Best Car Reviews - 2013 BMW Alpina B7 LWB xDrive

Introduction

The 2013 BMW Alpina B7 LWB xDrive is not just another luxury car; it’s a statement of engineering excellence and premier design. Released at a time when luxury and performance were paramount, this model seamlessly blends the two into a sleek package that caters to discerning auto enthusiasts. The target audience is clear: those who crave a chauffeur-driven experience paired with the thrill of a performance car. What makes the Alpina B7 stand out is its impressive blend of power, luxury, and sophisticated technology, all wrapped in the pedigree of BMW engineering.

Design and Exterior Features

The exterior of the Alpina B7 LWB xDrive is nothing short of grandeur, featuring a refined silhouette that embodies elegance and power.

Sculpted Design: With its long wheelbase, the B7 presents an elongated shape that enhances its regal presence.
Signature Alpina Blue: A standout color option that symbolizes Alpina's custom approach.
Chromed Accents: Tasteful chrome touches on the grille and along the sides add a luxurious flair.
Aerodynamic Enhancements: Subtle spoilers and air intakes not only add to its sporty aesthetics but also improve its aerodynamic efficiency.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the BMW Alpina B7, luxury is at its finest, providing an oasis of comfort and control for both driver and passengers.

The cabin is furnished with premium leather upholstery and fine wood trims, exuding an aura of opulence.
Heated and ventilated seats ensure comfort across all seasons.
The spacious interior is accentuated by the panoramic sunroof, offering natural light and an airy feel.
Top-notch sound insulation allows for a quiet, serene ride.
Rear entertainment system included for passenger enjoyment.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood of the BMW Alpina B7 LWB xDrive beats a heart of pure power: a 4.4-liter V8 engine equipped with SID (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) technology, delivering a thrilling performance that BMW is renowned for.

Horsepower: 540 hp, ensuring robust acceleration.
Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, it stands as a testament to its power.
The all-wheel drive system ensures that handling remains precise, whether traversing cityscapes or winding through country roads.
Fuel consumption is carefully balanced at 15.66 l/100 km, a notable achievement for a vehicle of this magnitude.
Adaptable suspensions allow for a smooth drive regardless of the road conditions.

Technology and Connectivity

The Alpina B7 does not shy away from offering cutting-edge technology to enhance the driving experience.

The iDrive infotainment system serves as the backbone for connectivity, easy to operate and intuitive.
Equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and a premium sound system for immersive audio experiences.
Included is a 9.7-inch display offering crisp visibility and ease of use.
Navigation system is advanced, providing real-time traffic updates.
Comprehensive driver assistance technologies ensure a safe ride, including adaptive cruise control and lane departure warnings.

Safety Features

BMW's commitment to safety is evident in the wide array of features included in the Alpina B7:

Adaptive headlights for enhanced visibility at night and in poor weather conditions.
Advanced airbag system that covers all occupants.
Stability control systems to maintain secure driving dynamics.
Crash test ratings bolster its reputation for road safety.
Blind-spot monitoring and rear parking sensors as standard inclusions.

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2013 BMW Alpina B7 LWB xDrive is around $128,495 USD, reflecting its premium nature. When compared to competitors in the luxury segment, it holds its ground with features and performance.

Competitors include brands like Mercedes-Benz’s S-Class and Audi’s A8, which are similarly priced but differ in style and tech offerings.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Impressive performance with powerful acceleration.
Luxurious interior with top-tier materials.
High-tech infotainment system.
Elegant body style with distinctive Alpina features.
Strong safety credentials.

Cons

Fuel efficiency could be better, especially for city driving.
High base price compared to certain competitors.
Some may find user interface complex.
Maintenance costs may be higher given premium parts.
Weight may affect agility in tight driving situations.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Maintaining a luxury vehicle like the B7 comes with its considerations, with an estimated yearly maintenance cost of around $2,000-$3,000.

Common problems:
- Transmission issues can occasionally crop up.
- Electrical system malfunctions have been reported.
- Turbocharger wear over time.
- Brake pad replacements more frequent due to car weight.
- Potential oil leaks from aging seals.

Rating

Overall: 8.5/10

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The driving experience is unmatched, blending luxury and speed."
"Requires frequent maintenance, but worth it for the performance."
"Interior luxury is top-notch, feels like a private jet."
"Tech features are impressive, although user interface could be more intuitive."
"Fuel efficiency is a bit lackluster for city driving, but acceptable for a car this size."

Best Cars in this Category

2013 Mercedes-Benz S550
2013 Audi A8 L
2013 Jaguar XJ
2013 Lexus LS 460
2013 Maserati Quattroporte

Summary

The 2013 BMW Alpina B7 LWB xDrive is ideally suited for those seeking a blend of luxury and performance in a full-size vehicle. It provides unparalleled comfort and high-speed competence, with a price tag that reflects its exceptional engineering. Its value lies in the lavish experience it offers to drivers and passengers alike, echoing BMW's long-standing tradition of excellence. If you're in the market for a vehicle that doesn’t just transport you but indulges every aspect of your journey, the Alpina B7 merits serious consideration.