Alpina has been tuning BMWs for a very, very long time now, and one of their latest projects is based on the X7. It’s named the XB7 and, since BMW won’t build an X7 M, this is pretty much the next best thing.
Like every other Alpina car out there, the flagship SUV sports the typical makeover inside and out, with a discreet body kit, stainless steel exhaust system, bespoke branding and the classic 20-spoke alloy wheels. The illuminated door sills, special steering wheel, exclusive upholstery and trim, iDrive controller, gear selector and a few other touches further set it apart from the stock X7.
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However, it is what lies under the hood that makes it truly impressive. The twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 develops 612 HP (621 PS / 457 kW) at 5,500-6,600 rpm and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm, driving all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF that’s been modified by Alpina. The tuner has also tweaked other parts as well, including the xDrive all-wheel drive system, suspension and brakes.
In terms of straight-line performance, you are looking at 4.0 seconds for the zero to 60 mph (0-96 km/h) sprint and a 180 mph (290 km/h) top speed. Moreover, the tuned SUV will run the quarter-mile in as little as 12.6 seconds.
Now, it is faster and more refined than the regular X7, but does it actually justify its $142,295 starting price in the U.S.? You’ll have to watch the following video review to find out.