When did it appear on the Russian market in 2018? Aurus Senat - the first premium sedan of domestic production, controversy immediately flared up around it. The main question that worries car enthusiasts to this day: “Which foreign car was the Aurus copied from?” Accusations of plagiarism flew from all sides - from body design to technical content. But is this really so?
In this article we will look at Aurus constructive and design solutions through the prism of world analogues, we will compare platforms, engines and electronic systems. You will find out which elements really have foreign roots, and where Russian engineers went their own way. And most importantly, you will understand why accusations of “copying” often turn out to be a myth inflated by a lack of objective information about the development of the car.
1. Aurus platform: Mercedes “clone” or unique development?
The hottest debate is flaring up around carrier platform Aurus. Many are sure that it is completely copied from Mercedes-Benz W222 (S-Class generation 2013–2020). Indeed, the body dimensions, wheelbase and even the location of the suspension mounting points coincide with the German sedan. But this is not yet proof of plagiarism.
In fact, the Aurus platform is deep modification of architecture Nissan F-Alpha, which formed the basis Infiniti Q70 and Nissan Skyline. Russian engineers redesigned it for rear-wheel drive, lengthened the wheelbase and adapted it to domestic operating conditions. Here are the key differences:
- 🔧 Suspension: used in Aurus air suspension with adaptive shock absorbers, while Mercedes has - Magic Body Control with road scanning cameras.
- 🛠️ Body: Aurus roll cage reinforced Kevlar inserts (similar to Bentley Mulsanne), which is not found in German sedans.
- ⚡ Electronics: torque distribution system
4MATICMercedes works differently than all-wheel drive Aurus with couplingHaldex5th generation.
In addition, the Aurus platform is designed to maximum weight 3.5 tons (versus 2.8 tons for the W222), which made it possible to integrate an armored package of the level VR6 without loss of dynamics. This confirms that we are not talking about copying, but about borrowing the best solutions with subsequent refinement.
2. Exterior design: Bentley, Rolls-Royce or Chinese motifs?
The appearance of the Aurus is often compared to Bentley Flying Spur and Rolls-Royce Ghost. Indeed, some elements evoke associations:
- 🚗 Radiator grille: vertical "mustaches" resemble Bentley, but in Aurus they already have chrome trimlike Genesis G90.
- 💡 Headlights: the shape is closer to Rolls-Royce, but the LED “signature” is unique and patented by Russian designers.
- 🔄 Rear: lanterns with vertical orientation copy Maserati Quattroporte, but the overall dimensions and trunk line are original.
Interestingly, in 2020 Chinese brand Hongqi released the model H9, which was accused of copying... just Aurus! This proves that design solutions often overlap in the premium segment. Moreover, sketches of Aurus were developed Italian atelier Italdesign (the same ones who worked on Lamborghini Huracán), which explains the European motives.
| Design element | Aurus Senat | Bentley Flying Spur | Rolls-Royce Ghost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiator grille | Vertical mustache with chrome trim | Massive grille with horizontal slats | "Parthenon" with illumination |
| Headlights | LED matrix with a unique “signature” | Round headlights with Swarovski crystals | Rectangular blocks with laser modules |
| Tail lights | Vertical sections with 3D effect | Oval blocks with chrome frame | Narrow stripes with backlight |
Note the detail: the Aurus logo on the radiator grille is attached to magnetslike Rolls-Royce. This is done for the safety of pedestrians - in the event of a collision, the emblem flies off without injuring a person.
3. Aurus engine: Russian V8 or converted Nissan?
The most controversial topic is 4.4 liter V8 engine, which is installed on Aurus. Many argue that this Nissan VK45DD engine from Infiniti Q70, just with a different control unit. But this is not entirely true.
Indeed, basic architecture borrowed from the Japanese, but the engine has undergone major modifications:
- 🔥 Turbocharging: used in Aurus twin turbo (Nissan has a naturally aspirated version).
- ⚙️ Injection system: direct fuel injection
Bosch Motronic MED17(at Nissan -Hitachi). - 📊 Power: 598 hp versus 420 hp at Infiniti Q70 5.6 V8.
Moreover, gearbox - this is 9-speed automatic ZF 9HP, which is installed on Land Rover, Jaguar and even Chrysler 300C. That is, the transmission has nothing to do with Nissan at all. Thus, talking about “copying” an engine can only be a stretch - we are talking about deep modernization.
Why doesn't Aurus use a hybrid powertrain?
It was originally planned to equip the Aurus with a V6-based hybrid, but the idea was abandoned due to the high cost of certification. In addition, Russian roads and climate require reliability, which is provided only by naturally aspirated or large-volume turbocharged internal combustion engines.
4. Interior: copy of Mercedes S-Class or original design?
The Aurus interior is often compared to Mercedes-Benz S-Class, especially due to:
- 🛋️ Seats: The profile shape and arrangement of adjustments are reminiscent of a German sedan.
- 🎛️ Steering wheel: multifunctional control with touch buttons, as in S-Class W223.
- 📺 Multimedia: two screens on the center console (similar to Mercedes MBUX).
However, there are also unique solutions:
- 🎻 Finish: use natural Karelian birch wood (Aurus exclusive).
- 🔊 Audio system: Bose Panaray with 17 speakers (in S-Class - Burmester with 30 speakers, but a different sound signature).
- 🛡️ Armored version: in Aurus Senat Limousine installed bulletproof glass 52 mm thick (exceed standard VR7).
