The 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive: The Ultimate Blend of Luxury, Style and Performance

BMW combines cutting-edge technology, precision engineering and refined luxury in each model it introduces. Now with the release of the highly-anticipated 2023 8 Series ALPINA B8 xDrive Coupe and Gran Coupe models, BMW is once again pushing the limits of automotive excellence.

The new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive stands on the shoulders of the legendary BMW 8 Series luxury vehicles that have represented the pinnacle of BMW style, engineering and driver-focused performance for decades. But the latest generation 8 Series takes the concept into uncharted territory.

In this deep dive review, we’ll explore what makes the new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive so special including:

 

• • Overview of Key 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive Features

• • Detailed Review of Powertrain and Performance

• • Inside Look at New Technology and Connectivity

• • Analysis of Handling and Driving Dynamics

• • Overview of Luxury Interior Details

• • Examination of Standard and Available Features

• • How the New B8 Compares to Past BMW 8 Series

• • Pricing and Trim Level Breakdown

• • Early 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive Reviews and Reception

After getting an inside look at this pinnacle BMW luxury performance machine, it’s easy to see why the 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive is one of the most hotly anticipated vehicle debuts of 2023.

Introducing the Groundbreaking 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive

The BMW 8 Series vehicles sit at the top of BMW’s lineup representing the utmost in style, luxury, and driving performance the brand offers. For 2023, the new limited production BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive Coupe and Gran Coupe take things to the next level blending raw power with refined craftsmanship.

Based on the gorgeous lines and balanced rear-wheel drive architecture of BMW’s 5th generation 8 Series, the 2023 B8 receives extensive performance upgrades and styling enhancements from legendary BMW tuner ALPINA.

The enhancements build upon the already stellar pedigree of the BMW 8 to create an intoxicating luxury grand touring machine. Here’s an at-a-glance rundown of the new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive highlights:

 

• • Handcrafted limited production run tuned by ALPINA

• • Aggressive new front and rear styling treatment

• • Signature ALPINA 20-spoke staggered alloy wheels

• • Powerful 4.4L twin-turbo V8 pumping out 630 horsepower

• • 0-60 mph in under 3.3 seconds with ALPINA B8 xDrive variant

• • Top speed of 201 mph

• • Upgraded high-performance chassis and suspension

• • Latest technology including 12.3” digital driver display, BMW iDrive 8, and 16-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound system

• • Standard all-wheel drive with advanced torque distribution

• • Enhanced interior design with unique Lavalina leather

With exotic supercar power and presence paired with trademark BMW luxury, engineering and handling, the new BMW ALPINA B8 makes a serious case for being the absolute pinnacle BMW model available today.

In-Depth Look at BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive Performance and Powertrain

The visceral driving experience of the new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive Coupe and Gran Coupe starts with what’s under the sculpted hood.

This special limited edition BMW receives substantial powertrain and performance upgrades courtesy of legendary BMW tuner ALPINA.

Powerful Twin-Turbo 4.4L BMW V8

The beating heart of the new BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive is the 4.4-liter BMW twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This powerplant also sees duty in BMW M models like the M5 and X5 M where it likewise produces abundant power.

But for the B8, ALPINA has specially tuned and enhanced the already formidable engine to churn out a prodigious 630 horsepower at 5500-6250 rpm. Equally important, peak torque output arrives at just 3000 rpm and extends across a wide plateau maxing out at 590 ft-lbs. from 3000 to 5500 rpm.

This turbine-like power delivery combines with a host of drivetrain upgrades described below to deliver soul-stirring acceleration.

8-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission

Harnessing the twin-turbo V8’s power is a specially calibrated ZF 8HP sport automatic transmission. The transmission offers silky smooth yet crisp shifts via steering wheel paddles or the BMW gear selector.

ALPINA has programmed bespoke transmission tuning that optimizes responsiveness when dialing up engine rpm in Sport mode. The transmission eagerly downshifts under hard acceleration for maximized performance.

Specially Calibrated All-Wheel Drive

The BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive sends its prodigious output to all four wheels for enhanced grip though BMW’s advanced xDrive AWD platform. Torque split defaults to rear-wheel drive for enhanced dynamics and control but can direct up to 100% of available torque to the front or rear wheels as conditions dictate.

ALPINA has honed the calibration of the active M Sport rear differential and AWD system for high-performance duty. Power flows to the pavement with minimal unwanted slippage under hard launches and acceleration for incredible grip.

New Lowered Adaptive Suspension

To handle the tremendous output, ALPINA has specially developed an adaptive suspension system for the BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive in partnership with specialists at ZF. This gives the BMW a lower, tighter ride height and advanced multi-sensor dampers.

Ride comfort in Comfort mode rivals the legendary S-Class, aided by standard active roll stabilization. Yet flick to Sport or Sport Plus mode and the B8 chassis delivers sharpened, tactile handling with minimal body roll despite the larger frame.

