Bugatti Chiron makes its first move at FOS

Unveiled in Geneva just four months ago, the circa £2m Chiron makes even its Veyron predecessor look underpowered. The quad turbocharged 8.0-litre W16 engine has half as much power again as the Veyron…. along with almost 1200 lb ft of torque. If there is one car that sums up this year’s FoS theme of “the endless pursuit of power” the Chiron is it.

FoS fans will be the first in the country to see the Chiron in action when it’s unleashed on the Goodwood hill every day (24-26 June). In “handling” mode, the car has a top speed of “only” 236mph while, like the Veyron before it, a special key is needed to unlock “top speed” mode for the full 261mph. But probably not needed on the Goodwood hill… With 0-124mph acceleration in less than 6.5sec, however, the risk is that blink and you’ll miss it.

Which would be a great shame because, like the Veyron, the latest Bugatti is an automotive masterpiece even when standing still. The body – all carbon-fibre this time – brings an even more purposeful look to the familiar Veyron architecture, for a result as dramatic as it is elegant. A lot of the design highlights are inspired by classic Bugattis, while inside the cabin the materials, finish and craftsmanship back up Bugatti’s claim that this is the “most luxurious and most exclusive super-sports car ever made”.

The Veyron has long been a familiar sight at Goodwood, and indeed in the UK: of the 450 created 63 were sold to British owners. It is estimated that around 40 Veyrons are currently on UK roads. The Chiron, of which 500 are to be made, promises to be just as successful here, with first deliveries from the sole UK dealership, Jack Barclay Bugatti in Berkeley Square, starting in the autumn.

Good to know that the world’s new fastest-car-in-waiting is starting its career up a Sussex hillclimb!