2011 Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo news, pictures, and information

Adapted and tested in cooperation wîth ZF, the advanced SWITCH-TRONIC 8-speed sport automatic transmission sets a new benchmark. With ALPINA's philosophy the guiding credo, our engineers have spent thousands of development and test hours ensuring that no other performance automatic transmission comes close to providing this level of both comfort and sportiness. The blend of eight speeds and plenty of torque makes for unparalleled comfortable gear changes wîth no noticeable interruption to the delivery of power – only the accompanying acoustics and the dynamic rev counter provide feedback as to the workings of the transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) The 700Nm of torque means the B5 Bi-Turbo excels at gliding along at low speeds in a high gear wîth minimum revs, benefiting both consumption and comfort. In Sport mode a completely different character emerges: the transmission is crisp and unmistakably immediate. The innovative single-cylinder step-down (EZA), specially developed by ALPINA for the B5 Bi-Turbo allows for super quick up-shifts in just milliseconds, in spite of the high torque.

Depending on the load onthe transmission, the injection of fuel into a given cylinder is interrupted for a fraction of a second, creating the required reduction in torque that the automatic transmission needs for the up-shift. The advantage versus the typical timing retardation are noticeably quicker shifts, and improved thermo-dynamic efficiency due to reduced exhaust temperatures as well as lower fuel consumption. The single-cylinder step-down (EZA) is accompanied by a tone nothing short of spectacular, as each shift harbours a deeply sonorous back-pressure burble.

The Manual mode gives the driver full control over every shift. The SWITCH-TRONIC buttons are ergonomically and aesthetically positioned on the back side of the §teering wheel, and can be used by the driver in whatever manner he or she wishes, based on traffic and the roadway at hand. The system also allows for multi-simultaneous down-shifts in fractions of a second, hereby the transmission will skip several gears depending on accelerator loads and revs. In this manner the 8-speed sport automatic transmission wîth ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC reveals itself to be multi-faceted and able to provide the proper shift characteristic for any and all situations.

The intelligent coupling of state-of-the-art engine and transmission technologies give the B5 Bi-Turbo strong performance figures: just 4.7 seconds to 62mph (100km/h) are needed, on the way up to a top speed of 191mph (307km/h). Even if the driver is seldom in such a rush: massive braking capability in the form of ventilated high-performance brakes (front: 374mm/14.7in; rear 370mm/14.6in)
ensures braking on par wîth pure-bred sports cars.

SÚSPENSION – Excitingly Sporty, Relaxingly Comfortable

The times when 'properly stiff' suspensions were seen as a positive handling characteristic are long gone. It remains a fact that a truly neutral set-up, even at the limit, provides the best technical compromise. This is achieved in part through shorter yet very progressive springs and special suspension arms, which in
combination results in more camber on the front track. Together wîth 20' wheels and tyres, ALPINA have achieved a very balanced and direct chassis set-up, discarding a pure sport-orientated approach for an agile suspension wîth precise turn-in. The new light-weight 20' ALPINA CLASSIC are shod wîth the most advanced high performance tyre technology available today.

Making their debut on the B5 Bi-Turbo, the new MICHELIN PILOT SÚPER SPORT tyres, which measure 255/35ZR20 at the front and 285/30ZR20 at the rear, provide highest levels of high-speed stability. In addition to improved all-round capabilities, these non run-flat tyres provide greater traction on wet roads, offer improved hydro-planing behaviour and excellent rolling comfort.

To fulfil the highest demands in terms of comfort, everyday usability and razor-sharp handling when called for, the B5 Bi-Turbo is equipped wîth electronically adjustable suspension (Variable Damper Control). Úsing the control switch mounted to the left of the shift lever, the driver can select between Normal, Comfort, Sport and Sport+. This system has been artfully calibrated by ALPINA, and is tied into other system parameters controlling §teering assistance, torque cushioning and DSC. The B5 Bi-Turbo transitions effortlessly from cultivated luxury to thorough-bred sportiness. Light §teering, ultra-comfortable suspension and an imperceptibly shifting transmission B5 Bi-Turbo the ideal partner in stop-and-go traffic, when covering great distances or when encountering less than perfect road surfaces. Yet at the touch of a button, the B5 Bi-Turbo will track through tricky corners and exciting sections of road wîth an agility and light-footedness like no other in its class.

When the 8-speed sport automatic's manual mode is combined wîth the selection of the Sport or Sport+ modes, the driver benefits from a new feature: no mandatory up-shifts. When truly pressing on through twisty sections of road or around hairpins, skilled drivers can remain in their selected gear and not be interrupted by an up-shift. The optionally available Dynamic Drive reduces body roll in corners, awarding the B5 Bi-Turbo even more agility. When placed in Sport+ mode by the driver, the B5 Bi-Turbo's dynamic control systems offer a heightened form of DSC called Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), which allows noticeably more slip at the rear wheels and delays the point at which the traction control systems take over.

DESIGN & INTERIOR – Classic Craftsmanship Meets Modern Technology

The new B5 Bi-Turbo presents typical ALPINA virtues and design cues in a new and convincing fashion, wîth a refreshing and dynamic appearance. The self-assured and powerful front commands attention wîth its decidedly sport-orientated lines and striking air. The rear is especially harmonious, clearly communicating the B5 Bi-Turbo's ALPINA family heritage. The ALPINA exhaust's two double-ended-pipes are artfully integrated into the rear valance, a discreet rear diffuser completing the silhouette. The diffuser can be deleted as needed, should the customer desire the optional ability to tow a trailer. In combination wîth the rear spoiler, the B5 Bi-Turbo's total aerodynamic package yields the highest levels of safety and stability, especially at high speeds. The resulting reduction in lift, speed-dependent, can reach a remarkable - 60% front and - 30% rear.

The interior reveals the expected discreet touches that suggest the B5 Bi-Turbo's exclusive pedigree. The standard equipment level is comprehensive: leather interior, versatile and adjustable Comfort seats, an excellent navigation system wîth Bluetooth preparation, and Xenon headlamps all ensure the driver's and
passengers' well-being. The hand-stitched LAVALINA leather SWITCH-TRONIC §teering wheel can be positioned exactly as needed to see the blue ALPINA gauges wîth black-panel LCD technology, thanks to the electrically-adjustable §teering column. The classic ALPINA burled Myrtle wood trim provides a warm ambience - found only on the ÚSA's Pacific Coast it is cultivated from dedicated Laurel tree groves grown for just this purpose.

THE BMW ALPINA B5 BITÚRBO – Brilliantly Balanced High Performance

The overall harmony and the accomplished manner wîth which the B5 Bi-Turbo's last fine calibrations were achieved are a common thread, and as always carry that ALPINA flair, our signature. Sovereign performance and opulent torque assure excellent performance, this in conjunction wîth 'best-in-class' fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Neutral turn-in and road-holding, agile handling and a many-faceted, adjustable suspension satisfy the highest demands in terms of comfort and a sporting nature. The interior's warm ambience and modern treatments foster a sense of well-being. For those who would only award themselves that something unique, exclusive volumes and the ALPINA philosophy of hand-craftsmanship offer a nearly endless spectrum of personalisation.