Alpina vs Mercedes vs Range Rover Diesel Shootout
Alpina D4 S Gran Coupé Review: The Last of a Dying breed
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The diesel performance car is a vanishing species. Once a mainstay for those wanting torque,efficiency,and long-distance comfort,it’s now facing an existential crisis thanks to tightening emissions regulations and a shift towards electrification. Finding three genuinely appealing diesel cars for comparison proved surprisingly difficult, highlighting just how much the landscape has changed.But within this dwindling group, the Alpina D4 S Gran Coupé stands out – a luxurious, rapid, and increasingly rare gem.
The End of an Era for Diesel Alpinas
BMW is rapidly phasing out diesel power, confining it largely to its SUV range. If you’re seeking a sportier, more engaging Bavarian experience, Alpina was, until recently, your best bet. However, even Alpina’s diesel options are limited, with orders now only possible until summer 2024. The impending absorption of Alpina by BMW adds further urgency; cars like the D4 S Gran Coupé, representing a unique blend of performance and refinement, likely won’t survive the transition. Rumours of a Maybach-style focus suggest a shift towards ultra-luxury, leaving the rep-mobile-turned-refined-GT segment behind.
Under the Bonnet: A Familiar Yet Potent Heart
The D4 S Gran Coupé, along with its competitors, boasts a straight-six, twin-turbo engine with mild electrified assistance. All three cars deliver around 350bhp, channelled through an automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive, resulting in a 0-62mph sprint time of approximately five seconds. On paper, the differences are subtle – primarily revolving around weight and, in the Alpina’s case, a remarkable 168mph top speed.
But the numbers only tell part of the story. The heart of the D4 S is BMW’s B57 six-cylinder diesel engine. This isn’t a new powerplant; it debuted in the 2015 BMW 7 Series and has since seen service in various guises - single, twin, and even quad-turbo configurations - finding its way into everything from standard BMWs to the rugged INEOS Grenadier. This proven lineage speaks to its robustness and inherent capability.
A Driving Experience Defined by Refinement
Stepping into the alpina D4 S is an exercise in understated luxury. The exterior exudes a subtle glamour, while the interior is rich and inviting. It feels special, a tangible sense of rarity compared to more commonplace BMWs. And it drives special.
The D4 S is remarkably easy to drive quickly and confidently. It’s a testament to Alpina’s engineering prowess that they’ve taken a solid BMW base and elevated it to something truly exceptional. Like a well-executed magic trick, the Alpina effortlessly smooths out even the most challenging road surfaces. You coudl almost forget you’re travelling at speed, requiring open sunroof and the sound of birdsong to remind you of the world outside.
It doesn’t sacrifice the core handling appeal of its BMW underpinnings, but adds a layer of cushioning and sophistication that transforms the experience. It’s a car that encourages you to relax and enjoy the journey, rather than relentlessly pursue lap times.
Who Buys a Diesel Alpina in 2024?
Most Alpina buyers now opt for the petrol-powered B3 or B4 models, drawn by their more visceral soundtrack and sharper responses. But those who choose the diesel D4 S are discovering a hidden gem. It’s a car for those who appreciate a blend of performance, luxury, and efficiency - a final flourish for a technology that’s rapidly disappearing. It’s a statement, a quiet rebellion against the prevailing tide, and a celebration of a unique automotive niche. The Alpina D4 S Gran coupé isn’t just a car; it’s a piece of automotive history in the making.