Alpina XB7 gains mild-hybrid V8 and styling refresh

Famed BMW tuner Alpina has released pictures and full details of an updated version of the Alpina XB7.
 
Following on from the recently unveiled BMW X7 facelift, the headline news is that in addition to its donor vehicle's brash styling refresh, the full-size Alpina SUV gains a new mild-hybrid engine and an overhauled infotainment system.
 
Under the bonnet, there's a new mild-hybrid twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 that, despite being electrified, produces the same 457kW and 800Nm of torque.
 
Performance remains unchanged, with the fast Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 S rival capable of a 4.2-second 0-100km/h sprint and a 290km/h top speed.
 
Fuel consumption, thanks to its new hybrid tech, is claimed to be 14.4L/100km on the strict WLTP test regime.
 
Sadly, due to the additional hybrid gubbins, weight has increased from an already portly 2655kg to 2730kg.

BMW supplies the hybrid parts that include a mild-hybrid starter-generator and extra electrical architecture.
 
Alpina has also introduced an improved cross-bank exhaust that's said to deliver a "thrilling V8 soundtrack".
 
Up front you've probably already spotted the twin horizontal light headlights. As part of the updates there's also now an illuminated grille that also boasts extra air intakes, and at the rear there's four tailpipes.
 
Within the cabin there's the valuable addition of BMW's latest eight-generation iDrive infotainment system that features an on-board assistant and over-the-air updates and is operated via a large 14.9-inch central touch-screen.
 
To cope with the extra weight, it's thought the Alpina XB7 rides on an overhauled chassis set-up, although the firm's trademark Alpina Dynamic 21-inch wheels remain.
 
In Europe, deliveries of the Alpina XB7 begin in December 2022, but there's no word when the facelifted mild-hybrid V8-powered SUV will land Down Under, nor whether its $264,900 (plus on-roads) price tag will change.