The Alpina XB7 (facelift, introduced in December 2022 and produced through August 2024) represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the BMW X7 lineup, meticulously refined by the independent German automotive engineering company, Alpina. Positioned as a high-performance, ultra-luxury Sport Activity Vehicle (SAV), the XB7 facelift builds upon the already impressive X7 platform, offering a substantial power upgrade and bespoke Alpina styling. This iteration of the XB7 falls into the premium segment, competing with vehicles like the Range Rover and high-performance versions of the Mercedes-Benz GLS. It’s a significant evolution of the original XB7, launched in 2020, and showcases Alpina’s expertise in enhancing BMW’s already capable vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | XB7 |
| Generation | XB7 (facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.4 V8 (621 Hp) Mild Hybrid xDrive Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | December, 2022 |
| End of production | August, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SAV |
| Seats | 6-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg, 22.1 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 289 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.9 l/100 km (13.9 US mpg, 16.7 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 279 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 |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 14.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 290 km/h (180.2 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 233.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 301.3 Nm/tonne |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Power | 621 Hp @ 5500-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 1800-5400 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft. @ 1800-5400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S68B44T0 |
| 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 | 2 x Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | Double-VANOS, VALVETRONIC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2655 kg (5853.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3355 kg (7396.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 750 l (26.49 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2120 l (74.87 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5178 mm (203.86 in.) |
| Width | 2000 mm (78.74 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2218 mm (87.32 in.) |
| Height | 1797 mm (70.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3105 mm (122.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1682 mm (66.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1703 mm (67.05 in.) |
| Gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Switch-Tronic |
INTRODUCTION
The Alpina XB7 facelift, launched in late 2022, represents a significant upgrade to the already potent first-generation XB7. Built on the BMW X7 platform (G07), the XB7 is not simply a tuned X7; it’s a comprehensively re-engineered vehicle with unique styling, suspension components, and a substantially more powerful engine. The facelift brought updated styling cues aligning it with the refreshed BMW X7, along with further refinements to the powertrain and interior. The XB7 occupies a unique niche, bridging the gap between a luxury SUV and a high-performance machine. Production continued until August 2024, when it was superseded by the next generation XB7.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the XB7 facelift lies the Alpina-tuned version of BMW’s 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, designated S68B44T0. This engine produces a formidable 621 horsepower at 5500-6500 rpm and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque from 1800-5400 rpm. The engine incorporates a mild-hybrid (MHEV) system with a 48-volt electrical architecture, providing a small power boost and enabling smoother start-stop operation. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, double-VANOS variable valve timing, and VALVETRONIC variable valve lift for optimized efficiency and performance. The exhaust system is a bespoke Alpina design, contributing to both the engine’s power output and its distinctive sound. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a reinforced 8-speed automatic transmission, branded “Switch-Tronic,” which offers quicker shift times and enhanced responsiveness compared to the standard BMW transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The XB7 facelift delivers a driving experience that is both remarkably refined and surprisingly athletic for a vehicle of its size and weight. The 621 hp and 800 Nm of torque provide effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph (290 km/h). The Switch-Tronic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and decisive gear changes. While not as overtly sporty as some dedicated performance SUVs, the XB7 offers a confident and engaging driving experience, thanks to its sophisticated suspension system and precise steering. The air suspension, coupled with Alpina-specific dampers, provides a comfortable ride while minimizing body roll during cornering. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction in all weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The XB7 facelift is exceptionally well-equipped, offering a luxurious and technologically advanced interior. Standard features include premium Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. The interior trim is enhanced with Alpina-specific details, such as unique wood veneers, a bespoke steering wheel, and illuminated door sills. Optional extras include individual rear seats with massage function, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a variety of customization options through Alpina’s bespoke program.
Chassis & Braking
The XB7’s chassis is based on the BMW X7 platform but features significant modifications by Alpina. The suspension utilizes air springs and adaptive dampers, providing a comfortable ride and excellent handling. Alpina-specific stabilizer bars and revised suspension geometry further enhance the vehicle’s dynamics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs all around, with larger front rotors (395×36 mm) and rear rotors (398×28 mm) compared to the standard X7. The brakes are equipped with high-performance calipers and pads for enhanced stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina XB7 facelift was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. Compared to the standard BMW X7, the XB7 offers a significant performance upgrade and a more exclusive feel. Compared to other high-performance luxury SUVs, such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63, the XB7 offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, is reasonable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 18.4 US mpg (combined WLTP). Reliability is generally good, benefiting from BMW’s engineering and Alpina’s meticulous attention to detail.
Legacy
The Alpina XB7 facelift represents a high point in the collaboration between Alpina and BMW. Its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience have established it as a desirable and collectible SUV. On the used car market, the XB7 facelift commands a premium price compared to the standard X7, reflecting its exclusivity and performance. The S68 engine is expected to prove durable, and the overall build quality of the XB7 suggests that it will hold its value well over time. The XB7 facelift solidified Alpina’s reputation as a builder of exceptional high-performance luxury vehicles.
