The Alpina B5 Sedan (G30), powered by a 4.4-liter V8 BiTurbo engine producing 608 horsepower, represents a unique blend of luxury, performance, and exclusivity. Produced between September 2017 and October 2020, the B5 Sedan occupied a niche position within the BMW 5 Series (G30) generation, offering significantly enhanced performance and bespoke features. Alpina, a relatively small German manufacturer, traditionally refines BMW models, creating vehicles that bridge the gap between standard BMW offerings and the high-performance ‘M’ cars. The B5 Sedan aimed to deliver a more refined and comfortable grand touring experience than the overtly sporty M5, while still providing exhilarating acceleration and handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B5 |
| Generation | B5 Sedan (G30) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.4 V8 BiTurbo (608 Hp) AWD Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | September, 2017 |
| End of production | October, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.6 l/100 km (16.1 US mpg, 19.3 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg, 9.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 239 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 330 km/h (205.05 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.2 kg/Hp, 313.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.4 kg/Nm, 412.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 608 Hp @ 5750-6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 138.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 3000-5000 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft. @ 3000-5000 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 | 10:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2470 kg (5445.42 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal, 14.52 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4956 mm (195.12 in.) |
| Width | 1868 mm (73.54 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.) |
| 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), Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/35 R20; 295/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20; 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B5 Sedan lies the Alpina-tuned version of BMW’s N63 engine. This 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 benefits from extensive modifications, including larger turbochargers, a revised cooling system, and a bespoke engine management system. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and double-VANOS variable valve timing, contributing to its impressive power output and responsiveness. The ‘Switch-Tronic’ 8-speed automatic transmission, also derived from BMW, is specifically calibrated for Alpina to provide smooth yet rapid gear changes. It features a sport mode and manual shift capability, allowing drivers to take greater control. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout, coupled with Alpina’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, ensures optimal traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The B5 Sedan delivers a remarkably refined yet potent driving experience. The 608 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque provide effortless acceleration, with 0-60 mph achievable in just 3.3 seconds. The Switch-Tronic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering seamless shifts and quick responses. Compared to the standard BMW 540i, the B5 provides a more immediate throttle response and a more aggressive exhaust note. While not as track-focused as the M5, the B5 offers ample grip and composure in corners, thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and Alpina-tuned suspension. The ride quality is surprisingly comfortable, even with the performance-oriented setup.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B5 Sedan came exceptionally well-equipped as standard. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, Alpina-specific interior trim (often featuring wood or carbon fiber), and sport seats. Standard features also included a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a premium sound system, a head-up display, and various customization options for the interior and exterior. Alpina offered a high degree of personalization, allowing customers to tailor their B5 to their specific preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The B5 Sedan’s chassis benefits from Alpina’s expertise in suspension tuning. The suspension system features stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard 5 Series, along with reinforced stabilizer bars. This results in reduced body roll and improved handling. The braking system utilizes ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The Alpina B5 also features a model-specific steering calibration for enhanced feel and precision.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B5 Sedan was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. Reviewers noted its comfortable ride, powerful engine, and refined interior. Compared to the BMW M5, the B5 was often seen as a more civilized and comfortable alternative, better suited for long-distance grand touring. Fuel economy, while not a priority for this type of vehicle, was respectable for its performance level, averaging around 22.8 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from the underlying BMW engineering and Alpina’s meticulous attention to detail.
Legacy
The Alpina B5 Sedan (G30) remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. Its limited production numbers and unique character contribute to its collectibility. The 4.4-liter V8 BiTurbo engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is essential. As with any high-performance vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of the costs associated with servicing and repairs. The B5 Sedan represents a compelling alternative to the more mainstream performance sedans, offering a unique blend of luxury, performance, and exclusivity that continues to appeal to discerning drivers.
