ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe 2016 Model: A Blend of Power, Luxury and Exclusivity
In 2015, BMW unveiled the 2016 model year ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe, a combination of aesthetic allure and powerful performance, imbued with subtle BMW enhancements and ALPINA's continuous development. The vehicle's price, starting at $122,195, underscores its exclusivity as it joins the niche market of limited-capacity production vehicles.
Engineered for Precision and Performance
The 2016 ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe dons an assertive persona with its revised front spoiler, kidney grill, and the new ALPINA hood. Underneath this confident facade lies a 4.4 liter V8 Bi-Turbo engine that churns out a staggering 600 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 590 lb-ft at 3,500 rpm. These improvements result from extensive modifications to the air intake ducting and air filter housing, along with enhancements to the fuel supply system. Together with the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and an ALPINA-developed performance calibration, the new B6 xDrive Gran Coupe delivers a remarkable 0 – 60 mph acceleration time of 3.6 seconds.
A Drive Built for Comfort and Control
Partnering with ZF, ALPINA has custom-tailored an 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission that balances between sporty and comfortable driving dynamics. In Automatic (D) Shift Mode, the Gran Coupe ensures smooth gear changes, while the Sport (S) Shift Mode offers a more dynamic driving experience. The Manual (M) Shift Mode gives the driver full control over the transmission, with ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC buttons conveniently mounted on the steering wheel.
Dynamic All-Wheel Drive System
The ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe employs BMW's xDrive system, which dynamically distributes drive power between the front and rear axle within milliseconds. The performance-oriented programming of the torque distribution control system, interconnected with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and engine management system, increases driving agility and dynamics, ensuring safety in challenging conditions.
Uniquely Alpina: Design, Exhaust, and Suspension
The Gran Coupe exhibits a robust design, with a more dynamic front spoiler and apron, and a new ALPINA hood with character chines. Its full stainless steel exhaust system with ALPINA trademark elliptical twin tailpipes provides a deep but not intrusive exhaust note, with active exhaust valves for balance between enthusiasm and comfort during long journeys.
Special attention has been paid to the chassis and suspension. The vehicle utilizes advanced electronic suspension technologies, including Dynamic Damper Control (adjustable, adaptive shock absorbers) and Adaptive Drive (Active Roll Stabilization), achieving high levels of comfort, dynamic agility, and safe, neutral handling at high speeds.
A Blend of Luxury and Exclusive Features
The 2016 ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe flaunts a luxurious interior with high-quality materials. It features Nappa leather, a leather instrument panel, electric comfort seats, and the BMW Navigation system with BMW ConnectedDrive services as standard. The interior also includes exclusive ALPINA features, such as blue ALPINA instrumentation, a hand-stitched LAVALINA leather-covered steering wheel, blue illuminated door sill trims, and classic ALPINA luxury wood trim.
Assessing the Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe
While the ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe delivers impressive performance, style, and luxury, it comes with a hefty price tag, which may be a significant barrier for many enthusiasts. The vehicle's exclusivity, denoted by its limited-capacity production, further adds to its appeal for some, but also limits its accessibility. Overall, the Gran Coupe is a testament to BMW and ALPINA's relentless pursuit of precision and perfection, delivering a driving experience that blends power, control, and luxury. Its potential downsides, notably the price and limited availability, may not be drawbacks at all for those seeking the unique combination of performance and exclusivity that this vehicle delivers.
-Ed
2016 ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe LCI
