19 MPG combined is what you get for owning an Alpina B7. This isn’t a car bought by those tracking every gallon. It’s a statement of taste and power appreciation, where fuel economy is less important than effortless performance and luxury. The B7 buyer understands the trade-off.

City and highway performance

The 2015 Alpina B7 LWB xDrive, with its twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8, isn’t designed for hypermiling. Its 16 MPG city rating reflects the engine’s eagerness to unleash torque in stop-and-go traffic. Short bursts of acceleration are almost irresistible, and resisting isn’t the point of owning this car. On the open road, the 24 MPG highway figure is more respectable.

The eight-speed automatic transmission and tall gearing help keep engine speeds low at cruising speeds, but even then, a heavy right foot can quickly diminish those gains. The B7 devours miles with speed and comfort, and ultimately prioritizes thrilling performance over saving gas.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 BMW Alpina B7 at $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with an assumed fuel price reflecting national averages. Keep in mind, this figure is only an estimate, and your actual fuel cost will vary depending on driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the type of driving you do. Given this car’s performance, owners will likely opt for premium fuel with a higher octane rating.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the Alpina B7 can vary significantly. Expect to see numbers closer to the EPA figures with careful highway driving, but spirited acceleration or city driving will lower the average. Owners who frequently use the car’s power will likely see actual fuel economy that falls short of the EPA estimates.

However, those who prioritize smooth cruising and limit aggressive acceleration will likely see results closer to the EPA figures. This car’s fuel economy can be managed when necessary.

How it compares

The Alpina B7 exists in a small group. Its direct competitors include other high-performance luxury sedans, where fuel economy is rarely a top selling point. The Mercedes-AMG S63 sedan generally comes with a similar mpg rating around 16 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, trading blows depending on the year and specification. Another competitor, the Audi S8, also hovers around the same range, with published mpg figures indicating 15 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. These numbers are all similar.

The Alpina buyer isn’t compromising or gaining exceptional fuel economy when picking their preferred performance sedan. It is possible to get better efficiency in this category. A Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid can reach a higher combined mpg rating because of its hybrid system, but that buyer is also looking for a different personality and purpose in a vehicle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use cruise control on long highway drives. The Alpina B7’s adaptive cruise control system maintains a consistent speed, minimizing unnecessary acceleration and braking that can negatively impact fuel economy. While cruise control is active, select a reasonable following distance to avoid excessive braking due to sudden changes in traffic speed.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid hard acceleration. Use the immense torque of the engine to smoothly accelerate from a stop only when needed. The B7’s engine produces incredible power at low RPMs, so there is very little need to push the engine when trying to gain speed. Consistent and steady use of the accelerator means better fuel economy than quickly stomping and letting off of the pedal.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure for your Alpina B7. Check tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the car. This will minimize the amount of fuel wasted so the engine runs efficiently.

Keep your car well maintained by following the maintenance schedule for the Alpina B7. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other maintenance items ensure that the engine is running efficiently. Maintenance can minimize future problems, and save money.

If you want to learn more, check out all Bmw fuel economy data and ALPINA MPG across all years.