The Alpina B5 Touring (G31, facelift 2020) GT 4.4 V8 represents the pinnacle of high-performance, luxury station wagons. Introduced in January 2023, this variant builds upon the BMW 5 Series Touring (G31) platform, meticulously refined by Alpina to deliver an exceptional blend of power, handling, and practicality. Positioned as the flagship of the B5 Touring range, the GT model boasts a significantly uprated engine and performance figures compared to other B5 variants. It caters to drivers seeking uncompromising performance without sacrificing the versatility of a wagon body style. The facelift brought updated styling cues and further technological enhancements to an already impressive platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B5 |
| Generation | B5 Touring (G31, facelift 2020) |
| Type | GT 4.4 V8 (634 Hp) AWD Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 12 l/100 km |
| Combined fuel consumption (US mpg) | 19.6 US mpg |
| Combined fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 23.5 UK mpg |
| Combined fuel consumption (km/l) | 8.3 km/l |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 272 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 328 km/h (203.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp, 294.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm, 394.4 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 | 2155 kg (4750.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2620 kg (5776.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 465 kg (1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1700 l (60.03 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 wheel tires: 255/35 ZR20, Rear wheel tires: 285/30 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 20, Rear wheel rims: 10J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Alpina B5 Touring (G31, facelift 2020) GT 4.4 V8 is a high-performance variant of the BMW 5 Series Touring, meticulously engineered by the independent German automaker Alpina. Production began in January 2023, and it represents the culmination of Alpina’s expertise in enhancing BMW vehicles. Built on the G31 5 Series Touring platform, the B5 GT distinguishes itself through its powerful engine, refined chassis, and luxurious appointments. It occupies the top tier of the B5 Touring lineup, offering a unique proposition for drivers who demand both exhilarating performance and the practicality of a station wagon. The facelift brought subtle but significant updates to the exterior styling and interior technology, further elevating the B5’s appeal.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B5 Touring GT lies Alpina’s hand-built 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine, based on the BMW N63 engine family, has been extensively modified by Alpina to produce 634 horsepower and 850 Nm (626.93 lb.-ft.) of torque. Key upgrades include larger turbochargers, a revised cooling system, and a bespoke engine management system. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and features a compression ratio of 10.5:1. The exhaust system is also unique to Alpina, contributing to both performance and a distinctive sound. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a sophisticated 8-speed automatic transmission, branded as ‘Switch-Tronic’. This transmission features Alpina-specific software for quicker shifts and more responsive performance. The drivetrain is configured with a longitudinal engine layout.
Driving Characteristics
The B5 Touring GT delivers breathtaking acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in just 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 328 km/h (203.81 mph). The Switch-Tronic transmission is tuned for both spirited driving and comfortable cruising. Gear ratios are optimized to provide strong acceleration in all gears, while the transmission seamlessly shifts between ratios. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the standard 5 Series Touring or even the lower-powered B5 variants, the GT model offers a significantly more visceral driving experience. The increased power and torque are readily available, providing effortless overtaking and a thrilling sense of speed. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and handling, offering a surprisingly compliant ride for a vehicle of this performance caliber.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B5 Touring GT is exceptionally well-equipped, offering a luxurious and refined interior. Standard features include premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a high-end sound system. Alpina-specific interior trim elements, such as unique wood veneers and bespoke stitching, further enhance the vehicle’s exclusivity. Optional extras include a rear-seat entertainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a variety of customization options. The dashboard layout is largely consistent with the BMW 5 Series, but with Alpina-branded instrumentation and unique trim details.
Chassis & Braking
The B5 Touring GT benefits from a revised chassis and braking system designed to handle the increased power. The suspension features stiffer springs and dampers, along with reinforced stabilizer bars. The braking system utilizes ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Alpina also incorporates a sophisticated electronic stability control system to enhance safety and control. The vehicle’s weight distribution is carefully optimized to improve handling balance. The front track measures 1611 mm and the rear track 1596 mm.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B5 Touring GT has been widely praised by automotive critics for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and unique blend of practicality and excitement. Compared to other high-performance station wagons, such as the Audi RS6 Avant or the Mercedes-AMG E63 Wagon, the B5 GT offers a more refined and understated driving experience. While the RS6 and E63 may prioritize outright aggression, the B5 GT focuses on delivering a more balanced and sophisticated package. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, is respectable for a vehicle of this performance, achieving around 19.6 US mpg combined.
Legacy
The Alpina B5 Touring GT 4.4 V8 is expected to become a highly sought-after vehicle in the used car market. Alpina’s limited production numbers and the B5’s reputation for reliability and build quality ensure its long-term desirability. The powertrain, while complex, has proven to be robust and durable when properly maintained. The B5 GT represents a unique and compelling offering in the high-performance wagon segment, and its legacy is likely to endure for years to come.
