The Aurus Senat once captivated the attention of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, but for Russian President Vladimir Putin, it had started to show its age. As Putin commenced his fifth term, amid doubts about the legitimacy of the recent election, he was presented with an updated rendition of the commanding limousine, signaling the start of another six-year tenure as Russia's leader.
Beginning with the exterior, the first notable enhancement is the revamped grille, featuring wider-spaced slats and an ornamental frill adorning its top. The chrome lining along the bottom now extends outwards on each side, drawing attention to the side air intakes. Moreover, the headlights at the forefront of the fascia have undergone an upgrade, now incorporating L-shaped DRLs and matrix LED technology.
Turning to the rear, a more cohesive appearance prevails, characterized by rectangular taillights crowned with a chrome strip stretching across the car's entire width. The license plate holder of the Senat has been repositioned lower onto the bumper, contributing to a refined aesthetic.
Inside the vehicle, Putin's chauffeur will find themselves greeted by a new NAMI MM infotainment system, boasting a generously sized touchscreen that offers customization options. Enhanced camera systems surrounding the vehicle, coupled with a night vision system, ensure heightened vigilance on the road, particularly after sunset.
Under the hood, the Senat retains its hybrid powertrain configuration, anchored by a potent 4.4-liter V8 engine generating 598 horsepower. Power is seamlessly distributed to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission.
However, opinions on these updates may be somewhat moot as the Senat remains inaccessible for purchase to the general public. Presently, Aurus exclusively manufactures these vehicles for Putin's motorcade. Nonetheless, if you happen to find yourself coveting one from afar, reports from Tarantas suggest that broader production is slated to commence in 2025 at a former Toyota plant in St. Petersburg, offering a glimmer of hope to potential enthusiasts worldwide.