2011 Alpina B7 confirmed for US launch with 500hp V8
Alpina’s 2011 B7, based on the BMW 7 Series and featuring a 500hp twin-turbo V8, will reach US showrooms in spring 2010 in both standard and long-wheelbase forms.
The 2011 Alpina B7 will be available at authorised BMW dealers across the United States from spring 2010, marking Alpina’s second official US introduction but its first based on the F01/F02 7 Series platform. The car will make its North American debut at the Chicago Auto Show in February 2010.
Performance and technical details
Alpina’s B7 uses a version of BMW’s 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8, enhanced to deliver 500hp (373kW) and 516lb-ft (700Nm) of torque. This gives the B7 a claimed 0-60mph time of 4.5 seconds, placing it among the fastest saloons in its segment at launch. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission with Alpina’s SWITCH-TRONIC manual shift control.
Alpina has also upgraded the suspension, building on the 7 Series’ adaptive chassis technologies. The B7 features Dynamic Damping Control and Active Roll Stabilization, with driver-selectable Comfort, Normal and Sport modes. The steering, throttle and damping algorithms are recalibrated for sharper response. Lightweight 21-inch Alpina Classic alloy wheels are fitted, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport tyres sized 245/35 R21 at the front and 285/30 R21 at the rear.
Interior and exterior enhancements
Inside, the B7 receives subtle but distinct Alpina touches. These include blue-illuminated Alpina door sills, a hand-stitched Lavalina leather SWITCH-TRONIC steering wheel, and an Alpina-branded Black-Panel LCD instrument cluster. Standard 7 Series colours are available, alongside Alpina’s signature Blue metallic paint. Both standard and long-wheelbase models will be offered to US buyers.
Pricing and market context
Pricing for the 2011 Alpina B7 was expected to start above $120,000, positioning it well above the standard 750i but below the Rolls-Royce Ghost. The B7’s arrival gave US buyers access to a factory-backed, warranty-supported Alpina model for the first time since the short-lived E65-based Alpina B7 in 2007. Its combination of performance, exclusivity and full BMW support was aimed at buyers seeking an alternative to the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG and Audi S8.
- 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 tuned by Alpina
- 500hp, 516lb-ft torque
- 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds (manufacturer claim)
- Adaptive suspension with Comfort, Normal and Sport modes
- 21-inch Alpina Classic wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport tyres
The B7’s US debut coincided with a period of growing demand for high-performance luxury saloons. Alpina’s approach, blending understated design with substantial mechanical upgrades, positioned the B7 as a unique proposition in the segment. The car’s limited production numbers and Alpina-specific details ensured its exclusivity among American BMW buyers.
For a wider view of luxury saloon pricing at the time, see UK new car prices edge up in May 2011 as sales slip.
