Testing shots show Buchloe will use latest BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe as basis for next car.
Alpina will expand its portfolio of uprated BMW models with a new-generation B4, but while the previous car was based on the two-door 4 Series Coupe, it seems its successor will take the new 4 Series Gran Coupe as its basis.
New spy shots show an obviously uprated 4 Series Gran Coupe being tested on public roads, lending credence to earlier claims that Buchloe’s next unveiling will be a four-door proposition, rather than based on the two-door 4 Series coupe. The tip came from an unidentified source on the popular Bimmerpost forum who claimed to have access to future product plans “compiled from various leaks within the BMW organization”.
According to the dates outlined, the new Alpina B4 will be introduced in March 2022, as BMW ushers in a new four-wheel-drive 430ix variant of the G26-generation 4 Series Gran Coupé. It remains possible that a two-door version could follow shortly after.
Given the technical similarities between the previous-generation B4 and the 3 Series-based B3, we already have a good idea of the new four-door version’s make-up.
The B4 will no doubt share the latest B3’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol straight six, sending 345kW and 700Nm to both axles through an eight-speed automatic gearbox tuned for quick shifts and improved response. A diesel version, badged D4, will likely follow soon after.
Performance figures will be broadly comparable, too, given the Gran Coupe and 3 Series are closely matched in size and weight, so expect a sub-4.0sec 0-100kph time and a top speed approaching 306kW. The B4 will, as did the previous generation, essentially fill the gap between BMW’s own M440i xDrive and the full-fat M4.
It will bring its own dynamic character, too, courtesy of a predominantly comfort-focused suspension tune and adaptive dampers aimed at enhancing turn-in response. The four-wheel drive system and limited-slip differential will also be fettled to cope with the added grunt.
As is traditional for Alpina, the B4 will be marked out from its standard BMW counterpart by way of a subtle bodykit with Alpina badging, unique colour schemes and the choice of the tuner’s distinctive 20-spoke alloy wheels.
With a March 2022 launch on the cards, we would expect the wraps to come off the new arrival some time before the end of 2021.
Felix Page