Alpina has kept the questionable front end from the revised BMW X7 but injected its XB7 with more power and some cosmetic changes in the rear.
In April, BMW showed us the upgraded X7 — it isn’t an entirely new model, but it came with many new features, specifically the controversial split headlights. Soon Alpina’s 2023 XB7 inherited the same face, too, while employing some surprising updates, including a powertrain boost.
Under the bonnet sits BMW’s S68 twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, accompanied by a small 48V starter-generator that will assist the engine in reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Alpina’s tune takes the engine to 630 hp power and 590 lb-ft of torque —18 hp more than the previous model, despite both variants sharing the same engine.
Alpina also retained the same 8-speed automatic from ZF, which provides smooth and fast shifts. Meanwhile, the xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes torque via an electronically-variable limited-slip differential on the rear axle for maximum traction.
As a result of the enhanced mechanics, the 2023 XB7 can hit 0-60 mph a bit faster than its predecessor in just 3.9 seconds. But in true Alpina fashion, the XB7 can also reach 180 mph (290 km/h), making it one of the fastest three-row SUVs on sale.
Although Alpina builds its cars to be fast, the tuner also gives great importance to luxury. Hence, the XB7 features an air suspension with Alpina-specific dampers, designed to balance road comfort with driving dynamics.
The XB7 is also quite the looker on the outside, despite the somewhat dubious front end. Alpina’s 21-inch 20-spoke Anthracite wheels alone give the SUV a more sophisticated look, but the tuner went even further and utilized redesigned exhaust pipes and redesigned front and rear aprons for a more impressive road presence.
The interior continues with the sophisticated and posh theme, with generous use of quality hand-finished leather and immaculate attention to detail. Customers can even specify their leather piping, stitching, embroidery, and embossing to add a more personalized touch. Moreover, the XB7 now features BMW’s latest iDrive 8 system that features a large Curved Display housing both the instrument cluster and the infotainment.
If you are keen on owning a 2023 Alpina XB7, you can get one at $145,995 plus a $995 destination fee. Alpina has already started accepting orders and will deliver the first vehicles by January 2023.
Gallery: 2023 Alpina XB7
Learn more at Alpina’s website
