2025 BMW Alpina XB7 Review: A Sophisticated SUV for Adults

      Subscribe to The Drive’s daily newsletter

      The top BMWs on the market today aren’t merely BMWs. They typically feature a unique badge that distinguishes them as special. They include CSes, CSLs, “Handschalters,” and—whisper it—Toyota Supras. For those who care about speed but also want a touch of elegance, the brand to keep in mind is Alpina.

      The 2025 BMW Alpina XB7 is undoubtedly one of the coolest, most fascinating, and simply best vehicles the company produces.

      The Essentials

      While the standard BMW X7 may appear somewhat plain, the Alpina variant, flaunting striking wheels, a dark green exterior, quad exhausts, and ALPINA lettering on its front, truly garners attention. It’s a stunning vehicle in its own right, but part of its appeal stems from the fact that the XB7 (and any Alpina, for that matter) is a car you don’t encounter often, even if you reside near a Versace boutique. It’s less prevalent in conversation than any Bentley or Brabus, and in the niche realm of ultra-luxury cars, that’s likely a positive aspect.

      Think of that middle school kid who always discovered bands you’d never even heard of and was consequently considered cooler than you. Arrive at a dinner gathering in an Alpina, and you’ll forever embody that kid.

      Don’t confuse the XB7’s rarity with a lack of quality; the interior is exquisite, showcasing premium materials at every turn. Luxurious tan leather meets deep, dark woods, separated by sleek brushed metals, highlighted by elegant crystal and Alpina-themed displays.

      The 1,500-watt, 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system is impressive, and even the touchscreen-heavy iDrive infotainment system isn’t too bothersome. A high-end rotary knob allows you to easily navigate the screen while on the move, and the sheer quality of the visuals enhances the experience.

      The XB7 is also practical. The front seats are lavishly comfortable, featuring heating, ventilation, and massage options, while the second-row captain's chairs offer spaciousness, power adjustments, and power sunshades. The third row is surprisingly roomy, allowing me to sit “behind myself” comfortably at five foot eight. Luxury is evident here too, with three-stage heated seats and a mini-moonroof (in addition to the large panoramic roof at the front) that enhances the overall lightness and airiness of the space.

      While the back isn’t equipped with the opulent lounge chairs of models like the Bentayga EWB or even the 7 Series sedan, it isn’t designed for a chauffeur; you'll want to drive it yourself.

      Driving the BMW Alpina XB7

      Alpina has tuned BMW’s 4.4-liter twin-turbo S68 V8 to produce 630 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque—107 hp and 37 lb-ft more than the X7 M60i. The XB7 accelerates from zero to 60 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds, completes the quarter mile in 12.4 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 180 mph. Impressive figures for a full-size SUV that accommodates up to seven, but driving it reveals that the XB7’s performance is designed more for quality than sheer power.

      The powertrain feels robust but is not built for drag racing; rather, it is designed for graceful highway cruises with effortless power and sophistication. The V8 has a powerful, almost exotic growl—it resonates almost like a Lime Rock E92 M3 and feels alive, even during casual city driving. However, it’s never excessively loud, unlike some other high-performance luxury SUVs, nor does it make annoying noises during shifts. Alpina maintains a refined demeanor.

      The transmission shifts from the eight-speed automatic are among the smoothest I’ve experienced—if you’re hard of hearing, you might mistake the XB7 for an electric vehicle.

      The tuning prioritizes practical on-road dominance, ensuring acceleration is smooth without being harsh, even in Sport Plus mode. Once at speed, the XB7 glides on the highway with the solid feel of an airplane (think Airbus, not Boeing). Minimal road and wind noise combine with a low V8 hum and adaptive air suspension, creating a sensation of soaring above the ocean at 30,000 feet—in business class, naturally.

      Being a BMW, it handles nicely through corners too. The brakes are strong with an apt pedal feel, and the steering is crisp, light, and accurate, but not overly so. It’s impressively agile for a vehicle of this size while still providing a sense of luxurious weight and a pleasurable truck-like presence, reminding you that you’re in a true BMW.

      The XB7 is one of the most charming vehicles I’ve had the pleasure of driving. Its appeal lies not only in what it offers but also in what it