BMW Vision Alpina: Yes Please!

First of all, let's position Alpina. With the acquisition of the name, BMW made clear they would position this fourth brand (Mini, BMW, Rolls-Royce and now Alpina) between BMW and Rolls-Royce. Just like a lot of competitors, the Bavarians are trying to capture the biggest possible slice of the wealthy cake. Mercedes uses Maybach to this end and Toyota has just put Century separate as a brand above Lexus. The target is clear, this is not just a mere premium product for the not-so-bad-off, Alpina will set you apart as someone looking for understated timeless looks and superior ride comfort without sacrificing performance. The kind of person for whom a BMW M is just too showy but who is not ready to be driven either.

With the Vision Alpina that was presented last week, I personally believe BMW have hit this one out of the park. This car screams James Bond gentlemen driver DNA. The shark nosed two-door succeeds in being both aggressive and elegant. And don't let the coupe lines fool you, with 5.2 meters this is a huge car. It should provide enough space for four adults on that weekend get-away. From a drive train perspective they have kept things super traditional for a sleek GT, a nice beefy V8 will power you forward with the sounds that only it can produce.

Will we ever be able to really experience this car? Sadly, the answer is probably not. BMW has confirmed that the first production Alpina under the new setup will follow next year, but will be based on the 7-series. Here's to hoping they get as close as possible to the Vision they have just presented!!