The Bovensiepen family has officially stepped into the world of luxury coachbuilding with their latest venture, unveiling a stunning new super-GT at the prestigious Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza. This marks an exciting chapter for the family, known for founding the iconic BMW tuning house, Alpina. With Alpina now under BMW’s umbrella, the Bovensiepen family is pivoting to create “outstanding automobiles that embody the ambition of fine driving,” and their first offering, the Bovensiepen Zagato, is a testament to that vision.
What Makes the Bovensiepen Zagato Stand Out?
At its core, the Zagato is a grand tourer built on the BMW M4 platform, but it’s so much more than just a modified version of an existing model. The design is a collaboration with the renowned Italian design house Zagato, famous for its work with luxury brands like Aston Martin, Ferrari, and Bentley. The Zagato’s styling is described as a “harmonious composition of individual design,” showcasing the unmistakable signature of the Milanese studio.
The craftsmanship is impressive, with each vehicle taking over 250 hours to build. While the exact production numbers remain under wraps, it’s clear that this will be a limited edition, making it even more desirable for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Pricing and availability details are expected to be revealed later this year, with deliveries slated to begin in the summer of next year.
Customization: A Personal Touch
One of the standout features of the Bovensiepen Zagato is its extensive personalization options. Each car can be tailored to reflect the unique tastes of its owner, both inside and out. This level of customization is a hallmark of luxury vehicles, allowing buyers to create a car that truly feels like their own.
The Zagato also boasts significant design changes compared to the BMW M4, including a bespoke front and rear treatment, a reshaped bonnet, and the signature ‘double bubble’ roof that Zagato is known for. These elements not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its aerodynamic performance.
Performance That Excites
Under the hood, the Zagato is powered by a 3.0-litre straight-six engine, delivering an impressive 603bhp and 516lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse enables the car to sprint from 0-62 mph in just 3.3 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 186 mph. For driving enthusiasts, this performance is complemented by bespoke Bilstein dampers that offer three driving modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus. This versatility allows drivers to choose between a smooth ride or a more athletic driving experience, depending on their mood or the road conditions.
Additionally, the Zagato features a lightweight twin-exit titanium exhaust system from Akrapovic, which is 40% lighter than the standard setup. This not only enhances performance but also adds to the car’s distinctive sound profile, making every drive an exhilarating experience.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Bovensiepen
As the Bovensiepen family embarks on this new journey, it’s worth noting that BMW is also making strides with the Alpina brand. In 2026, BMW plans to reveal the next steps for Alpina, with ex-Polestar designer Max Missoni leading the styling for all luxury models, including Alpinas. This synergy between the two brands could lead to exciting developments in the luxury automotive market.
The unveiling of the Bovensiepen Zagato comes on the heels of BMW’s announcement of its own special edition 8 Series, the £430,000 Speedtop shooting brake, set for production next year. This timing suggests a competitive landscape where both brands are pushing the envelope in luxury and performance.
In the world of high-end automobiles, the Bovensiepen Zagato is not just another car; it’s a statement of craftsmanship, performance, and individuality. The big takeaway? Luxury isn’t just about the car itself—it’s about the experience and the personal touch that makes it yours. If you’re in the market for something truly unique, keep an eye on this exciting new player in the automotive arena.