Russian premium brand Aurus has become one of the most discussed phenomena in the domestic auto industry in recent years. The appearance of the brand marked Russia's return to the club of luxury car manufacturers capable of competing with famous European and American giants. Today, the company's lineup includes several models, each of which embodies a unique combination of advanced technology, luxury and power.
The entire line is based on a single modular platform EMP (Ego Modular Platform), developed jointly with the German company Porsche Engineering. This solution made it possible to create cars with different wheelbases and body types, while maintaining general architectural principles and a high level of safety. A key feature of the platform is the ability to create hybrid power plants with electric traction on the front axle. It was this technological base that became the foundation for the creation of a whole family of machines designed to satisfy the needs of the most demanding customers.
The history of the brand is inextricably linked with the “Cortege” project, the goal of which was to develop a domestic car for top officials of the state. However, the ambitions of the creators extended beyond protocol machines, covering segments available to private buyers and corporate fleets. In this article we will analyze in detail each model available on the market, analyze their technical features and determine how they stand out in their class.
The heart of the project: Aurus Senat
The first and, perhaps, the most iconic model of the brand was the sedan Aurus Senat. This car was originally designed as a replacement for the Mercedes-Benz S-class W140 in a government garage, but quickly gained popularity among the private clientele. The Senate is available in two versions: standard with a wheelbase of 3300 mm and extended Long with a wheelbase of 3860 mm, which allows you to choose between dynamic handling and maximum comfort for rear-row passengers.
The appearance of the car causes polar reactions, but it is impossible to deny its monumentality. The massive radiator grille, vertical optics and strict body lines create an image of confidence and stability. The interior is trimmed with genuine leather, wood and metal, and a multimedia system with separate screens for driver and passenger provides full control over comfort systems.
- 🚀 The 4.4-liter V8 engine paired with an electric motor produces a total power of 598 horsepower.
- 💎 The interior can be customized to suit the customer’s individual preferences using rare wood species.
- 🛡️ The body has enhanced protection and meets high safety standards for cars of this class.
The Senate's dynamic performance is impressive for a vehicle weighing over two tonnes. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes less than 6 seconds, which is comparable to business class sports sedans. Eight-speed automatic transmission NAMI-KATE works in tandem with all-wheel drive, ensuring a smooth ride even at high speeds.
⚠️ Attention: The dimensions of the Senat Long version require special parking skills and may be limited for entry into some underground parking lots with low ceilings or narrow entrances.
Flagship SUV Aurus Komendant
The second iconic model in the line was a full-size SUV Aurus Komendant. The name, which refers to a military rank, fully corresponds to the character of the car: it is a dominant monster on the road, designed to compete with the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Bentley Bentayga. The Commander retained the brand's signature design code, receiving recognizable vertical optics and massive body shapes.
The car is built on the same EMP platform as the Senate, but has a fully independent suspension with pneumatic elements, which allows you to change the ground clearance over a wide range. This makes the Commander not only a comfortable city crossover, but also a capable SUV that can overcome serious off-road conditions, although its main purpose is asphalt highways and executive entrances.
Inside, the Commander offers space comparable to the best examples of the global automotive industry. The third row of seats, available in some configurations, turns the car into a full-fledged seven-seater transport for a large family or delegation. Finishing materials undergo strict quality control, and sound insulation is made using technologies used in aviation.
- ⛰️ Ground clearance is adjustable from 180 to 240 mm depending on the selected driving mode.
- 🏎️ Acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 5.7 seconds thanks to the same hybrid setup as the Senate.
- 👨👩👧👦 The ability to configure the cabin with both 4 and 7 seats provides flexibility of use.
The Commander's technical equipment includes all modern active safety systems. Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping and blind spot monitoring systems work in conjunction with high-definition cameras. Various transmission modes are available to the driver, including sports and off-road, which makes driving such a large vehicle intuitive.
Secrets of the Commander's aerodynamics
Despite the angular shape, engineers managed to achieve a drag coefficient comparable to more streamlined crossovers, thanks to carefully crafted air intakes and the underbody.
Exclusive limousine Aurus Arsenal
Limousine closes the top three main models. Aurus Arsenal, created specifically for the top officials of the state. This is not just an extended version of the Senate, but a fundamentally different car with a 6x4 wheel arrangement, where the two rear axles are rotary. This design allows the car to have a turning radius comparable to a conventional sedan, despite being over 6.6 meters long.
The arsenal was created for protocol events and the movement of heads of state under conditions of increased security requirements. The car body has enhanced armor protection, and the glass can withstand hits from large-caliber bullets. The interior space is divided into zones, providing absolute privacy and comfort for passengers during long hauls.
Arsenal production is carried out in extremely small series, and each car is assembled almost by hand, taking into account the individual requirements of the customer. This makes it one of the rarest and most expensive cars in the world, a status symbol that cannot be purchased at a regular car dealership.
- 📏 The length of the car is more than 6600 mm, which makes it the longest production car of the brand.
- 🔒 The armor level corresponds to protection class BR6 and higher, ensuring safety against any threats.
