Started in 1965 as a tuner brand that modified BMWs, Alpina is now fully owned by the German manufacturer. BMW took over control of Alpina at the start of 2026. What better time to look back at the finest cars and SUVs the tuner built over five decades.
BMW launches ALPINA as standalone luxury brand. New ALPINA 7 Series and X7 models coming late 2026 with V8 and electric. For decades now, Alpina, a small tuning house nestled in the countryside just west of BMW's home in Munich, has been taking the German firm's cars, adding a dash of extra luxury, performance.
From January 2026, Alpina will operate under BMW's umbrella as a distinct marque, defined by bespoke luxury, effortless performance and a design language that subtly nods to its heritage. Part of that identity has always been visual as much as mechanical, from classic Alpina Blue and Alpina Green paintwork to fine Lavalina leather, hand. BMW Alpina looks to take a leaf out of the Mercedes-Maybach book, with BMW's new subbrand devoted to luxury devotees.
Alpina is now an exclusive standalone brand under the BMW Group umbrella The independent tuner has always tried to strike balance between comfort and performance Marketing and awareness are the. BMW has officially taken full control of Alpina and given first hints of its plans for the long-running performance firm - claiming future models will focus on a "unique balance of maximum. BMW has turned one of its most storied partners into a fully fledged marque, elevating Alpina from tuner.
Alpina is known for tuning BMWs, though not in the same way that its vehicles would compete directly with high-performance BMW M cars. Alpina's approach has always emphasized performance balanced with equal measures of luxury and comfort.