Best Car Reviews - 2015 BMW Alpina B6 Gran Coupe xDrive

Introduction

The 2015 BMW Alpina B6 Gran Coupe xDrive stands as a remarkable representation of luxury, performance, and precision engineering. Released in a time when BMW sought to redefine driving dynamics in the luxury segment, the Alpina B6 targets discerning automotive enthusiasts who crave both performance and sophistication. This model is distinct due to its all-wheel drive capability and the marriage of Alpina's bespoke enhancements with BMW's engineering prowess.

Design and Exterior Features

The Alpina B6 Gran Coupe boasts a sleek, elegant design with a hint of aggression, alluding to its performance capabilities. Its elongated body and coupe-like silhouette give it a unique stance and profile. Standout features include:

Aerodynamic body kit with Alpina's signature details
Quad exhaust system with a refined roar
20-inch lightweight Alpina Classic wheels
Distinctive Alpina badging and optional Alpina Blue paint

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Alpina B6 offers a cocoon of luxury. The interior is an amalgam of fine materials and cutting-edge technology designed for comfort and elegance.

Plush leather upholstery with contrast stitching options
Multi-contour seats with heating and ventilation functions
Alpina-crafted leather steering wheel
Ambient lighting that enhances cabin aesthetics
High-quality Nappa leather and wood trims

Performance and Handling

Equipped with an 8-cylinder SIDIFuel engine and an automatic (S8) transmission, the Alpina B6 delivers exhilarating performance. The car reaches 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience.

Driving the Alpina B6 in the city provides smooth acceleration and impressive maneuverability. On the highway, its all-wheel drive system ensures stability and traction. Handling through tight turns is precise, reflecting Alpina's tuning expertise.

Fuel efficiency: Approximately 15.7 l/100 km
Horsepower: 540 hp
Adaptive Drive system for customizable driving dynamics
Brembo high-performance braking system
Near 50:50 weight distribution for optimal balance

Technology and Connectivity

The Alpina B6 is loaded with advanced technological features aimed at enhancing connectivity and convenience. The infotainment system is intuitive with several cutting-edge options.

9.7-inch high-resolution display
Harman Kardon surround sound system
Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for seamless device integration
Navigation system with real-time traffic updates
Driver assistance features like head-up display and adaptive cruise control

Safety Features

This luxury coupe does not compromise on safety, offering a suite of both standard and advanced features to ensure peace of mind.

Forward collision warning with automatic braking
Lane departure warning
Multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain
Rear view camera and parking sensors
High crash test ratings from leading safety organizations

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2015 BMW Alpina B6 Gran Coupe xDrive comes in at around $118,000 USD. While this positions it in the higher echelons of luxury vehicles, it competes well against other high-performance models in its class.

Competitors include: Mercedes-AMG CLS63, Audi S7, and Porsche Panamera

Pros and Cons

Pros

Exceptional performance with potent engine dynamics
Luxurious interior with premium materials
Impressive handling and drivetrain
Cutting-edge technology and driver assists
Exclusive Alpina modifications

Cons

High fuel consumption
Premium pricing compared to some competitors
Limited rear headroom due to swooping coupe design
Expensive maintenance
Niche model availability

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs for the Alpina B6 hover around $2,500 - $3,000 USD, reflecting its luxury status. Common issues reported by owners include:

Electronics malfunctions in infotainment systems
Suspension wear leading to frequent adjustments
Tire wear due to high-performance dynamics
Occasional transmission lag in automatic mode
Minor oil leaks from gaskets

Rating

Overall Rating: 8.5/10
- Design: 9/10
- Comfort: 8/10
- Performance: 9.5/10
- Technology: 9/10
- Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

Current owners generally praise the Alpina B6 Gran Coupe for its seamless integration of performance and luxury. Common feedback includes:

"The acceleration is breathtaking, pure driving joy!"
"Luxury inside and out; a real head-turner."
"Could be more fuel-efficient, but worth the thrill."
"Maintenance is on the high side, but reliability has been good."
"Impeccable road presence and exclusivity."

Best Cars in This Category

2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class CLS63 AMG
2015 Audi S7
2015 Porsche Panamera GTS
2015 Jaguar XJ Supercharged
2015 Maserati Quattroporte

Summary

The 2015 BMW Alpina B6 Gran Coupe xDrive is ideally suited for affluent drivers who demand high-performance and do not mind paying a premium for exclusivity and luxury. With its blend of Alpina craftsmanship and BMW engineering, it offers exceptional value for those seeking a unique driving experience in the luxury segment. Its dynamic performance, luxurious interior, and advanced technology position it as a strong contender in its category, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.