- 🔄 The unique rear axle steering system significantly improves maneuverability in urban environments.
Arsenal's technical components are hidden from prying eyes, but it is known that it uses a souped-up version of the hybrid power plant. The reliability of components and assemblies has been tested under extreme conditions, which is confirmed by the successful use of the vehicle as part of the motorcades of the country's top officials at international events.
Technical characteristics and power plants
The basis of the Aurus model range is a hybrid power plant developed by US. It consists of a 4.4-liter V8 petrol engine with twin turbocharging and an electric motor integrated into the gearbox. This scheme allows not only to improve dynamic characteristics, but also to reduce fuel consumption in the urban cycle due to the possibility of driving on electric power at low speeds.
Transmission NAMI-KATE is a nine-speed automatic transmission capable of processing a huge torque of 1000 Nm. The gearbox is characterized by fast and smooth shifting, which is critical for luxury cars, where jerking when changing gears is unacceptable.
Below is a comparative table of the main technical characteristics of Aurus models:
| Model | Engine | Power (hp) | Acceleration 0-100 km/h | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aurus Senat | 4.4 V8 Turbo + EM | 598 | 5.8 sec | Full |
| Aurus Komendant | 4.4 V8 Turbo + EM | 598 | 5.7 sec | Full |
| Aurus Arsenal | 4.4 V8 Turbo + EM | 840 (est.) | 6.5 sec | Full (6x4) |
It is important to note that all cars are equipped with an energy recovery system that charges the high-voltage battery when braking. The cruising range on pure electric power is about 60 kilometers, which allows you to silently and environmentally move around the center of the metropolis in EV.
☑️ Check before test drive Aurus
Design and interior: philosophy of luxury
The design of Aurus cars was developed with an eye on the best traditions of the Soviet automobile industry, in particular, the legendary ZIL-114, but using modern aesthetics. The vertical lines that dominate the exterior are designed to emphasize status and grandeur. Each element, from the shape of the headlights to the design of the wheel rims, carries a semantic load and refers to the historical heritage.
Car interiors are a separate topic for engineers and designers to be proud of. Natural materials are used in the decoration: premium leather, polished metal, open-pore wood and even custom-made stones such as onyx or malachite. The interior is assembled by hand, which guarantees a perfect fit of all parts.
Multimedia system, called Aurus Connect, is integrated into the front panel and supports many functions, including navigation, Internet services and climate control. For rear row passengers, separate displays are provided that allow you to control the climate, multimedia and seat position without distracting the driver.
- 🎵 The premium audio system is adjusted individually to the cabin acoustics.
- 🌡️ Four-zone climate control with air ionization creates an ideal microclimate.
- 💺 Massage seats with multiple adjustments provide comfort on long trips.
⚠️ Attention: Natural finishing materials require special care. It is not recommended to use aggressive chemicals to clean leather and wood, so as not to damage the protective layer and structure of the material.
When ordering an individual interior configuration, pay attention to the color of the stitching threads - contrasting stitching visually changes the perception of the geometry of the seats and panels.
Development prospects and new models
The Aurus model range does not stand still. The company plans to expand the line with more affordable models that will be able to compete in the business class segment. A cross-coupe and, possibly, a compact crossover are expected to appear, which will become an entry point into the world of the Russian luxury brand for a wider audience.
Particular attention is paid to the development of electric versions. The EMP hybrid platform was originally designed with electrification in mind, making it relatively easy to create all-electric modifications. In the future, we could see an Aurus with a range of over 500 kilometers on a single charge, taking the brand to a new level of sustainability.
Export potential is also high. The countries of the Middle East and Asia are showing interest in the brand, where status and massive cars are valued. Entering international markets will require adaptation to local standards and preferences, but the technical base for this is already ready.
The success of Aurus depends not only on technical characteristics, but also on the brand's ability to create around itself an aura of exclusivity and prestige that is understandable to the global consumer.
Conclusion
The Aurus range today represents a balanced combination of tradition and innovation. The brand was able to offer a product that is not a simple copy of Western analogues, but has its own personality and philosophy. Senate, Commander and Arsenal are cars for those who value individuality and are ready to support a high-level domestic manufacturer.
Buying an Aurus is not just a vehicle, it is an investment in history and support of a strategically important industry. Every year, the build quality, reliability of components and level of service are increasing, making owning a Russian luxury car more and more attractive and hassle-free.
How much does the most affordable Aurus cost?
The cost of the basic version of Aurus Senat starts from 22-23 million rubles, but the price can vary significantly depending on the selected configuration, options and individual order.
Does Aurus have an all-electric version?
At the moment, all production models are hybrid (gasoline + electric). All-electric versions are in development and testing and are expected to appear in the coming years.
Where can I get my Aurus serviced?
Maintenance is carried out in specialized service centers of the brand located in major cities of Russia. Owners are provided with a personal manager and mobile support service.
What is the warranty on Aurus vehicles?
The standard warranty on Aurus vehicles is 4 years or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Extended service programs are available.