The dust from the recent introduction of the new F90 BMW M5 have not settled yet and there is yet another new 5-series to drool over. And if you remember, almost immediately after the unveiling, BMW followed up with a First Edition that’s limited to only 400 units which featured Frozen Dark red paint. So what’s this about then?
Based on the G30 5-series, the B5 ALPINA comes with a 4.4-litre V8 Bi-turbo engine featuring Valvetronic variable valve timing and high-pressure direct fuel injection. As a result, it delivers 608 hp with 800 Nm of torque, good for a 0 to 100 km/h time of just 3.5 seconds – making it the fastest accelerating car ALPINA has ever produced. All that torque is contained by an 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission with ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC, to keep that speedometer running to a top speed of 330 km/h.
For the first time, the B5 ALPINA comes with all-wheel drive as standard, based on the BMW xDrive system featuring an ALPINA-specific torque distribution system. Driving dynamics is also supplemented by electronically-adjustable dampers and the active rear-wheel steering system (Integral Active Steering), also a first for the B5 ALPINA.
On the outside, the B5 Alpina gets lightweight 20-inch ALPINA CLASSIC forged wheels with Pirelli tyres specifically tailored for the B5 Alpina, an ALPINA sports exhaust system, integrated air flat control system beneath the kidney grille that closes when necessary to reduce drag. The front spoiler features the new, free-floating ALPINA lettering that allows engineers to integrate additional air inlets into the front apron and to the intercooler.
On the inside, it’s unmistakably ALPINA with subtle touches of elegance. Draped in high-end Nappa leather, standard equipment includes BMW’s latest navigation system and infotainment system together with 4-Zone Auto Climate Control. Other highlights include a handcrafted ALPINA sports steering wrapped in Lavalina leather with blue/green stitching.
The interior comes with several trim options extending to the ALPINA Piano Lacquer or classic ALPINA Luxury Wood Myrtle, and a new ALPINA Luxury Wood Walnut Nature – whose rough cut surface is warm and modern at the same time. The full-coloured LED digital instrument panel is another interesting party piece. In Comfort mode it offers a classic look; with a blue background, red needles and clearly displayed figures. In Sport mode, the display changes to a dynamic appearance with green drag indicators.
In Australia, where prices were recently announced, the BMW ALPINA B5 Bi-turbo goes for AUD 239,900 (approx RM 787,000).
IMAGE GALLERY
