Alpina, which recently became a wholly-owned subsidiary of BMW, has just revealed the new B4 Gran Coupe, a fettled version of the regular 4 Series Gran Coupe and a theoretical equivalent to the M4 Gran Coupe BMW will never build. We previously caught a glimpse of the newcomer undergoing winter testing, but now it's ready to tackle public roads and hunt down the competition.
The 3.0-liter inline-six now produces a potent 488 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque, allowing the tuned Bimmer to hit 62 mph in 3.7 seconds before topping out at 187 mph. A specially adapted eight-speed ZF automatic transmission sends the power to all four wheels. To put that into perspective, the B4 Gran Coupe is quicker than all M4 models, with the exception of the Competition xDrive.
The muscular performance comes courtesy of Alpina-specific flow-optimized turbine housings and a larger intercooler intake, along with a revised air intake duct. Even the cooling system has seen extensive updates, with Alpina fitting a high-performance cooling system comprised of a powerful main cooling package, among other things.
But this is an Alpina, not an M car, which means comfort is an equally important part of the equation. To that end, the German tuner has fitted upgraded bushings and mounts, along with unique dome-bulkhead reinforcement struts. Stopping power is provided by stupendously big brake discs, measuring 15.6 inches at the front with four-piston calipers and 13.6 inches at the rear.
Those planning on really exploring the dynamic capabilities of the B4 will be pleased to know a high-performance braking system, replete with drilled composite brake discs, is available at extra cost.
The capable brakes live behind a signature Alpina design feature, the 20-spoke wheels. Available in black or anthracite, the 20-inch items weigh just 26,4 lbs, which is remarkable. This, says Alpina, helps achieve a sumptuous ride quality despite the low profile 255/35 front and 285/30 rear tires.
Apart from the divisive radiator grille, the Alpina B4 Gran Coupe is an aesthetic masterpiece. The cosmetic enhancements lend the perfect amount of sporting presence without appearing vulgar or flashy. Then again, this has always been Alpina's way of doing things.
The subtle front and rear-mounted spoiler work well with the restrained rear diffuser, which is flanked by the four oval tailpipes of the sports exhaust. Naturally, the brand's signature metallic blue and green shades are available, although buyers can also opt from BMW's wide selection of paint finishes.
The interior of the standard 4 Series was already a lovely place to spend time, but Alpina has heightened the experience with bespoke Lavalina leather upholstery, a naturally tanned hide that the brand describes as being "in a class of its own." Alpina's in-house leather specialists can fulfill any wish a customer can throw at them, no matter how absurd.
As you'd expect from a car costing €91,800 (approx. $102,000) before options, the B4 is well-specified. Amenities such as seat and steering wheel heating ships standard, along with a full suite of BMW assistance systems, including Speed Limit Assist, Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane Change. To set the special vehicle apart from lesser BMWs, the Alpina B4 receives a special Alpina production plaque.
Perhaps not as graceful as the larger (and considerably more expensive) B8 Gran Coupe, the B4 is an intriguing package in its own right. Yes, it's notably more expensive than a fully-loaded M4 Competition xDrive Coupe, and, yes, perhaps it won't be as engaging as the precision M car. But the Alpina targets a totally different customer.
Discerning BMW aficionados will appreciate the exclusivity, air of quality, and extra comfort afforded by the B4 Gran Coupe. It's not intended to be an outright, fire-breathing performance car. It's rapid; there's no doubt about that - but in the case of the B4, it's a comfortable and quick way of crossing continents in style.
Whether it arrives stateside is still to be confirmed, and exact spec and pricing for the US market will be confirmed at a later date.