by A New Player in the BMW Tuning Market
A year after Bovensiepen impressed the world with its M4-based Zagato coupe, the company is ready to unveil its second model. The 05 GT is based on the BMW 5-Series Touring, has undergone a complete overhaul, and boasts power befitting a limited-edition M5.
Heir to the Alpina Tradition
If you’re wondering why the 05 GT looks so much like an Alpina product, there’s a good reason for it. Bovensiepen was founded by the same family that established Alpina — the tuning workshop fully acquired by BMW in 2022. Now, the company produces its own products. For the 05 GT, it enlisted renowned automotive designer Frank Stephenson, giving the car a restrained look that still sets it apart from the regular 5-Series. Essentially, it is the successor to the old Alpina B5.
Read also: A secret BMW is hiding under this new coupe from the Alpina founders
At the front, there is a new bumper with a sportier shape and a new grille featuring the large Bovensiepen emblem. Also fitted are 21-inch forged wheels with 20 spokes, shod in Pirelli tires developed specifically for this car.
Exterior Changes and Aerodynamics
Changes continue along the sides with new side sills, while the rear has received its own spoiler extending from the roof, a revised bumper, and dual exhaust tips. Overall, the car looks like a more restrained Alpina product, badges aside. Alpina may have mixed feelings about this, but a little extra competition in the BMW tuning space can only be a good thing.
Impressive Hybrid Powertrain
Undoubtedly, the most impressive thing about the 05 GT is its powertrain. Although it looks restrained and very similar to a regular 5-Series Touring, it actually uses the same plug-in hybrid 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 as the M5. This setup normally produces 718 hp and 1000 Nm of torque, but thanks to a new air intake, a titanium Akrapovic exhaust system, and some software changes, Bovensiepen has managed to extract 790 hp and 1100 Nm.
The luxurious wagon can accelerate to 100 km/h in under 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 305 km/h. It weighs 2555 kg, which is 5 kg more than the M5 Touring. Other performance-oriented changes include a modified suspension with new Eibach springs, revised strut bearings, and a strut tower brace.
Interior and Customization
The car’s cabin also offers plenty of highlights. The German firm has reupholstered the seats with new Lavalina leather sourced from select farms in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. The steering wheel is also wrapped in new luxurious leather, and, as expected from such a vehicle, buyers can choose from a vast array of different leather colors to build their dream car.
Price and Delivery Start
Bovensiepen plans to begin deliveries of the 05 GT in the fourth quarter of the year, with prices starting at €198,900 ($230,700 USD).
This car is an interesting example of how family heritage and engineering expertise can create a unique product that combines luxury, performance, and practicality. Despite being a new player, Bovensiepen is already demonstrating the ability to create cars that can compete with the best examples from BMW M itself. The choice of a wagon as a base is also strategic, as it offers more space and versatility compared to a coupe, which could attract a wider range of buyers looking for an exclusive and powerful family car.
