Russian oligarchs who didn’t die “mysteriously” have good news waiting when Aurus unveils the all-new Komendant.
Designed to provide “impeccable comfort on every journey”, the Komendant is an ultra-luxury SUV in the same vein as the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
The similarities with the latter are undeniable, as the Komendant has a “masculine and monumental” exterior with a massive 22-blade grille. It is flanked by LED headlights and hefty air intakes.
Further back we see double glazing, a prominent shoulder line and 20-, 21- or 22-inch wheels. Other highlights include square exhaust tips, a power tailgate and a heated windshield.
In terms of dimensions, the Komendant is 5380 mm long, 78.9 inches (2004 mm) wide and 71.7 inches (1820 mm) high with a wheelbase of 3100 mm. To put those numbers into perspective, the model is 39mm longer than the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, but rides on a 7.7in (195mm) shorter wheelbase.
Entering the interior, the Oleg’s of the world reveals an elegant interior with Nappa leather upholstery, metallic accents and Popular Black, Silver Birch Burl or Dark Brown Ash upholstery.
They are accompanied by a digital instrument panel, a widescreen infotainment system and an analog clock. Buyers will also find a four-zone climate control system, mood lighting, heated/cooled cup holders and front/rear wireless smartphone chargers.
Given its status as an ultra-luxury SUV, there are two separate rear seats with heating, ventilation and massage functions. They are separated by a wide center console with fold-out tables and a ‘minibar’ with a fridge. The model also features a dual screen entertainment system at the rear and what looks like vanity mirrors at the rear.
Aurus noted that customers can personalize their vehicle as the company offers custom paint jobs, engraving on sill plates and special embroidery on the headrest. Buyers can also order special veneers and unique upholstery.
Power is provided by a hybridized twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces 590 hp (440 kW/598 hp) and 649 lb-ft (880 Nm) of torque. It is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. This setup allows the 7,132 lb (3,235 kg) Komendant to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 6.5 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 220 km/h. Despite its hybrid powertrain, the SUV is a thirsty Russian, as it has a combined fuel economy of 18.5 l/100 km (12.7 mpg US).
Rounding out the highlights is an adaptive air suspension that provides up to 10.2 inches (260 mm) of ground clearance. The model also has a head-up display, a surround camera system and advanced driver assistance systems.
The price reportedly starts at 33.7 million rubles, which amounts to $580,784 (£515,205 / €592,484). That’s pretty hefty considering the Cullinan starts around $350,000 in the United States.
