The Alpina B5 Touring (G31) 4.4 V8 BiTurbo, produced from September 2017 to October 2020, represents a high-performance iteration of the BMW 5 Series Touring (G31) wagon. Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, meticulously refines BMW models, and the B5 Touring is a prime example of this expertise. Positioned as a luxurious and exceptionally quick grand tourer, the B5 Touring caters to buyers seeking a blend of practicality, performance, and exclusivity. It occupies the top echelon of performance wagons, competing with models like the Audi RS6 Avant and the Mercedes-AMG E 63 Estate. This specific variant, equipped with the 4.4-liter V8 BiTurbo engine and all-wheel drive paired with the Switch-Tronic automatic transmission, is the flagship of the B5 Touring range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B5 |
| Generation | B5 Touring (G31) |
| Type | 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 | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg, 27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 241 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 325 km/h (201.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp, 296.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 390.2 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 | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2610 kg (5754.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 570 l (20.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1700 l (60.03 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 | 1860 mm (73.23 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; 285/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20; 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B5 Touring lies Alpina’s version of the BMW S63Tu engine – a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. While based on the BMW unit, Alpina extensively modifies it with bespoke pistons, connecting rods, and turbochargers. These changes, along with a revised cooling system and engine management software, contribute to the engine’s impressive output of 608 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and double-VANOS variable valve timing for optimized performance and efficiency. The ‘Switch-Tronic’ 8-speed automatic transmission, also derived from BMW, is specifically calibrated by Alpina for quicker shifts and a more responsive driving experience. It features a dedicated sport mode and the ability to manually shift gears via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The B5 Touring delivers exhilarating performance. Its all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction, allowing for a 0-60 mph sprint in just 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 201.95 mph. The engine’s broad torque curve ensures strong acceleration in any gear, making overtaking effortless. Compared to the standard 5 Series or even the M5, the B5 Touring offers a more relaxed and refined driving experience. The suspension, while firm, is tuned for comfort, absorbing road imperfections effectively. The Switch-Tronic transmission provides smooth and precise gear changes, contributing to a seamless driving experience. While not as track-focused as the M5, the B5 Touring offers a compelling blend of performance and luxury.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B5 Touring comes exceptionally well-equipped as standard. Interior features typically include Lavalina leather upholstery, Alpina-specific interior trim (often utilizing wood or carbon fiber), sport seats with adjustable bolsters, and a premium sound system. Standard technology includes BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, navigation, and a suite of driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras could include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather options, and individual color choices. The overall ambiance is one of understated luxury and meticulous craftsmanship.
Chassis & Braking
The B5 Touring benefits from a reinforced chassis and a specifically tuned suspension system. Alpina utilizes Eibach springs and dampers, along with stiffer anti-roll bars, to improve handling and reduce body roll. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system is further enhanced by ABS and electronic brake-force distribution. The standard tire size is 255/35 R20 at the front and 285/30 R20 at the rear, providing excellent grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B5 Touring was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. Compared to the BMW M5 Touring (which was not officially offered in the US market during this generation), the B5 Touring was often seen as a more comfortable and usable daily driver, while still offering impressive performance. Fuel economy, while not a priority for buyers in this segment, was respectable for a vehicle of this size and performance, averaging around 22.6 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from Alpina’s meticulous engineering and BMW’s robust mechanicals.
Legacy
The Alpina B5 Touring (G31) remains a highly desirable vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and practicality makes it a compelling alternative to more mainstream performance wagons. The 4.4-liter V8 BiTurbo engine is known for its durability, provided it receives regular maintenance. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of a standard BMW 5 Series, the B5 Touring’s exclusivity and performance justify the expense for many enthusiasts. As a limited-production model, the B5 Touring is likely to appreciate in value over time, solidifying its status as a modern classic.
