The 16C Galibier was unveiled in 2009 as a concept. It had a detuned version of the Veyron’s engine, with 900bhp and increased torque. After that, it’s made an appearance at 2010 Geneva Motor Show, featuring just a new paintjob.
A while ago we reported that Bugatti has confirmed the production of a four-door Veyron. At that time Wolfgang Dürheimer (Bugatti and Bentley boss) has confirmed the company is “committed to a four-door Bugatti”, and promised to deliver even more muscle from the W16 unit. Shortly after this official confirmation, Bugatti announced that Galibier is on hold because is just not good enough.
Anyway, while the project seems to be on course, the new head of Bugatti Automobiles, Wolfgang Duerheimer, told Autocar Magazine that the Galibier’s design has been “significantly altered”.
“I will suggest we continue development, but there will be some remarkable changes from the original concept,” Durheimer told the British publication.
“The design will be different, especially from the B-pillar back, the ingress and regress to the rear seats will be improved, as will the legroom and ergonomics, the car will be a little longer, and the power of the engine will be at least four figures,” so expect the performance to get a significant boost.
The new head of Bugatti Automobiles pointed out that the company made the changes after receiving input from Bugatti’s customers.
“Half of Veyron owners have been in the car already,” he said. “You will still recognize the design from the concept, but now this is a design I can be 100% behind.”
In terms of pricing, the luxurious sports saloon is estimated to come with a price tag of around £1.5m when it arrives in the market in 2013 or 2014.
Source: Autocar
