Electric Cars

A remarkable 2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Pur Sang, one of merely five ever crafted, recently commanded a price exceeding $2.3 million at auction. This automotive masterpiece stands out with its unadorned carbon fiber and gleaming aluminum exterior, a design choice that not only enhances its visual appeal but also significantly reduces its curb weight. Equipped with a formidable W16 quad-turbo engine generating 987 horsepower, the Veyron Pur Sang exemplifies peak engineering and performance. Its sale underscores the enduring allure and substantial market value of these exceptionally rare vehicles, reflecting their status as icons of the hypercar world.

The value of this particular Veyron Pur Sang, approximately €1,973,750, highlights the sustained demand for bespoke and limited-edition luxury automobiles. The vehicle’s aesthetic purity, achieved by eschewing traditional paintwork, allows the inherent beauty and craftsmanship of its materials to be fully appreciated. Furthermore, this design approach contributes to a notable weight reduction of nearly 200 pounds, demonstrating Bugatti's commitment to both form and function. This sale reaffirms the Veyron's position as a highly coveted collector's item, merging historical significance with unparalleled performance.

The Unique Craftsmanship of the Veyron Pur Sang

This 2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Pur Sang represents a pinnacle of automotive artistry, being the inaugural model in an exclusive series of just five units globally. Its defining characteristic is a striking mirror-like exterior, achieved through the meticulous application of exposed carbon fiber and polished aluminum. This innovative design not only bestows a visually captivating appearance but also contributes to a substantial reduction in the vehicle's overall mass. The absence of conventional paintwork allows the raw, technical elegance of the Veyron's construction to be fully appreciated, setting it apart as a true 'thoroughbred'—the literal translation of 'Pur Sang' from French.

The meticulous construction of the Pur Sang variant extends beyond its aesthetic appeal. By foregoing layers of paint, Bugatti managed to shed approximately 200 pounds from the Veyron's curb weight, a feat that, while not strictly necessary for the gargantuan 8.0-liter quad-turbo W16 engine producing 987 horsepower, nonetheless enhances its dynamic capabilities. This engineering marvel enables the car to achieve a breathtaking top speed of 407 km/h (253 mph). The vehicle's interior complements its unique exterior, featuring a sophisticated blend of beige and grey leather. Rather than relying on modern digital displays, the cabin retains an elegant simplicity with classic analog dials, including a prominently placed tachometer flanked by a speedometer calibrated to 420 km/h, and a central console adorned with an analog clock and tactile controls, offering a refreshing departure from contemporary digital interfaces.

Market Value and Historical Context of a Coveted Hypercar

The recent auction of this 2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Pur Sang for an impressive sum exceeding $2.3 million underscores the enduring high value of these limited-production hypercars. This particular model, having only had three private owners since its inception, has accumulated a modest 7,629 kilometers (4,740 miles) on its odometer. Its pristine condition is maintained through regular servicing, including a recent visit to Hamburg for maintenance and the replacement of its specialized tires, an expense alone that can surpass $40,000, reflecting the high cost of ownership for such an exclusive vehicle.

Despite its significant sale price, the Veyron Pur Sang is not the most expensive Bugatti ever sold. That distinction belongs to the Bugatti La Voiture Noire, a singular model that pays homage to the legendary Type 57 SC Atlantic. The La Voiture Noire was initially acquired for approximately $13.4 million, and its recent re-sale, though confidential in price, suggests it likely remains an eight-figure asset. This comparison highlights the varied tiers of exclusivity and value within the Bugatti marque, with the Pur Sang representing a rare and celebrated chapter in the Veyron's legacy, while other models push the boundaries of bespoke luxury and astronomical pricing in the automotive world.

With the forthcoming release of the entirely new 2026 Mazda CX-5, set to hit the U.S. market early next year, the current 2025 model remains a highly desirable option within the compact crossover segment. Despite its longer presence in the market, the 2025 CX-5 continues to impress with its sophisticated feel, robust build quality, and engaging driving dynamics. Many find its aesthetic appeal even surpasses that of its successor, making it a strong contender for those considering a lease or purchase in the coming weeks.

For those interested in leasing the 2025 Mazda CX-5 this October, the Select trim, positioned just above the base model, is available for $319 per month. This 36-month lease agreement requires a down payment of $3,999 and permits 10,000 miles annually, with additional mileage incurring a charge of $0.15 per mile. It's important to note that this offer, valid until November 3, 2025, excludes taxes, title, licensing, and dealer-specific options. While the Toyota RAV4 may offer a lower monthly lease cost, the CX-5's superior specifications often make it the more attractive choice. Additionally, Mazda offers various incentives for other trims, including $720 in lease cash for Premium Plus, Carbon Turbo, Turbo Premium, and Turbo Signature models. Current Mazda owners can also benefit from a $750 discount through the Mazda Loyalty Reward Program. These offers can vary by region, so prospective lessees are encouraged to check local dealerships for precise details.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5's powertrain features a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine in the first five trims, including the Select, delivering 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, coupled with standard all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking more power, turbocharged models, starting at $32,630, offer 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. All CX-5 models come equipped with a 10.25-inch color display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, radar cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Select trim further enhances comfort with dual-zone climate control, rear air conditioning vents, leatherette upholstery, and heated front seats. Higher-tier models elevate the luxury experience with amenities such as heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, genuine leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and wireless phone charging.

While the prospect of an all-new Mazda CX-5 is exciting, the current model still stands out as an exceptional vehicle. Its enduring appeal, refined driving experience, and reliable powertrain make it a smart choice for leasing or purchasing. The 2025 CX-5 offers a premium feel that often surpasses its rivals, especially when considering the enhanced features of trims like the Select, which, for a marginal increase in monthly cost over competitors, provides significant upgrades in comfort and technology. Ultimately, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 represents a compelling blend of value, performance, and sophistication.