Enhanced Aerodynamics

A host of functional aerodynamic enhancements reduce drag and increase downforce for more confident high-speed handling. These include an active rear wing, special rear diffuser, and unique front splitter.

New Exhaust System

ALPINA’s specially developed stainless steel exhaust system maintains a refined note at low rpm but comes alive with a deep sonorous growl under heavy throttle accompanied by signature burbles and pops. Valves allow adjusting the exhaust volume.

Lightweight Forged Wheels

The BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive rides on staggered 20” forged aluminum wheels handmade in Germany. Stricking a 20-spoke classic design, the forged wheels are over 15 pounds lighter per corner enhancing ride and handling.

High-Performance Brakes

Large diameter discs with 4-piston front calipers give the B8 impressive stopping power from high rates of speed. Blue painted brake calipers visible through the wheels announce the vehicle’s performance pedigree.

With this collection of powertrain enhancements, the BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive delivers incredible supercar-rivaling performance:

 

• • 0-60 mph in just 3.0 seconds (B8 Coupe) or 3.3 seconds (B8 Gran Coupe)

• • Quickest BMW production model ever with ALPINA tuning

• • Top speed of 201 mph

• • Quarter mile in 11.6 seconds @ 123 mph

The BMW twin-turbo V8 engine paired with ALPINA’s magic touch makes the 2023 B8 xDrive one of the quickest and fastest BMWs ever produced.

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Inside Look at New Technology and Connectivity

In addition to the upgraded performance, the new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive also debuts new technology and connectivity features. Highlights include:

Panoramic Glass Roof

The new B8 can be outfitted with a massive Panoramic Sky Lounge LED-illuminated glass roof. Spanning the entire cabin, it amplifies the sense of space and light. Electrochromic tinting allows adjustment of visible light transmittance.

Iconic ALPINA Blue Displays

The cabin features distinct ALPINA Blue ambient lighting and matching digital displays – a nod to the famous ALPINA Blue metallic paint option. These unique displays look fantastic in both day and night driving.

iDrive 8 Infotainment System

The latest generation BMW iDrive 8 system is standard, with a 12.3” digital gauge cluster and 14.9” central touch display screen. iDrive 8 enables wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto plus enhanced voice control and navigation.

Iconic ALPINA Display Theme

iDrive 8 offers a bespoke ALPINA display theme and font tailored to the brand’s identity. Unique ALPINA performance gauges in the instrument cluster put power readouts front and center.

16-Speaker Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Audio

A top-tier 710 watt 16-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system provides reference-quality audio reproduction aided by Alcantara headliner reflectance.

Active Driving Assistant Professional

The latest BMW active safety suite includes driving assistants like active blind spot detection, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, evasion assistant, intersection crossing, and emergency stop.

Parking Assistant Professional

For parking, the BMW Assistant Professional integrates a 360-degree exterior camera system and Reversing Assistant to autonomously handle steering when backing up or entering tight spaces. Parallel parking becomes hands-free.

Latest Navigation System

The 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive comes equipped with BMW’s latest satellite-assisted navigation system with real-time traffic avoidance. Over-the-air updates keep maps fresh for years via built-in 5G connectivity.

With all the latest digital features and Alpina-exclusive touches, the new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 elevates an already tech-packed BMW interior experience.

Driving Dynamics and Performance of the BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive

BMW holds the coveted reputation as one of the world’s preeminent driving machines thanks to its incredible handling capabilities. For the 2023 ALPINA B8 xDrive, this dynamics pedigree sees substantial improvement:

Ride Comfort

Even with stiffer racing-derived suspension calibration, the B8 glides over imperfections thanks to adaptive dual-axle air suspension. The wide, planted stance suppresses body roll in corners without sacrificing compliance.

Steering and Handling

The quickened variable sport steering system provides a connected feel with the road. Steering effort ramps up appropriately in Sport mode but avoids heaviness at lower speeds. Overall the B8 handles and steers like a smaller vehicle despite its size.

Braking Performance

Large 15.5” front rotors squeezed by 4-piston calipers rein in speed with authority and during sustained use thanks to cross-drilled and vented discs. Minimal brake fade results even at the limit.

All-Wheel Drive Traction

With 4 wheels putting power down, the B8 launches from a standstill with catapult-like acceleration absent of spin or drama. The active M Sport rear differential further enhances grip.

Agile High-Speed Manners

At speed, the lowered adaptive suspension, enhance aero elements, torque vectoring, and wide sticky tires keep the B8 planted throughsweepers – defying physics for a vehicle this large.

Exhaust Note

The specially tuned exhaust announces the B8’s potency with a sophisticated yet aggressive soundtrack. Burbles, pops and roar are available on demand via the M Sound button.

Alpina’s engineering and setup mastery elevates the BMW driving experience with the 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive to new heights in terms of responsiveness, handling precision, high-speed composure and overall engagement for the driver.

