2022 BMW Alpina B8 Gran Coupe

The 2022 BMW Alpina B8 Gran Coupe is a high-performance luxury sedan that blends the elegance of a Gran Coupe with the sporting prowess of Alpina. It’s only available with a single engine and transmission configuration. The engine is a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 612 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and distinctive styling. Downsides often cited include the high price, potential for expensive maintenance, and some of the quirks associated with BMW’s infotainment system.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, typically originating from the valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil on the engine, oil drips under the car, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, potentially stemming from the water pump, radiator hoses, or expansion tank. Symptoms include low coolant level, overheating, and visible coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak. This may involve replacing hoses, the water pump, or the expansion tank.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP76)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing rough or jerky shifting, particularly during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. This can manifest as hard shifts, hesitation, or a noticeable “clunk” during gear changes.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission software reflash/update by the dealership. If the issue persists, further diagnostics may be required, potentially involving valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (reflash) - $2500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The B8 utilizes an air suspension system for enhanced ride comfort and handling. Some owners have reported issues such as air leaks in the struts or compressor failures, leading to uneven ride height or suspension malfunction warnings.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the leak or failure. This may involve replacing air struts, the air compressor, or individual air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $4000+ per strut/compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can sometimes exhibit glitches such as screen freezes, slow response times, or connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
  • Solution: Software updates are often the first step in resolving these issues. If the problems persist, hardware replacement (screen, iDrive module) might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1500+ (Hardware Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with various sensors, such as parking sensors or adaptive cruise control sensors, can occur. Symptoms include error messages, inaccurate readings, or system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnose the faulty sensor and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Adjustment Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions with the power seat adjustment mechanisms, leading to difficulty adjusting the seat position or complete failure of certain adjustment functions.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the seat motor or associated wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2022 BMW Alpina B8 Gran Coupe, while a supremely capable and luxurious vehicle, does have some potential issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine oil and coolant leaks are potential concerns. The air suspension can be costly to repair. The infotainment system can be glitchy. Electrical sensor malfunctions are possible. Most of these issues, while potentially costly, are not uncommon for high-performance luxury vehicles. Thorough pre-purchase inspection and a good warranty are recommended.