BMW Alpina Sedan Hits 186 MPH in Testing
The first production model from the revived Alpina sub-brand, based on the 7 Series, is nearing market launch.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Performance Vehicles
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BMW's Alpina sub-brand reached 186 mph (300 km/h) with its first production model during high-speed testing at the Nardò Technical Center in southern Italy. The V8-powered sedan, based on the recently facelifted 7 Series, is expected to launch in 2027.
Why it matters
The test marks a step toward the market debut of BMW's new Alpina sub-brand, which will build its cars at existing BMW production facilities rather than the former independent factory in Buchloe. The result signals that the high-performance sedan segment remains a focus for the German automaker.
The prototype's windshield projection shows 439 kW (about 589 hp) and 784 Nm (about 578 lb-ft), while the car rides on 20-inch alloy wheels. BMW has not confirmed these figures for the production model.
The players
BMW Alpina
Alpina is a historic German performance-tuning brand that BMW has revived as a sub-brand, with a past production history of about 60,000 vehicles.
Nardò Technical Center
The Nardò Technical Center is a vehicle test facility in southern Italy known for its long high-speed circuit used by automakers for performance testing.
The details
The prototype was pushed beyond 186 mph on the 12.6-kilometer Nardò high-speed circuit, with calibration changes to the engine management, accelerator mapping and transmission to handle higher engine speeds. The car also features four oval tailpipes.
Timeline
Test footage was published on November 3, 2026.
The first Alpina production model is expected to launch in 2027.
Roadmap
Alpina's earlier B7 reached 205 mph, a figure that defined the brand's high-performance identity for decades. The revived sub-brand's first sedan is being positioned against rivals such as the Bentley Flying Spur Speed, which tops out at 207 mph (333 km/h).
Buyers interested in a high-performance luxury sedan will have a new option from the Alpina sub-brand once it launches in 2027. Pricing and dealership availability have not yet been announced.
The takeaway
The revival of Alpina under BMW's umbrella suggests the automaker sees continued value in a dedicated high-performance tier above its standard 7 Series. Readers tracking performance sedans should watch for official horsepower and pricing details ahead of the 2027 launch.
Further reading
For more on the segment, explore Performance Vehicles coverage.
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