# Bugatti exploration of V16 manual transmission models

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/bugatti-exploration-of-v16-manual-transmission-models
> Updated: 2026-08-25T12:36:13.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 3.

Bugatti CEO Mate Rimac has expressed interest in developing a high-performance vehicle that pairs the atmospheric V16 engine from the Tourbillon with a genuine manual transmission. Speaking during Monterey Car Week, Rimac emphasized that any such gearbox would be a “real manual” rather than a software-simulated experience, telling Road & Track to “imagine a V16 with a manual, real manual.”

Rimac noted that while the current Tourbillon features an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic, a manual version would represent a significant shift toward traditional driving engagement. It remains unclear if such a project would be a series production or a bespoke commission through the brand’s Solitaire program.

In discussing the future of the industry, Rimac predicted a structural split in the automotive market. He suggested that while mass-market vehicles will transition to electric power, the luxury and supercar segments will likely retain internal combustion engines for a long time. Comparing the industry to the watch market, Rimac noted that while digital devices dominate volume, high-end mechanical Swiss watches remain the standard for collectors due to craftsmanship and emotional experience. 

This focus on exclusivity aligns with the current success of the Tourbillon, which features an 8.3-liter V16 hybrid powertrain producing approximately 1,800 horsepower. All 250 planned units of the Tourbillon have reportedly been sold, with prices ranging from $3.8 million to $4.5 million.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-25: Mate Rimac predicts luxury car market will retain combustion engines

Bugatti Rimac CEO Mate Rimac predicts a market split: mass-market cars will go electric, while luxury supercars will retain combustion engines to satisfy collectors seeking mechanical exclusivity.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bugatti-ceo-mate-rimac-predicts-luxury-car-market-will-retain-combustion-engines

### 2026-08-19: Bugatti CEO Mate Rimac considers V16 with manual transmission

Bugatti CEO Mate Rimac has signaled strong interest in creating a supercar that pairs the brand's new V16 engine with a traditional manual transmission.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bugatti-ceo-mate-rimac-explores-v16-engine-with-manual-transmission

### 2026-08-17: Bugatti CEO Mate Rimac suggests future V16 with manual transmission

Bugatti CEO Mate Rimac hinted at the possibility of a future V16 engine equipped with a “real manual” transmission, though no specific model or timeline was confirmed.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bugatti-ceo-mate-rimac-suggests-future-v16-with-manual-transmission

---
Cite as: Bugatti exploration of V16 manual transmission models. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/bugatti-exploration-of-v16-manual-transmission-models