All eyes on Putin's Aurus Senat as Russian President visits India: Why this luxury limo is so special

Built by Russian automaker Aurus Motors, it was introduced in 2018 and became Putin's official state car.

A big highlight of Russian President Valdimir Putin's security detail is the Aurus Senat, a heavily armoured luxury limousine which the Russian President uses.

According to reports, Putin is expected to use his limousine during his visit to India starting Thursday. Often called a “fortress on wheels,” this car has become a key part of Putin’s travel convoys at home and abroad. In September 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Taijin for the SCO Summit and was seen travelling with Putin in the same limousine.

What makes Aurus Senat unique?

The luxury limo has Rolls-Royce-inspired design, high-speed capabilities, and bulletproof protection. It is often compared to the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

The presidential model features a hybrid 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine, lavish interiors, and extra rear-facing seats for security personnel.

Built by Russian automaker Aurus Motors, it was introduced in 2018 and became Putin's official state car. “Aurus cars are built on a brand new Unified Modular Platform. The modularity principle of design makes it possible to change the wheelbase, length and even type of the car easily and quickly, as well as to adapt the production site for different Aurus models,” according to the brand’s official website.

According to reports, the car seats are covered in premium leather, the cabin has wooden panels, and the rear passengers are surrounded by screens, controls and complete privacy. The seats have heating, cooling and massage functions, and there is a divider that can separate the front and rear cabins.

The cabin has an independent air-filtration system to keep out toxic gases. Its body and windows are bulletproof.

It is powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 hybrid engine, it accelerates from 0-100 kmph in around 6-9 seconds, with a top speed of 160 kmph. The car measures 5,630 mm in length, 2,000 mm in width, 1,700 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,300 mm. Its 9-speed automatic transmission and hybrid engine optimises performance in extreme climates.

The car’s underbody is designed to withstand blasts and the tyres can keep running even if damaged. The fuel tank can also resist explosions.

What is the price?

Aurus produces only 120 Senat units annually. The limousine is priced at 18 million rubles (Rs 2.5 crore). However, Putin's customised version is packed with classified security tech, making it nearly twice as expensive. These versions are not available for ordinary citizens.