[FrozenB7]

Originally Posted by OtisX7

All this. Sure, I wouldn't complain about more HP and more exclusive, but at that upcharge? Eesh. I'm starting to think Lambo at that point.

Urus/ Bentayga are much smaller than the XB7. Escalade/ Denali are bigger in dimensions and feel. What is out there for someone wanting ample space + performance + unibody + high luxury?

Right now there is GLS63 and XB7. I'm betting the segment will grow in the years to come. I hear a larger Bentley SUV is forthcoming. Jeep will bring the Grand Wagoneer to market.

[FrozenB7]

Originally Posted by Luminor513

Although I can appreciate the very limited production of these Alpina vehicles, I find myself wondering the need over an M50i. Yes it's faster and more powerful (if you can even utilize the additional power on any North American road) but who would drive in an M50i and say, gee I wish it was faster and handled better.

Literally the entire luxury/ performance side of the auto industry depends on those who disagree with what you're saying. Remember when 300hp was a lot of power? Anything beyond that passes necessity and moves squarely into 'because I can' territory.

[ComingInHot]

I was waiting to see this but unfortunately it's just not my cup of tea ...it looks like a spruced up base model in my mind. Realizing now that I really prefer the M50i version styling much better. I have to love something to buy it so back to the M50i for me unless they bring out an M-sport version and allow shadowline...then I'll bite

[LittleJoe]

Waiting for the order banks to open for the XB7 and the US configurator to come online.

[PABrian]

Originally Posted by LittleJoe

Waiting for the order banks to open for the XB7 and the US configurator to come online.

Since they've announced it and the press release came out, I'd imagine the configurator on BMWUSA.com will be online soon. They have a general info page for it now. If you're looking to place an order, I'd definitely talk with your dealer now. They're all probably at least making lists...

[Luminor513]

Originally Posted by FrozenB7

Literally the entire luxury/ performance side of the auto industry depends on those who disagree with what you're saying. Remember when 300hp was a lot of power? Anything beyond that passes necessity and moves squarely into 'because I can' territory.

Respectfully, Alpina XB7 does not fall into the highest luxury segment like Bentayga or a Cullinan, which I completely agree with you, are simply "Because I can" types of cars. Neither is it the super performance end of the spectrum like Urus, Cayenne Turbo, upcoming RSQ8, or even BMW's own X5M/X6M vehicles.

Just like the Alpina B7, BMW has the M760i, which we could debate all the day the differences between those two vehicles.

With these Alpina vehicles, the "Because I can" factor boils down to spending approx 40k over a similar BMW vehicle for ~100hp, body kit, wheels, and some minor interior details. It's not exactly a Bentley/Rolls, and it's not exactly a Lambo SUV. This Alpina XB7, in my opinion, is just not exactly.

[LittleJoe]

Front and rear differences between a M50i and a XB7:

[FrozenB7]

Originally Posted by Luminor513

Respectfully, Alpina XB7 does not fall into the highest luxury segment like Bentayga or a Cullinan, which I completely agree with you, are simply "Because I can" types of cars. Neither is it the super performance end of the spectrum line Urus, Cayenne Turbo, upcoming RSQ8, or even BMW's own X5M/X6M vehicles.

Just like the Alpina B7, BMW has the M760i, which we could debate all the day the differences between those two vehicles.

With these Alpina vehicles, the "Because I can" factor boils down to spending approx 40k over a similar BMW vehicle for ~100hp, body kit, wheels, and some minor interior details. It's not exactly a Bentley/Rolls, and it's not exactly a Lambo SUV. This Alpina XB7, in my opinion, is just not exactly.

What I mean by 'because I can' is going for extra power/ features because they are available, not necessarily because they represent ultra luxury. It isn't a huge $ leap from M50i, so why not?

XB7 is one of the nicer larger SUV's available. Not much else out there yet. I like Alpina because it delivers some performance but still comfortable for family. You don't worry about where you're parking, unwanted attention, etc. It also delivers a small piece of stealth ultra luxury without having to be out with your entire family in a Rolls or Bentley.

Speaking of Alpina, I've driven both the Bentayga and Urus and the B7 is actually much nicer inside than these cars. When you go 'up the food chain' at Lambo or Bentley, different story. Alpina not even close.

[530iDriver]

Originally Posted by FrozenB7

What I mean by 'because I can' is going for extra power/ features because they are available, not necessarily because they represent ultra luxury. It isn't a huge $ leap from M50i, so why not?

XB7 is one of the nicer larger SUV's available. Not much else out there yet. I like Alpina because it delivers some performance but still comfortable for family. You don't worry about where you're parking, unwanted attention, etc. It also delivers a small piece of stealth ultra luxury without having to be out with your entire family in a Rolls or Bentley.