In addition, interior ergonomics adapted for Russian passengers: increased leg clearance in the back row (1,120 mm versus 1,090 mm for the S-Class) and a wheelbase extended by 200 mm in the version Limousine.
The Aurus interior is compilation of the best solutions premium brands, but with unique materials and adaptation to Russian realities. For example, the climate control system has an “Arctic” mode for operation at −40°C, which foreign competitors do not have.
5. Electronics and security systems: borrowing or innovation?
In terms of electronics, Aurus does use many ready-made solutions from global suppliers:
- 🤖 Adaptive Cruise Control: system Bosch MIDAR (same as Volvo and Audi).
- 🚦 Road sign recognition: cameras Mobileye EyeQ4 (as in BMW 7 Series).
- 🔋 On-board network: architecture
CAN FD(standard for all premium cars).
However, there is also unique developments:
- 🛡️ System "President": a complex of protection against eavesdropping and cyber attacks (there are no analogues in civilian cars).
- 📡 Satellite connection: module Glonass/K for working in GPS jamming conditions.
- 🚨 Emergency Alert: automatic sending of coordinates to the Ministry of Emergency Situations in the event of an accident (mandatory for government orders).
Thus, Aurus electronics are combination of proven solutions (so as not to reinvent the wheel) and specialized systems, which foreign competitors do not have.
⚠️ Attention: In 2022, Aurus faced the problem of sanctions - the supply of chips from Infineon and NXP were suspended. In response, engineers switched to domestic chips Elbrus and Baikal, which led to a 3 month delay in production. This proved that even when borrowing components Aurus is adaptable to external calls.
6. Comparison of Aurus with competitors: where is copying and where is originality?
To objectively assess how “copied” Aurus is, let’s compare it with its direct competitors in key parameters:
| Parameter | Aurus Senat | Mercedes S-Class | Bentley Flying Spur | Hongqi H9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Platform | Modification of Nissan F-Alpha | MRA (unique) | Volkswagen MLB Evo | Toyota New MC |
| Engine | V8 4.4T (598 hp) | V8 4.0T (496 hp) | W12 6.0 (635 hp) | V8 4.0T (381 hp) |
| Gearbox | ZF 9HP | 9G-Tronic | ZF 8HP | Aisin TL-80SN |
| Unique features | Armor package VR6, President system | Magic Body Control, MBUX | Ceramic brakes, Naim Audio | Heating of all interior surfaces |
As you can see from the table, Aurus is neither a complete clone nor a completely unique product. This a typical example of "benchmarking" — when they take the best solutions of competitors and adapt them to their needs. All automakers do this, including Tesla (which borrowed battery technology from Panasonic) and BMW (using boxes ZF).
7. Why are accusations of copying often unfair?
Aurus critics are missing a few key points:
- Localization of production. Yes, many components are borrowed, but assembly, fine-tuning and adaptation are held in Russia. For example, the engine is assembled on Zvezda plant in St. Petersburg, and body panels are stamped in Naberezhnye Chelny.
- Unique requirements. Aurus was developed as a car for government order, which left its mark on the reservation, communication systems and climate control. These solutions have no analogues in civilian cars.
- Economic feasibility. Develop from scratch a platform, engine and electronics for a market of 500–1000 cars per year (Aurus sales volume) - unprofitable. Borrowing proven solutions reduces time and risks.
For comparison: Chinese brand Geely when creating Volvo-platforms CMA also used the developments Ford and Mazda, but no one accuses them of plagiarism. The same goes for Hyundai Equuswho copied Mercedes S-Class 2000s.
⚠️ Attention: If Aurus were truly a "clone", it would be impossible to certify in Europe or the US due to patent lawsuits. However, in 2021 Aurus successfully passed Euro NCAP crash tests (4 stars), which confirms the originality of the design. A clone will not pass such a test.
☑️ How to distinguish the original Aurus from the “clone”
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Aurus and “copying”
❓ Is it true that Aurus is copied from the Mercedes S-Class?
No, it's a myth. Aurus uses modified Nissan F-Alpha platform, not Mercedes MRA. The similarity in dimensions and some design elements is explained general trends in the premium segmentrather than direct copying. For example, vertical tail lights are also available on Maserati, and Genesis.
❓ Why does Aurus have a Nissan engine?
The basic architecture of the V8 is indeed borrowed from Nissan VK, but the engine was deeply modified: double turbocharging was added, the injection system was changed, power was increased to 598 hp. (versus 420 hp for the original). In fact, this is a different motor assembled in Russia.
❓ Which elements in Aurus are definitely original?
Unique solutions include:
- “President” protection system (protection against eavesdropping and cyber attacks).
- Level armor package VR6 with Kevlar inserts.
- Interior trim Karelian birch and gold embroidery.
- Climate control mode “Arctic” for operation at −40°C.
❓ Why is Aurus so expensive if it is “copied”?
Aurus price (from 18 million rubles in 2026) is due to:
- Manual assembly (each car goes through 3 stages of quality control).
- Using exclusive materials (for example, leather poluanlin costs 3 times more than standard).
- Small production volumes (no economies of scale like Mercedes or BMW).
- Integration of special systems for government orders (armor, secure communication channels).
For comparison: Bentley Flying Spur in a similar package costs 25–30 million rubles.
❓ Does Aurus plan to completely stop borrowing?
Yes, but gradually. Debut expected in 2026 new platform Aurus Modular Architecture (AMA), which will be completely original. Work is also underway on hybrid power plant and electric crossover. However, a complete transition to proprietary components will take at least 5–7 years.