BMW Alpina: Where Luxury Meets High Performance

The Alpina story began in 1965 when Burkard Bovensiepen, owner of a typewriter manufacturing company, developed a dual-carburetor system for the BMW 1500. After extensive testing, BMW certified the carburetor and began installing it in its vehicles. This marked the beginning of a long-standing partnership between BMW and Alpina.
Alpina (Alpina Burkard Bovensiepen GmbH & Co. KG) specializes in creating high-performance luxury BMW vehicles. Although it operates independently, Alpina works closely with BMW in designing and customizing exclusive models that combine performance, comfort, and elegance.
The production process is unique. Engines are hand-built at the Alpina facility before being sent to BMW for assembly with the vehicle body. The cars then return to Alpina for final interior finishing, transmission tuning, and the installation of the signature Switch-Tronic gear-shifting system. Alpina vehicles are known for their higher torque output, luxurious interiors, unique styling elements, exclusive colors, and distinctive badging.
Engine
Over the years, Alpina has produced several remarkable models. Current and recent examples include:
Alpina XD3 – A 5-door SUV powered by a bi-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine producing 394 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 254 km/h.
Alpina XD4 – A stylish coupe-SUV equipped with a quad-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine generating 380 hp and 567 lb-ft of torque. It completes 0–100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and reaches 266 km/h.
Alpina B3 Bi-Turbo – Available as a sedan or touring model, the B3 features a bi-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine delivering 462 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from 0–100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds.
Alpina B4 Bi-Turbo – A coupe or convertible powered by a bi-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder petrol engine producing 452 hp and 501 lb-ft of torque. It reaches 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and has a top speed of 306 km/h.
Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo – A luxury sedan or wagon featuring a bi-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine with 621 hp. It accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 330 km/h.
Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo – A grand coupe powered by a bi-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine producing 600 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0–100 km/h in 3.3 seconds.
Alpina B7 Bi-Turbo – Based on the BMW 7 Series, this flagship sedan delivers 608 hp from its bi-turbo V8 engine and reaches 100 km/h in only 3.6 seconds.
All models utilize Alpina’s refined 8-speed Switch-Tronic automatic transmission, delivering smooth performance and exceptional driving comfort.
Interior & Exterior
Interior
The BMW Alpina range features premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and exclusive design details. Alpina’s in-house leather workshop creates luxurious upholstery using some of the finest leather available. Standard equipment often includes comfortable sports seats, a HiFi sound system, premium LAVALINA leather, and a sport steering wheel with signature blue and green stitching.
The cabins are spacious and practical, offering generous legroom and headroom for passengers. Storage options include cup holders, bottle holders, and a spacious glove compartment, ensuring everyday usability alongside luxury.
Exterior
Alpina’s exterior styling enhances BMW’s clean design language while improving aerodynamics and road presence. At the front, a large BMW kidney grille is complemented by LED headlights and daytime running lights.
At the rear, a functional spoiler improves stability at high speeds, while the signature stainless-steel sports exhaust system with twin elliptical tailpipes adds elegance and character. Completing the look are the iconic 20-inch Alpina Classic forged wheels, available in Black or Himalaya Grey finishes.

Features
Alpina models come equipped with an extensive range of comfort and technology features. Standard equipment includes high-quality Nappa leather upholstery, a leather-covered instrument panel, multifunction comfort seats, ceramic-trimmed controls, BMW navigation, Parking Assistant, and advanced infotainment systems. Soft-close doors further enhance the luxury experience.
Optional features include a full-color head-up display, rearview camera, and the latest BMW communication and navigation technologies.
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Verdict
The Alpina team has perfected the art of blending luxury, performance, and exclusivity. Their long-standing partnership with BMW has produced some of the most refined high-performance vehicles in the automotive world. Whether you are looking for executive comfort, sports-car performance, or everyday practicality, BMW Alpina models deliver an exceptional driving experience.
Visit BE FORWARD today to explore our selection of used Alpina vehicles and experience the excellence of this legendary brand. Don’t miss out—check the BMW Alpina stocklist and buy yours today