As if the split-headlamp face wasn't already controversial enough, this Alpina XB7 from the model's latest iteration has become even flashier with a few aftermarket touches.
Mind you, the modifications aren't extreme at all, yet we reckon not many Alpina enthusiasts would approve of the color choice. This XB7 has a gray finish on the outside, and too much gold on the kidney grille. The Alpina lettering in the lower part of the front bumper features the same hue, and so do the quad tailpipes at the rear.
Nevertheless, the most questionable modification revolves around the wheels. You see, the Alpina ones are one of the most beautiful proposals for almost any Bimmer, regardless of how old or big it is. Still, this one has traded that gorgeous set for new ones with a turbine shape. Made by AL13, the wheels in question have a two-tone look, mixing the same gold finish with a silver touch.
We don't know why anyone would buy an Alpina and ditch those iconic wheels. We also cannot understand why the owner decided their XB7 needed a flashy color on the grille, tailpipes, and other exterior components and why they went for this model only to slam it when they could have bought a low-slung machine from Alpina instead. After all, we love the B3, B4, and B5, and we think the B8 is one of the best-looking cars in its class.
Photo: Instagram | al13wheels
Since the wheelmaker drew the line after a short caption that doesn't mention the oily bits, this vehicle might retain the stock firepower. The twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 produces 631 hp (640 ps/471 kW) at 5,600-6,500 rpm and 640 pound-foot (868 Nm) of torque at 1,800-5,600 rpm. The motor is paired with an eight-speed DCT and xDrive all-wheel drive. Alpina says the latest iteration XB7 needs just 3.9 seconds to reach 60 mph (97 kph) and returns 18 mpg (13.1 l/100 km) combined.
A brand-new 2025 Alpina XB7 will set you back at least $152,400 in the United States. The lesser M60i version of the 2025 BMW X7 starts at $110,900 before destination and dealer fees. This model also packs a twin-turbo V8, albeit with 523 hp (530 ps/390 kW) at 5,500-6,000 rpm and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) at 1,800-4,600 rpm. Since it is less powerful than the XB7, the X7 M60i accelerates to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The average fuel consumption is identical to the Alpina model.
The X7 family starts with the base xDrive40i in our market, which has an MSRP of $83,500. Instead of a V8, this model uses a 3.0L straight-six that kicks out 375 hp (380 ps/280 kW) at 5,200-6,250 rpm and 398 pound-foot (540 Nm) of torque between 1,850 and 5,000 rpm. The 0-60 mph takes 5.6 seconds, and it returns 22 mpg (10.7 l/100 km).
After a series of unfortunate events put an end to Cristian's dream of entering a custom built & tuned old-school Dacia into a rally competition, he moved on to drive press cars and write for a living. He's worked for several automotive online journals and now he's back at autoevolution after his first tour in the mid-2000s. Full profile
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