Speaking of Alpina, I've driven both the Bentayga and Urus and the B7 is actually much nicer inside than these cars. When you go 'up the food chain' at Lambo or Bentley, different story. Alpina not even close.

I absolutely love the B7. One day...

[LittleJoe]

Originally Posted by PABrian

Since they've announced it and the press release came out, I'd imagine the configurator on BMWUSA.com will be online soon. They have a general info page for it now. If you're looking to place an order, I'd definitely talk with your dealer now. They're all probably at least making lists...

Already texted my salesman this morning. He'll reach out when he has pricing and order banks open. I'm interested if I don't have to take a bath on our 2019 X7 50i. The numbers have to work to make the jump to a $150K vehicle. If they do work convincing my wife will be the next strategic battle. I was close to buying a MB GLS63 a few years ago but she didn't care for the seating and engine noise. The XB7 comes with the same seats we enjoy now so that's not a concern. And the new stainless steel exhaust comes with "Active exhaust system flaps" so that hurdle is cleared. Price will be the last big hurdle.

[530iDriver]

Originally Posted by jstein55

I've always been partial to the B6 Gran Coupe, especially in blue or green, such a beautiful car. Would love a B7 but I don't think it would fit in my garage

Agreed. That B6 is gorgeous. Interesting the the 8 Series has not found its B8 equivalent (yet).

[huskerdoc2020]

It's either you like it or you don't. I personally don't care for it. It looks aftermarket to me.

[jettie1767]

I want one! I have a 2018 B7 which I might just have to trade in for the XB7 when I see it in person later this year.

[530iDriver]

Originally Posted by jettie1767

I want one! I have a 2018 B7 which I might just have to trade in for the XB7 when I see it in person later this year.

I wish I could take that B7 from your hands. This XB7 does nothing for me.

[Luminor513]

Originally Posted by LittleJoe

Front and rear differences between a M50i and a XB7:

All subjective, but I much prefer the looks of the M50i. I know Alpina begins life as the standard body style of whatever BMW vehicle they are upgrading, but I prefer the M-sport and M-perf aero/wheels, from BMW. Thanks for sharing these side by side photos.

[530iDriver]

So is this the first ever new Alpina based on a BMW truck built in the United States?

[Bogey4me]

It looks like the individual interior that we have on our X7 40i, which had an msrp of $101k, so had almost everything on it. I have to really look for changes and it's just badging inside. I'm curious how different the Alpina version will drive

[LittleJoe]

Originally Posted by Luminor513

All subjective, but I much prefer the looks of the M50i. I know Alpina begins life as the standard body style of whatever BMW vehicle they are upgrading, but I prefer the M-sport and M-perf aero/wheels, from BMW. Thanks for sharing these side by side photos.

The M50i is a great looking SAV for sure and I may end up with one if the numbers don't work for the XB7. That said, the BMW engineers could learn a few things from the Alpina design team. The changes to the front and rear of the luxury model are subtle but very good looking. The rear especially is the best.

A loaded GLS580 approaches $130,000 which means the AMG 63 version will be at least $150,000. While I understand the looks of the Alpina XB7 isn't for everyone, the pricing is just about what I was expecting, even a bit less.

[SabineBimmer]

Goodness, BMW's brand of hyperbole is nauseating.

[SabineBimmer]

"Expressive presence: each detail of the new BMW ALPINA XB7's design conveys dynamic luxury. The powerful appearance is accentuated by a modern design language, elegant details and precise contours that draw attention to its generous dimensions."

The last part of this, along with 'Generous dimensions' make this sound like a Lane Bryant ad.

It's an obese SUV that also happens to be luxurious.

[530iDriver]

Originally Posted by SabineBimmer

"Expressive presence: each detail of the new BMW ALPINA XB7's design conveys dynamic luxury. The powerful appearance is accentuated by a modern design language, elegant details and precise contours that draw attention to its generous dimensions."

The last part of this, along with 'Generous dimensions' make this sound like a Lane Bryant ad.

It's an obese SUV that also happens to be luxurious.

Interesting that you point that out because Alpina, historically speaking, has always been that other "under the radar" BMWs performance arm purveyor of elegant, sophisticated and smooth luxury sedan built with the most refined performance edge when demanded from it.

Typically, I'd like to think of Alpina as the anti-thesis of ///M cars where loud, ultra fast, ultra high HP and look at me personality are the order of the day.

For me personally, I would pick a B5 sedan over a M5 all things considered. Unfortunately and sadly the B5 sedan and touring are not sold in North America.

Here is a Jeremy Clarkson's "Grand Tour" video comparing both the F90 M5 and G30 based Alpina B5:

[LittleJoe]

What's not to like...