The Alpina B4 Coupe (facelift 2017) S 3.0, producing 440 horsepower, represents a high-performance iteration of the BMW 4 Series Coupe. Produced between 2017 and 2019, this model occupied a niche position between the standard BMW 4 Series and the more track-focused M4. Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, independently refined the 4 Series, focusing on enhancing performance, luxury, and driving dynamics. The “facelift” designation refers to updates applied to the 4 Series range in 2017, incorporating revised styling and technology. This particular variant, equipped with the S 3.0 engine and all-wheel drive (Allrad) paired with the Switch-Tronic automatic transmission, was positioned as a premium grand tourer, offering a blend of exhilarating performance and everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B4 |
| Generation | B4 Coupe (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | S 3.0 (440 Hp) Allrad Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg, 24.6 UK mpg, 8.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 303 km/h (188.28 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4 kg/Hp, 250.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 376.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 440 Hp @ 5500-6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 147.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 660 Nm @ 3000-4500 rpm (486.79 lb.-ft. @ 3000-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1755 kg (3869.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4640 mm (182.68 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1373 mm (54.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1576 mm (62.05 in.) |
| 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 | 245/30 ZR20; 265/30 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 20; 9J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B4 Coupe S 3.0 lies Alpina’s version of the BMW N55 engine. While based on the BMW inline-six, Alpina extensively modified it with twin turbochargers, a larger intercooler, and a bespoke engine management system. The engine produces 440 horsepower at 5500-6250 rpm and a substantial 660 Nm (486.79 lb-ft) of torque between 3000 and 4500 rpm. Direct fuel injection ensures precise fuel delivery, while the bi-turbo setup minimizes turbo lag and provides a broad, usable powerband. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and front placement contribute to the car’s balanced handling characteristics.
The “Switch-Tronic” transmission is an 8-speed automatic, derived from the ZF 8HP series. Alpina recalibrated the transmission for quicker shifts and more responsive behavior. Drivers can choose between Drive, Sport, and Manual modes, with the latter allowing for manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The all-wheel-drive system (Allrad) is BMW’s xDrive, featuring a variable torque split between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in all weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The B4 Coupe S 3.0 delivers a refined yet potent driving experience. The combination of the powerful engine and all-wheel drive results in impressive acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 303 km/h (188.28 mph). The Switch-Tronic transmission provides smooth and rapid gear changes, contributing to the car’s effortless cruising ability. Compared to the standard 4 Series or even the M4, the Alpina B4 offers a more comfortable ride, thanks to Alpina’s suspension tuning. While not as overtly sporty as the M4, the B4 provides ample grip and composure in corners, making it a capable and enjoyable performance coupe.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Alpina B4 Coupe came generously equipped. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, navigation, and a host of driver-assistance systems. Alpina-specific touches, such as unique interior trim, badging, and exterior styling cues, distinguished it from the standard BMW 4 Series. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather options, and various customization packages allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle. The interior featured Alpina’s signature blue and green stitching, adding a touch of exclusivity.
Chassis & Braking
The B4 Coupe utilizes a modified version of the BMW 4 Series chassis, with Alpina-tuned suspension components. The suspension features stiffer springs and dampers, along with reinforced anti-roll bars, to improve handling and reduce body roll. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control systems further enhance safety and control. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B4 Coupe S 3.0 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and refinement. Compared to the BMW M4, the Alpina B4 was often seen as a more comfortable and usable daily driver, sacrificing some of the M4’s outright track performance for a more relaxed grand touring experience. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was respectable for a high-performance coupe, averaging around 28.3 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from Alpina’s meticulous engineering and BMW’s robust mechanical components.
Legacy
The Alpina B4 Coupe (facelift 2017) S 3.0 remains a desirable and relatively rare performance coupe. The N55 engine, while not the latest powerplant, is known for its durability and tunability. On the used car market, these vehicles command a premium over standard BMW 4 Series models, reflecting their exclusivity and enhanced performance. The B4 Coupe represents a unique offering from Alpina, bridging the gap between mainstream luxury and high-performance sports cars, and continues to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a refined and exhilarating driving experience.
