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2023 BMW Alpina XB7 is a 630hp SUV That You Don’t Need, But Still Want
While supercars and sedans are downsizing to escape the wrath of environmentalists, SUVs have somehow slipped under the radar. In recent years, we’ve seen a bevy of enormously powerful leviathans launched seemingly every other day and judging by BMW‘s latest announcement, it’s not likely to top. The iconic automaker has just debuted a 630hp BMW luxury SUV with a face that makes traditional BMW fans go into a frenzy. However, the updated X7’s squinty headlamps somehow look better when combined with the Alpina styling package. Go figure.
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2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
Alpina, as you know, is revered for tastefully modifying BMWs, with the label’s work on the new X7 delivering results far better than we initially expected. The XB7 gets a new front bumper along with an illuminated grille while air intakes are considerably larger now. The rear gets a new bumper design also, along with four tailpipes emitting a deeper V8 soundtrack. Speaking of which, the Alpina XB7 has a stonking great 4.4-litre V8 which makes a supercar bothering 630 hp and a locomotive- like 590 lb-ft of torque. As a result, this Alpina-fettled luxury SUV will go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 180 mph.
The V8 gets an Alpina-specific engine management system and performance cooling system while an 8-Speed Sport automatic transmission handles the gearbox duties. Other important technical highlights include a tuned all-wheel-drive system with an electronic limited-slip differential along with 48-volt hybrid assistance to boost engine responsiveness along with efficiency.
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
It isn’t just about the engine as Alpina has tweaked the suspension with different dampers for an optimum balance between ride quality and outright handling. We’re not sure whether owners will ever hurl the XB7 into corners like it’s a lightweight sports car, but Alpina has tightened up the body control a lot. Rear-wheel steering with massive brakes along with classic 20-spoke Alpina-styled 23-inch wheels round off the rest of the upgrades.
The interior sets itself apart from even the top-tier X7 with a glass iDrive controller along with Alpina-specific bits (including a bespoke wood trim) and badging all around – just in case you need a reminder that this isn’t your garden variety X7. The 2023 XB7 is currently available for LHD markets with a price tag of USD$184,685. Amongst a plethora of fast 5-seater SUVs, the Alpina XB7 continues to offer a more intriguing alternative with its edgy styling and exclusivity.
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
2023 BMW Alpina XB7 | Image: BMW Group
Somnath Chatterjee
Somnath Chatterjee is an experience car journalist and automotive expert. His supercar reviews, interviews and industry features have appeared in global publications such as Upscale living, Robb Report and Yahoo Lifestyle Asia. Somnath specialises in luxury and lifestyle-oriented features with a focus on automobiles, aviation and luxury. He also holds a Post Graduate in International Business from the University of Dehli.
