The Alpina B5 Sedan (F10 LCI), produced from 2013 to 2017, represents a high-performance iteration of the BMW 5 Series (F10) facelift. Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, independently refined the 5 Series, creating a vehicle that bridges the gap between a luxury sedan and a dedicated sports car. The B5 Sedan, particularly the variant equipped with the 4.4-liter V8 engine producing 600 horsepower and paired with the Switch-Tronic 8-speed automatic transmission, stands as a flagship model within Alpina’s lineup during this period. It catered to drivers seeking exhilarating performance without sacrificing the comfort and refinement expected from a luxury vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B5 |
| Generation | B5 Sedan (F10 LCI, Facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.4 V8 (600 Hp) Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 221 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.0 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 328 km/h (203.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.3 kg/Hp, 304.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm, 406.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 600 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 136.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 3500-4500 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft. @ 3500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 4395 cm3 (268.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2470 kg (5445.42 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal, 15.4 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4913 mm (193.43 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2102 mm (82.76 in.) |
| Height | 1469 mm (57.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm (116.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1599 mm (62.95 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Front overhang | 838 mm (32.99 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1107 mm (43.58 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Switch-Tronic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/35 ZR20; 295/30 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20; 10J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Alpina B5 Sedan (F10 LCI) 4.4 V8 (600 Hp) Switch-Tronic, launched in 2013, represents the pinnacle of Alpina’s refinement of the BMW F10 5 Series. Built upon the foundation of the BMW 550i, Alpina extensively modified the engine, transmission, suspension, and aerodynamics to create a uniquely potent and luxurious grand tourer. This variant occupied the top-tier position within the B5 Sedan range, offering significantly more power and performance than the standard 5 Series models and even surpassing the BMW M5 in certain aspects of drivability and comfort. The “LCI” designation refers to the Life Cycle Impulse, or facelift, applied to the F10 5 Series in 2013, incorporating revised styling and updated technology.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B5 Sedan lies Alpina’s version of the BMW N63 engine – a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. However, Alpina didn’t simply bolt on larger turbos. They extensively reworked the engine internals, including reinforced pistons, connecting rods, and a revised crankshaft. The engine features direct fuel injection, double-VANOS variable valve timing, and a sophisticated cooling system designed to handle the increased thermal load. The result is a staggering 600 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque available between 3500 and 4500 rpm. This power is channeled through a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, which Alpina further optimized with their “Switch-Tronic” system. Switch-Tronic allows for manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles, offering drivers greater control over the powertrain. The transmission is specifically tuned for both rapid shifts and smooth operation, contributing to the B5’s dual character.
Driving Characteristics
The 600 hp and 800 Nm of torque translate into breathtaking performance. The B5 Sedan accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 203.81 mph (328 km/h). However, the B5 isn’t solely about outright speed. Alpina focused on delivering a refined and comfortable driving experience. The Switch-Tronic transmission provides seamless gear changes, and the engine’s broad torque curve ensures effortless acceleration in any gear. Compared to the more track-focused BMW M5, the B5 offers a more compliant ride and a greater emphasis on long-distance comfort. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and high-speed cruising, making it an ideal grand tourer. While the M5 prioritizes sharp handling and aggressive responsiveness, the B5 prioritizes a balance of performance and luxury.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B5 Sedan came exceptionally well-equipped as standard. Interior appointments included Lavalina leather upholstery, Alpina-specific wood trim, and sport seats with adjustable bolstering. Standard features also included a premium sound system, navigation, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, rear-seat entertainment, and a variety of customization options for the interior trim and exterior paint. Alpina offered a bespoke service, allowing customers to personalize their vehicles to a high degree. The interior generally featured Alpina-branded gauges, steering wheel, and door sills, distinguishing it from a standard BMW 5 Series.
Chassis & Braking
Alpina made significant modifications to the chassis to complement the increased power. The suspension was retuned with stiffer springs and dampers, along with a revised stabilizer bar setup. This resulted in improved handling and reduced body roll without compromising ride comfort. The B5 Sedan featured ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system was also upgraded with larger rotors and more aggressive brake pads compared to the standard 5 Series. The car’s electronic stability control system was recalibrated to work in conjunction with the upgraded chassis and brakes, ensuring optimal control in all driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B5 Sedan was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and refinement. Reviewers noted the engine’s impressive power and torque, the transmission’s smooth operation, and the comfortable ride. Compared to the BMW M5, the B5 was often seen as a more sophisticated and user-friendly option, better suited for everyday driving and long-distance journeys. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was respectable for a vehicle of this performance level, averaging around 24.8 US mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from Alpina’s meticulous engineering and quality control.
Legacy
The Alpina B5 Sedan (F10 LCI) 4.4 V8 (600 Hp) Switch-Tronic remains a highly desirable vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity has ensured its continued appeal to enthusiasts. The N63 engine, while known for some potential cooling system issues in earlier iterations, proved to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. The Switch-Tronic transmission is also known for its durability. Today, these cars represent a unique proposition – a high-performance luxury sedan that offers a distinctive driving experience and a level of craftsmanship rarely found in mass-produced vehicles. The B5 Sedan cemented Alpina’s reputation as a builder of exceptional automobiles, capable of enhancing even the already impressive BMW 5 Series.
