The Alpina B5 Sedan (G30, facelift 2020) GT 4.4 V8 represents the pinnacle of performance within the Alpina B5 range, a high-performance variant based on the BMW 5 Series (G30). Introduced in January 2023, this model builds upon the mid-cycle refresh of the G30 generation, offering a substantial increase in power and refinement over earlier B5 iterations. Positioned as Alpina’s flagship sedan, it caters to drivers seeking a blend of luxury, exhilarating performance, and exclusivity. The “GT” designation signifies the highest performance level within the B5 lineup, emphasizing its grand touring capabilities.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B5 |
| Generation | B5 Sedan (G30, facelift 2020) |
| Type | GT 4.4 V8 (634 Hp) AWD Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 11.6 l/100 km |
| Combined fuel consumption (US mpg) | 20.3 US mpg |
| Combined fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 24.4 UK mpg |
| Combined fuel consumption (km/l) | 8.6 km/l |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 263 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 330 km/h (205.05 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.2 kg/Hp, 308.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.4 kg/Nm, 413.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 634 Hp @ 5500-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 144.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 850 Nm @ 3500-5000 rpm (626.93 lb.-ft. @ 3500-5000 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 | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 2055 kg (4530.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2520 kg (5555.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 465 kg (1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4978 mm (195.98 in.) |
| Width | 1868 mm (73.54 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2126 mm (83.7 in.) |
| Height | 1466 mm (57.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2975 mm (117.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1611 mm (63.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives all four wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 | Front: 255/35 ZR20, Rear: 295/30 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front: 8.5J x 20, Rear: 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B5 GT lies Alpina’s meticulously engineered 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Based on the BMW S63 engine, Alpina significantly modifies it with bespoke pistons, connecting rods, and turbochargers. These enhancements, along with a revised cooling system and exhaust, contribute to the engine’s impressive 634 horsepower and 850 Nm (626.93 lb-ft) of torque. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and features a particulate filter to meet stringent emissions standards. The engine’s longitudinal front-mounted layout is a hallmark of Alpina’s engineering philosophy. The power is transferred to all four wheels via a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned by Alpina’s engineers. This “Switch-Tronic” transmission offers both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles, providing the driver with a high degree of control.
Driving Characteristics
The B5 GT delivers a truly exhilarating driving experience. The substantial torque output, available from as low as 3500 rpm, provides effortless acceleration in any gear. The 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in approximately 3 seconds, and the car continues to pull strongly to its electronically limited top speed of 205 mph. The Switch-Tronic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, adapting to the driver’s style. Compared to the standard BMW 5 Series or even the M5, the Alpina B5 GT offers a more refined and comfortable ride, thanks to its specifically tuned suspension. While still capable in corners, the focus is more on grand touring comfort than outright track performance. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B5 GT comes standard with a comprehensive array of luxury and performance features. Interior appointments include premium leather upholstery, Alpina-specific trim elements (such as wood or carbon fiber), and sport seats. Standard equipment also includes a sophisticated infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather options, and bespoke interior customization options. Alpina offers a high degree of personalization, allowing customers to tailor the B5 GT to their individual preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The B5 GT features a meticulously tuned chassis designed to balance performance and comfort. The suspension utilizes adaptive dampers, allowing the driver to adjust the ride quality to suit their preferences. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system is further enhanced by ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and other electronic stability control systems. The front track measures 1611 mm (63.43 in.), while the rear track is 1596 mm (62.83 in.), contributing to the car’s stable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B5 GT has been well-received by automotive critics, who praise its blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. Compared to the BMW M5, the B5 GT is often seen as a more refined and comfortable alternative, sacrificing some of the M5’s track-focused sharpness for a more relaxed grand touring experience. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, is reasonable for a high-performance vehicle of this size and capability. Reliability is generally considered to be good, benefiting from Alpina’s meticulous engineering and quality control.
Legacy
The Alpina B5 GT (G30) represents a significant step forward in the B5 lineage, offering a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. The 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine is expected to be a durable and reliable powerplant, and the car’s overall build quality is exceptionally high. On the used car market, the B5 GT is likely to hold its value well, appealing to discerning buyers who appreciate its unique character and performance capabilities. It stands as a testament to Alpina’s commitment to creating hand-built, high-performance automobiles that offer a distinctive driving experience.
