The BMW Alpina B5 Saloon impresses with its blend of luxury and performance, offering a powerful engine and refined ride quality. Owners praise its comfort and practicality, though some note the high running costs and limited rear visibility as drawbacks.
Read full reviewBMW Alpina B5 Saloon (2017 onwards)
2017 – onwards· 5 owner Q&As
Excellent
The BMW Alpina B5 Saloon is a retro icon reborn, blending luxury with electrifying performance. As Auto Express puts it, "The Alpina B5 Saloon combines luxury and performance in a way that few rivals can match."
At a glance
612
hp · Power
365
miles · Range / tank
3.3s
0–60 mph
£
Running costs
From £1583/mo
Typical finance
Motoring.Today. verdict
Best for
- Exceptional performance and handling
- Luxurious interior with high-quality materials
- Advanced technology and driver assistance features
Consider alternatives if
- Higher running costs compared to non-performance saloons
- Limited rear passenger space for taller individuals
- Not as fuel-efficient as some competitors
Finance snapshot
Typical monthly payment
£1583/month
Based on PCP · 48 months · £9,500 deposit
Best suited for
- Company Car Drivers
- Petrol/Diesel Buyers
- High Mileage Drivers
- Families
Affordability
Premium
Above average monthly commitment.
Ratings breakdown
Theo's AI summary
The BMW Alpina B5 Saloon is a remarkable blend of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. It is an ideal choice for those who seek a high-performance saloon that does not compromise on comfort or style. With its impressive engine, refined interior, and advanced features, the B5 Saloon stands out in a competitive market. For buyers looking for a vehicle that embodies both tradition and modernity, the Alpina B5 is highly recommended.
Best match for
- Performance enthusiasts
- Practical families
- Budget-conscious buyers
Estimated ownership costs
Based on 10,000 miles per year
£241/month
£100/month
£50/month
£60/month
Estimated total
£451/month
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Handling is a standout feature of the BMW Alpina B5 Saloon, with its finely tuned suspension system ensuring exceptional agility and responsiveness. The vehicle's low centre of gravity and precise steering contribute to a confident and controlled driving experience, making it a j
External voices
What the experts say
The Alpina B5 Saloon stands out for its elegant design and sporty aesthetics, combining BMW's classic styling with Alpina's unique touches. Critics highlight its understated yet sophisticated appearance, although some feel it lacks the aggressive stance of competitors.
Read full reviewThe Alpina B5 Saloon is generally reliable, with a solid build quality and few reported issues. However, potential buyers should be aware of the high maintenance costs associated with luxury performance vehicles.
Ownership intelligence
The real cost of owning one
Finance options for the BMW Alpina B5 Saloon are flexible, with various leasing and purchasing plans available to suit different budgets. Potential buyers can explore competitive interest rates and tailored packages that make owning this luxury saloon more accessible.
Running Costs for the BMW Alpina B5 Saloon are competitive for a vehicle of its calibre. While it may not be the most economical option in its class, the performance and luxury it offers justify the investment. Regular maintenance and servicing are essential to keep the vehicle in peak condition, and BMW's reputation for reliability adds peace of mind to ownership.
Fuel consumption for the Alpina B5 Saloon is reasonable considering its performance capabilities. The twin-turbo V8 engine provides a balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for both spirited drives and everyday use. For those considering the transition to electric, the retro icon reborn electric models from BMW offer an exciting glimpse into the future of performance vehicles.
Heritage
Milestones & history
2017
Launch of the BMW Alpina B5 Saloon
2020
Introduction of updated technology and features
2023
Announcement of electric variants and future models
Read full launch story
The purpose of the BMW Alpina B5 Saloon is to provide a high-performance luxury saloon that combines the best of both worlds: exhilarating driving dynamics and opulent comfort. It caters to enthusiasts who appreciate fine engineering and sophisticated design. The evolution of the Alpina B5 Saloon reflects BMW's commitment to innovation and performance. From its inception, the B5 has undergone significant enhancements in technology, performance, and design, adapting to changing consumer preferences and environmental considerations, including the recent shift towards electric vehicles.
Compare with alternatives
The BMW Alpina B5 Saloon (2017 onwards) stands out in its class for its blend of performance, luxury, and comfort, competing closely with rivals like the Audi S6, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, and Porsche Panamera.
Audi S6 Saloon
Positioned as a high-performance luxury saloon with a focus on technology and comfort.
- vs features
- The Audi S6 offers a refined driving experience with a plush interior and advanced tech features, but it may lack the raw driving engagement of the Alpina B5.
- vs price
- The S6 is generally priced similarly to the Alpina B5, often slightly less depending on options and trim levels.
Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Saloon
A performance-oriented luxury saloon known for its powerful engines and high-end features.
- vs features
- The E63 AMG excels in performance and offers a luxurious cabin, but it can be more aggressive in driving dynamics compared to the Alpina B5's more balanced approach.
- vs price
- Typically, the E63 AMG is priced higher than the Alpina B5, reflecting its performance capabilities and luxury features.
Porsche Panamera
A luxury sports saloon that combines performance with practicality and high-end features.
- vs features
- The Panamera offers exceptional handling and a sporty feel, but may sacrifice some rear passenger comfort compared to the Alpina B5.
- vs price
- The Panamera is generally more expensive than the Alpina B5, especially when considering performance variants.
Available now
BMW Alpina B5 Saloon (2017 onwards) for sale on Motoring.Today
Gallery
(15)Specs by trim
Bi-Turbo Switch-Tronic auto 4dPetrol Automatic · 2017–2020
- Power
- 599 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 3.4 s
- Top speed
- 202 mph
- Torque
- 800 Nm
- Economy
- 27 mpg
- Range
- 392 mi
- Road tax
- £600
- New price
- £88,025
B5 4.4 Bi Turbo 4dr Switch-Tronic AWD 4dPetrol Automatic · 2020–2023
- Power
- 612 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 3.3 s
- Top speed
- 205 mph
- Torque
- 800 Nm
- Economy
- 24.4 mpg
- Range
- 365 mi
- CO₂
- 263 g/km
- Road tax
- £600
- New price
- £94,895
B5 GT 4.4 Bi Turbo 4dr Switch-Tronic AWDPetrol Automatic · 2023–Now
- Power
- 625 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 3.3 s
- Top speed
- 205 mph
- Torque
- 850 Nm
- Economy
- 24.4 mpg
- Range
- 365 mi
- CO₂
- 263 g/km
- Road tax
- £600
- New price
- £125,640
FAQs
- What makes the BMW Alpina B5 Saloon a luxury saloon?
- The BMW Alpina B5 Saloon combines high-quality materials, advanced technology, and a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine, offering an exceptional driving experience that epitomises performance and luxury.
- How does the Alpina B5 Saloon perform in terms of safety?
- The Alpina B5 Saloon boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike, making it a reliable choice for families.
- What are the running costs associated with the Alpina B5 Saloon?
- While the Alpina B5 Saloon is a luxury vehicle, its running costs are reasonable for its class, with decent fuel economy, though higher insurance premiums should be expected.
- Is the BMW Alpina B5 Saloon suitable for families?
- The Alpina B5 Saloon offers limited rear-seat space compared to larger SUVs, making it less practical for families, but it excels in luxury and performance.
- What is the significance of the Alpina B5 Saloon's design?
- The Alpina B5 Saloon is a retro icon reborn, featuring distinctive styling that reflects BMW's commitment to automotive excellence while appealing to enthusiasts and everyday drivers.














