Peter Lyon
May 26, 2025
With the introduction of a new 600-hp super-GT at the Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza, the Bovensiepen family—the creators of the renowned German BMW tuning company Alpina—has started their own coachbuilding company.
The family is changing its focus to become “a manufacturer of outstanding automobiles that embody the ambition of fine driving” now that BMW owns Alpina.
The first concept from the new team, simply called Bovensiepen, is a massive grand tourer based on a BMW M4 that is titled the Zagato, after the renowned Italian design firm that penned the design.
“A harmonious composition of individual design that bears the unmistakable signature of the traditional Milanese design studio” is how Zagato describes their debut project for Bovensiepen, which follows their prior collaborations with Aston Martin, Ferrari, Bentley, Maserati, and Alfa Romeo.
It is estimated that the Zagato’s construction takes around 250 hours, with production being “strictly limited”—though no exact figure has been provided.
At the end of this year, pricing and availability will be announced, with deliveries starting in the summer of 2026.
Bovensiepen claims that every vehicle may be “as unique as its owner” because to a wide range of cosmetic and interior customisation choices.
It differs significantly from the BMW it is based on thanks to a completely custom front and back end, a redesigned hood, an updated side profile, and Zagato’s recognisable double-bubble roof.
According to Bovensiepen, the Zagato’s 3.0-liter straight-six engine generates 603 horsepower and 516 lb ft of torque, allowing it to reach a top speed of almost 186 mph and just from zero to 62 mph in 3.3 seconds.
According to Bovensiepen, its custom Bilstein dampers provide “a range from pronounced comfort to athletic driving dynamics” and can be adjusted in three different driving modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus.
Additionally, Akrapovič equips it with a titanium exhaust system with twin exits that is lightweight and reportedly 40% lighter than the conventional system.
BMW tells us it will unveil the next steps for the Alpina brand in 2026, with ex-Polestar designer Max Missoni joining the German company to take lead of styling for all luxury models, including Alpinas.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Well-known in automotive circles as a coach builder since 1919, Zagato is famous for its association with Fiat and Alfa Romeo vehicles. The Zagato was unveiled by Bovensiepen barely one day after BMW unveiled the £430,000 Speedtop shooting brake, a special edition based on the 8 Series that will go into production the next year.
