New 2022 Alpina XB7 gets hybrid tech in mid-life refresh
Alpina’s flagship XB7 SUV has been revised inside and out in line with the new BMW X7 facelift
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Following on from the facelifted BMW X7 revealed earlier this week, here’s the updated Alpina XB7. Based on the X7, the XB7 receives the same upgrades found on the BMW-badge model, including a new engine, driver assistance tech and a new exterior design.
A new mild-hybrid twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 sits under the bonnet, but despite the addition of hybridisation, power remains the same at 613bhp and 800Nm of torque. Utilising a mild-hybrid setup should improve the XB7’s efficiency and the seven-seat SUV will offer a WLTP-rated 19.6mpg on the combined cycle.
The powertrain changes also mean the XB7 weighs 2,730kg, up from 2,600kg of the pre-facelift version. Despite this, performance figures are identical with the XB7 accelerating from 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds and having a top speed of 180mph. Power is sent through an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.
Like the X7, the new split headlight design is a prominent feature of the XB7. The large kidney grilles remain unchanged, but there is Alpina lettering on the bottom grille - like all other Alpinas. Also in keeping with Alpina’s design are the side decals and some ‘Alpina Dynamic’ 21-inch wheels make an appearance, too.
BMW’s new curved infotainment system features inside on a 12.3-inch driver’s display screen seamlessly joining the 14.9-inch central touchscreen. The XB7 uses BMW’s new iDrive 8 software but to mark it out from BMW models it receives Alpina’s blue and green colour scheme.
Alpina has also tweaked the ride. The XB7 gets air-suspension but with ‘Alpina specific’ damper and kinematic set-up.
BMW recently acquired the trademark rights to Alpina in March and the XB7 is the second car to be revealed after the announcement - following the new B4 Gran Coupe. Pricing for the XB7 hasn’t been revealed for the UK market yet, but expect it to cost over £140,000 when it goes on sale later this year.
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