Alpina is the sophisticated alternative to BMW M. Recognized as an independent manufacturer, they focus on "effortless performance." Instead of stiff suspensions and high-revving engines, Alpina delivers massive torque, plush comfort, and understated luxury, all riding on their iconic 20-spoke wheels.
Explore the current production vehicles.
The quintessential Alpina. The B7 is the ultimate high-speed luxury sedan, a BMW 7 Series reimagined with monumental torque, a sumptuously refined interior, and the signature 20-spoke classic wheels. It is the definitive iron fist in a velvet glove.
The 'King of SUVs.' The XB7 takes the formidable BMW X7 and elevates it to a new level of performance and luxury. With its hand-finished interior and immense, torque-rich V8, it is arguably the ultimate 3-row luxury performance vehicle on the planet.
Arguably one of the most beautiful grand tourers ever made. The B8 takes the stunning BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé and infuses it with Alpina's signature blend of effortless V8 power, long-distance comfort, and bespoke, handcrafted luxury.
The connoisseur's alternative to the M3. The B3 is a masterpiece of balance, offering supercar-rivalling performance with a more subtle, refined, and comfortable character. It is the ultimate all-rounder for the discerning enthusiast.
The legendary 'autobahn express.' For decades, the B5 has been the ultimate high-speed executive sedan and wagon, a wolf in a business suit that can cross continents at incredible speeds in absolute comfort and luxury. A true icon of understated performance.
The rare and refined version of the BMW Z8. The Alpina Roadster V8 softened the Z8's hard edges, pairing its stunning design with a torque-focused V8 and an automatic transmission to create the ultimate, high-speed luxury cruiser. A true collector's item.
The car that made Alpina a legend. Based on the E34 BMW 5 Series, the B10 Bi-Turbo was the fastest production sedan in the world at its launch, a twin-turbocharged monster that could humble supercars. A true icon of 80s and 90s performance.
The genesis of the legend. Before they were a manufacturer, Alpina was a race-winning tuner. Their work on the classic BMW 2002 established their reputation for creating fast, reliable, and beautifully engineered machines that could dominate the track.
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If you want everyone to look at you, buy a BMW M car. If you want to arrive at your destination faster than the M car but without spilling your coffee, buy an Alpina.
While BMW's M Division focuses on track times, stiff suspension, and high RPMs, Alpina focuses on torque and touring. Their cars are tuned for the Autobahnâhigh-speed stability combined with ride quality that rivals a Bentley.
Like RUF and Brabus, Alpina is recognized by the German Ministry of Transport as an automobile manufacturer.
You can spot an Alpina from a mile away by two features:
BMW never built an "M7" (a full M version of the 7 Series). Why? Because the Alpina B7 existed.
The B7 is a limousine that thinks itâs a dragster. With over 600 HP and massive torque, it can hit 205 MPH, making it one of the fastest sedans on the planet. Yet, the interior is wrapped in Lavalina leather, which is so natural and untreated that it feels like skin.
Founder Burkard Bovensiepen wasn't just a car guy; he was a connoisseur. Alpina is also a famous wine distributor in Germany. The companyâs philosophy on cars reflects a fine wine: complex, smooth, and getting better with age, rather than the "energy drink" vibe of other performance brands.
For decades, Alpina was family-owned. In 2022, it was announced that BMW Group would acquire the Alpina brand, securing its future in an electric world but marking the end of an era for the independent Buchloe-based company.
Alpina is for the driver who has graduated. They don't need aggressive body kits or loud exhausts to prove a point. An Alpina is about "Velocity with Discretion." It is the ultimate "Old Money" performance carâstealthy, exclusive, and exquisitely crafted.
Alpina is officially recognized by the German Federal Ministry of Transport (KBA) as an independent automobile manufacturer.
Although the cars start on BMW production lines, Alpina makes such significant changes to the engine, transmission, and chassis that they are issued a distinct Alpina VIN. On older models, you can often see the original BMW VIN crossed out on the chassis turret.
While both are high-performance vehicles, their philosophies are opposites.
For decades, BMW refused to make an "M7" because they felt a luxury limousine shouldn't be a track car.
The Alpina B7 filled this gap. It offered supercar acceleration (0-60 in roughly 3.5 seconds) and a top speed of 205 mph, making it one of the fastest sedans in the world, but without sacrificing the comfort expected of a 7 Series.
The iconic 20-spoke Alpina Classic wheels are a design trademark. Beyond their look, they feature a unique engineering detail: the valve stem is hidden behind the locking center cap.
Air is filled through a hollow spoke. This keeps the rim face clean and prevents the valve stem from being damaged at high speeds.
Yes. Because of the close partnership between the two companies, Alpina vehicles are fully serviceable at BMW dealerships.
Unlike aftermarket tuned cars (which might be turned away), Alpinas are sold through BMW networks (in the US) and retain a factory warranty, making them the safest choice for high-performance ownership.
Lavalina is widely considered the finest automotive leather available, rivaling Rolls-Royce.
It is a natural, untreated leather used in Alpina interiors. Because it is not coated with thick pigments or plastics, it remains breathable and incredibly soft to the touch, though it requires more care than standard automotive leather.
Generally, no. While standard BMWs are electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h), Alpina removes these limiters.
Alpinas are designed for "High-Speed Touring." For example, the Alpina B5 and B7 are aerodynamically stable and geared to cruise comfortably at speeds exceeding 200 mph.
The Deco Set refers to the classic gold or silver pinstriping available on the sides and front spoilers of Alpina cars.
Introduced in the 1970s, these geometric stripes are a retro nod to the brand's heritage. While many modern buyers opt for a "decal delete" for a stealth look, the Deco Set remains a no-cost option for purists.
Yes. In March 2022, the BMW Group announced it had acquired the rights to the Alpina brand.
The current family-owned operation in Buchloe, Germany, will continue production until the end of 2025. After 2025, the manufacturing of Alpina vehicles will move entirely to BMW's main factories, marking the end of an era for the independent Buchloe facility.
Switch-Tronic was Alpina's pioneering manual shift technology for automatic transmissions.
Introduced in 1993, it allowed drivers to shift gears using buttons located on the back of the steering wheel (integrated into the leather). While paddle shifters are common now, Alpina's small "nipple" buttons remain a unique ergonomic signature favored by many owners.