all the way up to 6,900. The hypercar’s seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox has also been given shorter ratios that make the Profilée the fastest-accelerating Chiron of all time. As a result, the car now possesses the ability to reach 60mph from a complete standstill in just 2.3 seconds, while also clocking a 0-125mph time of 5.5 seconds and being able to reach 186.4mph in just 12.4 seconds. Even with its higher gear ratios, the Chiron Profilée can still achieve a top speed of 236mph — and could be even faster had the car’s engine not been electronically restricted to that number.
Though no estimated valuation has been given, the 2022 Bugatti Chiron Profilée is slated to cross the auction block at RM Sotheby’s upcoming Paris Sale starting on February 1, 2023, where we anticipate the one-of-one car to command at least a seven-figure sum. And, while still technically brand new, this lone Profilée-spec Chiron specimen has racked up 396km (~ 246 miles) — all of which consist of factory test mileage.
