Overview:
The Alpina’s raging category defines a well-versed index of performance merged with luxury. Like the rest of the BMW classes, the 4-Series even gets a hand on the Alpina magnum category. Well, here it is known as the B4.
The car was unveiled back in 2013 during the Tokyo Motor Show, built on the parts borrowed from the obsolete 4-Series version. In the very next year, the B4 was launched into the market marking a restoration of the older 4-Series parts.
The B4 has received 5 model lines including the base variant. The D4 comes next in the series, presented as the hardtop convertible. Further, it gets the same powertrain as the standard B4 version. Ahead of that, B4 S takes the mid-level performance seat in the series. While the B4 S Edition 99 takes the highest rank in the whole series. And it is the limited edition variant launched for the Alpina B4.
The BMW Alpina B4 takes a base price of $80,070. While that is for the coupe models. If you go for the hardtop convertible edition you would have to pay at least $85,200 without any amenities. Certainly, after adding the amenities you would have to pay above $100,000. In a way, you can actually without the available options. They are so enchanting that they make you get them. Such as the entertainment features and some safety add-ons that make your journey safer than ever.
Now it’s time to explore the BMW Alpina B4.
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Specifications:
| Engine | Transmission | HP | Torque |
| 3.0 L | 8 – speed automatic | 402 hp | 443 lb – ft |
| 0 – 62 MPH | Top Speed | Body Style | MPG |
| 4.3s | 189 mph | Coupe Convertible | 22 city/ 26 highway |
Performance:
The Alpina borrowed the BMW’s N55 engine that was previously used in the 435i. Well, a nomenclature for the 4-Series got power from an obsolete 4-Series sporty coupe. The N55 is a 6-cylinder inline engine. While for the B4 it has been coupled with a twin-turbocharger.
The engine itself has 302 hp of power with a peak torque of 295 lb-ft. While the twin-turbocharger brings the total power output to 402 hp with 443 lb-ft of torque. Further, this system is mated with the 8-speed dual-clutch ZF8hp automatic transmission. And there is no manual gearing option available for this car.
Well, it is the same gearbox that was once used in the 4-Series. But it has been modified to pin short shift intervals for a faster transmission rate. Ahead of that, the front-wheel-drive is the base configuration available. While in some regions the rear-wheel-drive comes standard. The all-wheel-drive remains optional for every market.
If you put the Alpina B4 into the Comfort mode, you would certainly lose most of its power. And the only thing remaining behind would be some agile handling. Well, you would only prefer doing that when you have kids on board. The Sport mode enables a mid-thresh of power folds with a sweet cut of the stabilizers. While if you switch to the Sport+ mode, the Alpina B4 becomes a beast and you are all on your own.
Just like the drivetrain, the suspension has been borrowed from an existing D3 variant. Well, D3 is the part of the BMW 3-Series based Alpina. The BMW claims that the suspension has been reworked to provide 40% better results. Well, we were unable to calculate the exact ratio of change, but the handling feels poised.
Exterior:
The Alpina B4 wears the similar costume like that of the BMW 4-Series. But there are a few changes that make it an Alpina. Such as the badge, the classic wheel design, and the Alpina’s signature aerodynamic work. Further, the xenon headlamps, LED DRL, LED taillights, 19-inch alloy wheels are the standard cosmetics. While the 20-inch wheels are optionally available.
The coupe take the entry-level position in the series. While the convertibles sit atop with the maxed out price tag. Besides the standard cosmetics, there are plenty of add-ons available for this car, like the color choice, grille material and the exterior finish.
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Interior:
The Alpina B4 is filled with plenty of luxury ingredients. The premium leather seats, wood trim, door sills, and the metal emblem are some basic characteristics. Further, there are plenty of customization options available for this car. You can get a custom stitch on the seats, choose any color for the trim and go for a mixture of various ingredients for the interior.
Well, the B4 offers space for 4 including a driver. You can get up to 5 people in the car. But 4 is a convenient figure. Ahead of that, there is sufficient cargo spacing available. Indeed it would never disappoint you if you want to take in on for a long journey.
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Features:
The B4 includes the Alpina’s standard touchscreen infotainment system. The system comes available with the navigation and some multimedia options such as the CD Player and the DAB tuner. Further, the Apple CarPlay and the real-time traffic alert remains optional. Ahead of that, the Wi-Fi hotspot is also optionally available.
The entertainment column is filled with the BMW audio system package. While the Harman/Kardon audio package remains optional. Further, the internet-based online entertainment is also available for this car.
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Safety:
There is plenty of safety equipment included in this car. While some notable features include the tire pressure monitoring system, rain sensing wipers, parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and the head-up display. The advanced passive safety includes limited slip differential. The lane keeping assist and the speed limit warning system is optionally available for the BMW Alpina B4.
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Competitors:
The BMW Alpina B4 is a good answer to the costly Maserati GranTurismo. The B4 offers more luxury, a commendable compartment, smooth drive and enjoyable environment for grand touring. While the GranTurismo lacks some good component of elegance.
Well, the Alpina B4 is a quite an elegant fella introduced for the BMW 4-Series. And it is indeed one of the replacements you can go for if the 4-Series does not really entice you much.
Sources:
https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/models/d4-biturbo/highlights/
https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/models/b4-s-biturbo/highlights/
https://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/models/d4-biturbo/equipment/
