What Car Does the Bugatti CEO Drive? The Surprising Choice of Mate Rimac

Inside the Garage of Mate Rimac: Bugatti's CEO and His Unconventional Daily Driver

When most people think of the CEO of Bugatti, they imagine someone cruising in a multi-million-dollar hypercar built by their own company. But Mate Rimac, the innovative CEO of Bugatti-Rimac, breaks this expectation in style, choosing to drive a car that may surprise even core automotive enthusiasts.

More Than Just a Visionary: Mate Rimac's Passion for Cars

Mate Rimac, the Croatian entrepreneur at the helm of Bugatti-Rimac, is not only a driving force in the world of supercars and electric vehicles—he is also a true car enthusiast at heart. His automotive journey began with a modest, worn-out BMW E30, which he converted into an electric car, launching his path toward electrification and high-performance engineering. Despite his ascent to leading the world's most prestigious hypercar brand, Rimac's authentic and adventurous spirit still shapes his daily life.

A Collection Steeped in BMW Heritage—With a Twist

Over the years, Rimac's garage has featured several iconic BMW models, including the legendary M5 E39, the much-admired M3 E30 Sport Evolution, and the Z4 M Coupe. His unmistakable passion for BMW performance cars is clear. Yet, among all these machines, Rimac’s current daily driver stands out: a Volkswagen Golf R32 MkV. This isn't just any hatchback—it’s equipped with a six-speed DSG transmission and renowned for its sharp handling and thrilling V6 performance.

The Volkswagen Golf R32 MkV: Specs and Personalization

Rimac keeps his Golf R32 mostly stock but has plans to enhance its interior quality and smart connectivity, aiming to transform it into a truly impressive hot hatch. Featuring Volkswagen's 3.2-liter VR6 engine paired with all-wheel drive and quick-shifting DSG, the R32 offers a unique, engaging driving experience, even among modern performance hatchbacks. It's a surprising yet logical choice for an executive who appreciates both cutting-edge automotive technology and driver-focused fun.

Performance Vision: Standing Apart in the Automotive World

What truly sets Mate Rimac apart is his unique outlook on the future of performance cars. Unlike many automotive executives who are steering brands toward electric SUVs in response to emissions regulations and industry trends, Rimac remains committed to distinctive, high-performance vehicles. Reports indicate that Volkswagen Group once intended for the successor to the Bugatti Chiron to be an electric SUV. However, under Rimac’s leadership, the direction changed dramatically. Now, the upcoming Bugatti Tourbillon will feature a naturally aspirated 8.3-liter V16 engine mated to a sophisticated hybrid system, preserving Bugatti’s legacy while embracing innovation.

Market Positioning and Comparison

This philosophy not only preserves Bugatti's unassailable position among luxury hypercars but also highlights Rimac's role as a torchbearer for automotive passion in a market increasingly dominated by heavy, indistinguishable SUVs. In a world where individuality and performance are often overshadowed by conformity, leaders like Mate Rimac offer hope for car enthusiasts seeking the excitement and artistry that define the greatest cars.

With automotive icons like the Golf R32 MkV in his personal fleet and an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design and engineering, Rimac is forging a future that honors the past while embracing cutting-edge technology.