Alpina's B4 is the M4 Gran Coupe you've been waiting for | GRR
Now that BMW is officially at the reins of the much-loved Buchloe-based tune shop, we were excited to get a closer look at what is planned to be the final iterations of the current-generation modified BMW models. In this case, it's a subtle and stylised reimagining that positions the 2022 B4 Gran Coupé somewhere between the BMW 4 Series and BMW M4 Competition.
From first glance, the B4 looks much sportier and more chiselled with a front spoiler and razor-sharp 20-spoked 20-inch alloy wheels, instantly evoking the Alpina look that has been used to add aesthetic pep to their cars for decades. The B4 has also picked up a new pair of rear doors, adding another identifying feature to the release.
Performance-wise, the B4 is no slouch. Deploying the same 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six that is found with the Alpina B3, boosted with a new pipe, exhaust system and engine software that bolts on an extra 33PS (24kW) of power. It’s a tune-up that brings the total output to 495PS (364kW) with torque pulling at 730Nm (538lb ft).
Channelling all that power is the xDrive all-wheel-drive system with an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential. Constantly working in the background to keep any heart-stopping behavioral issues at bay. Stamping on the go pedal will see the unquestionably pretty B4 – even with that Marmite grille that still splits opinion – accelerate from 0-62mph in 3.7 seconds, with a 0-124mph of 12.9 seconds. Top speeds max out at a potent 187mph. That's wonderfully over the top for something you’ll likely see pootling off to a weekend golf retreat or corporate dinner party.
It’s a small detail not lost on BMW Alpina, especially so with their focus on delivering a grand touring platform that is not only exciting when required, but also smooth, comforting and safe. Considerations seen in the development of bolstered bulkhead struts, stiffer bushings and new variable dampers. Upgraded four-piston brakes holding onto 395mm front discs and 345mm rear discs are also there to manage the extra weight and speed.
Available to order now, with the first examples likely to hit the road come July and August, the 2022 BMW Alpina B4 Gran Coupé starts from £80,663 and hints at an exciting, collaborative future of sharp and sophisticated motorcars.
Photography by Joe Harding