Alpina, a German automobile manufacturer known for its luxurious interiors and bespoke craftsmanship, will produce less than 6000 cars before BMW takes over in 2026. The future of Alpina after the transition remains uncertain, as it is unclear whether the mechanical excellence for which the company is renowned will continue to be prioritized over profits.

Out of the limited production run, only a small number will be the B5 super-saloon model. Based on the outgoing M550i, the B5 is a performance-focused car that embodies Alpina’s philosophy of being incredibly fast yet understated. It is a flagship model for the brand.

The current model of the B5 is a perfect blend of a supercar’s speed and a limousine’s comfort. While it may not handle like BMW’s M5, it offers excellent body control, adjustability, and precise steering. This makes it an exceptional choice for all types of driving.

Now, Alpina introduces the B5 GT, which builds upon the strengths of the regular B5 while adding some extra features. This special model serves as a final tribute to Alpina’s involvement with the G30 5 Series and the culmination of six decades of building cars based on BMW platforms.

Only 250 units of the B5 GT will be produced, primarily in Touring estate form, and all of them have already been sold. Deliveries are scheduled to start later this year, but customers who have selected the full Lavalina leather interior may have to wait until the end of 2024, as Alpina’s meticulous craftsmanship takes time.

Mechanically, the B5 GT is mostly similar to the previous B5, which is no longer available. However, it features a new intake and some electronic enhancements that increase the power output of the twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine from 612bhp to 625bhp. This makes it the most powerful car in Alpina’s history, with an official top speed of 205mph, although unofficially it can reach 220mph.

But what truly sets this car apart is its astonishing mid-range performance, especially in real-world driving situations. The torque output is exceptional, with the B5 GT producing 13% more torque than the M5 CS. With 627lb ft available from 3500rpm, it rivals the power of Aston Martin’s recent DBS 770 Ultimate.