Bugatti Divo 2021
Overview
A more exotic-looking and exclusive version of the Bugatti Chiron hypercar, the Divo is a study in aerodynamics. Its name pays homage to French racing driver Albert Divo, who won the prestigious Targa Florio endurance race twice in the 1920s behind the wheel of a Bugatti. True to form, the French automaker has put a cap on production: It will build only 40 examples of the Divo, all of which have been spoken for. Compared with the Chiron, the Divo's key enhancements include an upgraded suspension, additional weight savings, and all kinds of aerodynamic wizardry. While both Bugatti models look outrageous, it's not difficult to tell them apart: If it has a dorsal fin, a carved-up hood, and cheese-grater taillights under an enormous wing, you're looking at the Divo.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
In the middle of this all-wheel-drive hypercar sits an 8.0-liter W-16 engine with four (!) turbochargers that help the Divo develop a mere 1500 horsepower. (The Koenigsegg Jesko and Lotus Evija have it beat, with power peaks of 1600 and 1972 horses, respectively.) Backed by a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, this beast of a engine comes courtesy of the Chiron. Bugatti claims the Divo will accelerate to 62 mph in just 2.4 seconds and that it can hang on through a corner with an astonishing 1.6 g's of grip. Although we doubt we'll have the privilege to pilot a Divo, we have driven the Chiron and can only assume its diabolical alter ego—which weighs a claimed 77 pounds less and takes greater pains to manage the airflow around it—outshines it on the track.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
It's unlikely we'll ever see one of these things in the wild, let alone test it on our 200-mile fuel-economy loop. But if you want a fuel-efficient vehicle, you'd do better to look elsewhere than Bugatti. For reference, the Chiron—which shares its powertrain with the Divo—earns EPA estimated ratings of 9 mpg in the city, 14 mpg on the highway, and 11 mpg combined.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
It's hard to outdo the Divo's fanciful exterior, but its wow-inducing interior comes close. The cabin's symmetrical layout incorporates an asymmetrical color scheme, where the driver's side is highlighted in Divo Racing Blue and the passenger's side, in black. The seats offer tremendous lateral support—or so we're told—and the steering wheel comes partially wrapped in faux suede with two large paddle shifters on either side. In an effort to save weight, Bugatti kept sound-insulation materials and storage compartments to a minimum.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Instead of high-tech driver-assistance features and a contemporary infotainment system with LED screens, Bugatti prioritizes weight savings and technologically advanced aero bits. The car does come with a sound system from Accuton, but owners can choose to delete it to marginally improve the Divo's power-to-weight ratio.
KEY FACTS
- DIVO is a reminiscence of the brand’s coachbuilding tradition
- BUGATTI DIVO to be made in a limited series of only 40 vehicles
- DIVO has 90 kg (198 lbs) more downforce than the CHIRON
- DIVO has a higher lateral acceleration of 1.6 g (vs 1.5 g for CHIRON)
- Increased wheel camber with maximum speed now limited to 380 km/h (236 mph)
- DIVO is 8 seconds faster lap time on the Nardò handling circuit
TECHNICAL SPECS
- Powertrain: 8 Ltr.W16 Engine with 4 turbochargers with BUGATTI 2-stage turbocharging and intercooling
- Power Output: 1,103 kw / 1,500 hp at 6,700 rpm Max.
- Torque: 1,600 nm (2,000 to 6,000 rpm)
- Transmission: 7-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox
- Acceleration: 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) 2.4 sec
- Weight: reduced by 35kg vs. CHIRON