Inside the Opulent Interior Details

Climb inside the cabin of the new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive, and you are surrounded by an oasis of refined materials, textures, and comfort:

Unique ALPINA Body-Hugging Seats

Subtly enhanced ALPINA sport seats wrap occupants in supple Lavalina leather and Alcantara microsuede accents. The seats cosset during hard cornering but remain comfortable on long journeys.

 

• • 20-way power adjustable comfort

• • Heated, cooled and massaging functions

• • Thigh extenders in rear

Leather & Alcantara Appointments

Lavalina leather and Alcantara adorn the sport steering wheel, shifter, door pull handles and armrests. Blue contrast stitching and signature ALPINA piping provide unique flair throughout.

Myriad Interior Trims

Silvercast birch wood, aluminum tetragon, red birch, or piano black trims further elevate the interior ambiance while aligned to the ALPINA ethos.

Alcantara Headliner

The Alcantara headliner not only looks fantastic, it aids interior acoustics for a cabin quiet as a recording studio. Open up the panoramic roof and light floods in.

Ambient Lighting

Customizable ambient lighting with 15 color choices sets the mood. The ALPINA signature blue ambient glow provides a soothing nighttime atmosphere.

 

• • Welcome lights illuminate the ground as you approach

ALPINA Production Plaque

A personalized ALPINA interior plaque displays each vehicle’s limited production sequence number cementing the exclusivity and craftsmanship of the 2023 B8 xDrive.

The comprehensive interior enhancements transform an already well-appointed BMW cabin into a bespoke luxury retreat for those lucky few who secure one of the limited-production 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive vehicles.

Overview of Standard and Available Features

The new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive coupe and gran coupe come generously equipped straight from the factory. Some highlights of the standard and available features include:

B8 Coupe Standard Features

 

• • 630 HP 4.4L twin-turbo BMW V8

• • 8-Speed automatic transmission with ALPINA tuning

• • Specially calibrated all-wheel drive

• • 20” ALPINA forged wheels

• • Iconic ALPINA exterior styling treatments

• • Multi-adjustable sport suspension with adaptive dampers

• • Front and rear heated seats

• • Leather upholstery with Alcantara accents

• • Ambient interior lighting

• • Glass controls and interior trim

• • Iconic ALPINA gauges and iDrive display theme

• • 16-Speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround audio

• • Active Driving Assistant Professional

• • Parking Assistant Professional

• • Wireless phone charging and WiFi hotspot

Popular Options

 

• • Full leather seats

• • Panoramic sky lounge LED roof

• • Rear seat entertainment screens

• • Heated steering wheel

• • Night vision with pedestrian detection

• • Upgraded 21” wheel option

• • Carbon ceramic brakes

• • Iconic ALPINA pinstripe exterior detail

• • Crystal controls and shifter

The standard features list is generous for the level of luxury, performance and technology included. With just a few option boxes checked, you can outfit the 2023 BMW ALPINA to your perfect specification.

How the New BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive Compares to Past BMW Flagships

The latest 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive represents a new pinnacle for the storied BMW 8 Series lineage in multiple ways:

More Power than BMW M8 Competition

With 630 hp, the new B8 outmuscles even the performance-tuned BMW M8 Competition by 67 horsepower. The extra grunt improves acceleration and high-speed passing power noticeably.

Faster than Previous BMW ALPINA B7

The turbocharged V8 in the new B8 drives all four wheels and boasts more torque than the prior B7 delivering much quicker acceleration. This is the quickest Alpina model ever.

New Dimension in 8 Series Luxury

Already gorgeous, the latest 8 Series receives further interior refinement like the Alpina leather sport seats and microsuede accents taking luxury to a new level.

More High-Tech Than Past Generations

From the configurable ambient lighting to the Panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof, the tech in the new B8 outpaces past 8 Series and Alpina BMWs by a wide margin.

More Exclusive Than Ever

With production limited to just 250 yearly units for North America, the new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive immediately becomes one of the rarest and most exclusive BMWs available.

In the 60+ year joint history of BMW and ALPINA, the new 2023 B8 xDrive represents a fresh landmark showcasing the pinnacle of their combined engineering capabilities in this flagship grand touring machine.

Breakdown of 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive Pricing and Trim Levels

The new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive commands a premium consistent with its bespoke engineering and limited exclusivity. Here is a breakdown of MSRP pricing:

BMW ALPINA B8 Coupe

 

• • B8 Coupe starting MSRP: $139,900

• • Popular options add: $5,000 – $12,000

• • As-configured average price: $145,000 – $155,000

BMW ALPINA B8 Gran Coupe

 

• • B8 Gran Coupe starting MSRP: $142,900

• • Popular options add: $5,000 – $12,000

• • As-configured average price: $150,000 – $160,000

Being handcrafted in limited numbers, the new 2023 BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive represents an exclusive proposition securing you access to one of the finest high-performance luxury machines available.