Alpina has trimmed its range in Australia, dropping the BMW 5 Series-based B5 and B5 Touring from the local line-up.

    “Due to homologation changes required for the Australian market 5 Series range, the decision was taken to streamline Alpina’s product offer,” a spokesperson told CarExpert.

    “This means the BMW Alpina B5 range will no longer be offered here.”

    Alpina says a limited number of pre-facelift examples of the B5 Touring and sedan still available, meaning buyers keen to get their hands on the 447kW, 800Nm family hauler will need to move fast.

    With the B5 gone from Australia, the BMW X7-based XB7 will serve as flagship for the Alpina range when it arrives early in 2021.

    An updated version of the XD3 SUV (below) is on track to arrive early next year with mild-hybrid technology, and the BMW 3 Series-based B3 Touring and sedan will touch down later this year.

    A facelifted version of the Alpina B5 (below), based on the recently-revealed BMW 5 Series update, was this morning revealed for Europe.

    Along with new looks, the update has 10kW more than the outgoing model. It’s now 0.1 seconds faster to 100km/h, but the 330km/h top speed remains the same.

    Under the skin, the B5 has reworked dampers, stiffer springs, and a bigger set of brakes to more effectively manage its considerable mass.

    European deliveries of the updated B5 will begin later this year.

    Scott Collie

    Scott Collie is an automotive journalist based in Melbourne, Australia. Scott studied journalism at RMIT University and, after a lifelong obsession with everything automotive, started covering the car industry shortly afterwards. He has a passion for travel, and is an avid Melbourne Demons supporter.

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