It’s safe to say that the golden era of sedans is over in an increasingly SUV-obsessed world. Nevertheless, BMW remains true to its roots. Supporters of the three-box sedan will not only get a new 3 Series next year, but also an electric i3 with a trunk. In addition, the 7 Series will have a life cycle impetus in 2026, and this will not come by itself. As you’ve probably heard, ALPINA’s version of Munich’s flagship sedan is making a comeback.
A new report sheds light on how the 7 Series will differ depending on the badge it wears. The version of ALPINA, codenamed G72, is said to be a G70 with all options except for the performance-oriented hardware. That suggests it will lean more toward a luxurious grand tourer than a stiffer M car. Given ALPINA’s decades-long tradition, this approach makes sense before the takeover of BMW the brand.
The Buchole-based niche brand has earned a reputation for building stylish GTs that are designed to effortlessly eat up kilometers rather than chase lap times. According to a Bimmer post Forum member familiar with BMW’s plans, the ALPINA 7 Series will feature unique wheels, trim elements and an improved interior with bespoke details.
However, patience is required if the G72 is the 7 Series you’re looking for. BMW will begin production of the facelifted G70 in July 2026, but the ALPINA variant will not roll off the production line until mid-2027. Unfortunately, the lavishly equipped model does not bring back the popular V12 of the old B7. Instead there will be inline six-cylinder, V8 and electric drives with the names 740, 760 and i7 70. All will come with xDrive as standard.
Although series production is not scheduled to start until July 2027, the world premiere is expected to take place next year. Expect a significant price increase over the equivalent BMW as ALPINA’s mission is to close the gap with Rolls-Royce. The 7 Series should be right between the BMW version and the Ghost.
The last ALPINA B7 sold in the US for $143,200 for the 2021 model year. In 2025, a fully equipped 760i will cost well over $160,000 today, despite having four fewer cylinders. It remains to be seen whether the upcoming ALPINA 760 xDrive will reach the $200,000 mark. Even if that’s the case, it will still significantly undercut the $357,000 Ghost.
Looking ahead, ALPINA will also pamper the next-generation X7 (G67) in 2027, catering to those who aren’t quite comfortable with a V12-powered Rolls-Royce Cullinan. However, the outlook for smaller models like the B3 and B4 is less rosy as BMW controls the ALPINA upgrade space and focuses on its largest and most luxurious vehicles.
To put it briefly: ALPINA is likely to be for BMW what Maybach is for Mercedes.
Source: Bimmer Post
