The Alpina B6 Coupe (F13 LCI), produced from 2015 to 2018, represents a high-performance iteration of the BMW 6 Series Coupe. Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, meticulously refined the 6 Series, focusing on enhancing both performance and luxury. The “LCI” designation signifies a Life Cycle Impulse, or facelift, bringing updated styling and technology to the model. This particular variant, equipped with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 600 horsepower and paired with Alpina’s Switch-Tronic eight-speed automatic transmission, occupied the top echelon of the B6 Coupe lineup, offering a compelling alternative to the BMW M6 with a focus on refined power delivery and luxurious appointments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B6 |
| Generation | B6 Coupe (F13 LCI, Facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.4 V8 (600 Hp) Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 219 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 330 km/h (205.05 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.1 kg/Hp, 320.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.3 kg/Nm, 427.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 600 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 136.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 3500-4500 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft. @ 3500-4500 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 | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2320 kg (5114.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4894 mm (192.68 in.) |
| Width | 1894 mm (74.57 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2081 mm (81.93 in.) |
| Height | 1375 mm (54.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2855 mm (112.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1594 mm (62.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1623 mm (63.9 in.) |
| Front overhang | 941 mm (37.05 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1098 mm (43.23 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | 255/35 ZR20; 295/30 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20; 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B6 Coupe lies Alpina’s version of the BMW N63 engine. This 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8, internally designated as the Alpina/BMW S63 engine, benefits from extensive modifications compared to the standard BMW unit. These include bespoke pistons, connecting rods, and a revised cooling system to handle the increased power output of 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and twin scroll turbochargers, contributing to both its responsiveness and efficiency. The Switch-Tronic eight-speed automatic transmission, developed in collaboration with ZF, is a crucial component. It features a unique shift program tailored to Alpina’s performance characteristics, offering both smooth automatic operation and rapid, precise gear changes when controlled manually via steering wheel-mounted paddles. Unlike some performance automatics, the Switch-Tronic prioritizes comfort and drivability alongside outright speed.
Driving Characteristics
The 600 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque deliver exhilarating performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 4 seconds, and the B6 Coupe can reach a top speed of 205 mph. However, the B6’s power delivery is remarkably linear and tractable, making it surprisingly easy to drive in everyday situations. The Switch-Tronic transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing smooth and quick shifts. Compared to the more aggressively tuned BMW M6, the Alpina B6 prioritizes a more refined and comfortable driving experience. The suspension, while firm, is not overly harsh, and the steering is precise and communicative. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and high-speed cruising, providing ample power in any situation.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B6 Coupe came exceptionally well-equipped as standard. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, Alpina-specific interior trim (often featuring wood or carbon fiber), and comfortable, supportive sport seats. Standard features also included a comprehensive infotainment system with navigation, a premium sound system, and a host of driver-assistance technologies. Optional extras included a variety of customization options, such as bespoke interior color schemes, upgraded audio systems, and active suspension systems. The Alpina B6 was positioned as a luxury performance coupe, offering a higher level of refinement and exclusivity than the standard BMW 6 Series.
Chassis & Braking
The B6 Coupe utilizes a modified version of the BMW 6 Series chassis, with Alpina-specific tuning to enhance handling and stability. The suspension features stiffer springs and dampers, along with larger stabilizer bars. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic stability control and traction control systems. The rear suspension typically featured independent multi-link setup, while the front utilized a double-wishbone configuration. The tires, sized 255/35 ZR20 at the front and 295/30 ZR20 at the rear, provide excellent grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B6 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and refinement. Compared to the BMW M6, the B6 was often seen as a more comfortable and usable daily driver, while still offering impressive performance. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was respectable for a high-performance coupe, averaging around 25 mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, although the complex twin-turbocharged engine required diligent maintenance. The B6 Coupe commanded a significant premium over the standard BMW 6 Series, reflecting its exclusivity and enhanced performance.
Legacy
The Alpina B6 Coupe (F13 LCI) remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity continues to appeal to enthusiasts. The 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. However, potential buyers should be aware of the need for regular servicing and the potential for costly repairs if maintenance is neglected. The B6 Coupe represents a unique and compelling offering in the high-performance coupe segment, offering a distinctive alternative to its more mainstream rivals.
