The Bovensiepen Zagato: A New Era of Luxury GT Cars
When you first lay eyes on the Bovensiepen Zagato, it’s easy to be momentarily confused. Is it a reimagined Mustang? A sleek BMW 8-Series with a twist? Actually, it’s none of those. This stunning coachbuilt GT, based on the BMW M4 Coupe, made its grand debut at the Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza, and it’s turning heads for all the right reasons.
What’s in a Name? The Legacy of Bovensiepen
If the name Bovensiepen sounds familiar, it should. This family is the driving force behind Alpina, the esteemed performance brand that BMW acquired in 2022. Rather than stepping away from the world of luxury automobiles, the Bovensiepen family has launched a new venture under their own name, aiming to create “exceptional automobiles that embody the concept of finedriving.” No pressure, right?
The Bovensiepen Zagato is their first offering, a collaboration with the legendary Italian design house Zagato. This partnership promises a blend of Bavarian engineering and Italian artistry, creating a vehicle that’s as much about performance as it is about elegance.
A Closer Look at the Design
At first glance, the Zagato’s design is striking yet subtle. The iconic double-bubble roof—a hallmark of Zagato’s design language—graces the top of the car, while the overall silhouette is a sophisticated blend of influences. The front and rear ends hint at the now-defunct BMW i8, with touches that evoke Alpina’s signature style. The taillights feature a sleek lighting signature reminiscent of Alpina’s designs, while the 20-inch wheels add a touch of class.
However, the front end could be described as somewhat understated. While it’s undeniably elegant, it lacks the boldness that might make it truly memorable. Still, the removal of the M4’s more aggressive grille is a welcome change.
Craftsmanship in Carbon Fiber
The entire body of the Zagato is crafted from carbon fiber, a material that not only enhances aesthetics but also helps manage weight. Despite this, the final curb weight is around 1,895 kg (4,178 lbs), noticeably heavier than the base M4’s 1,775 kg (3,913 lbs). The extra weight comes from the extensive customization and coachwork, but it’s a small price to pay for such a unique vehicle.
Inside the Zagato: A World of Customization
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a familiar layout derived from the M4, but with a luxurious twist. The interior features a deep blue color scheme, but Bovensiepen offers a staggering array of customization options. Buyers can choose from 16 standard leather colors, 45 shades of Alcantara, and even more through a bespoke program. It’s all about personal expression in this luxury GT.
Performance That Packs a Punch
Under the hood, the Zagato houses a reworked version of the M4’s 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. This powerhouse delivers an impressive 611 hp (449 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque, a significant upgrade from the standard M4’s 480 hp and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft). Despite the added weight, the Zagato can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in just 3.3 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 300 km/h (186 mph).
The car also features a lightweight titanium Akrapovic exhaust system, which is about 40% lighter than conventional setups, and a specialized suspension system from Bilstein, designed to enhance the “Gran Turismo” driving experience. Drivers can toggle between Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus modes, tailoring the ride to their preferences.
When Can You Get Your Hands on One?
For those eager to own a Bovensiepen Zagato, there’s a bit of a wait. Following its debut, production plans are underway, with the first deliveries expected by the end of Q2 2026. Pricing and production numbers will be revealed in Q4 of 2025, but it’s safe to say that this luxury GT will be a rare gem.
The Bovensiepen Zagato isn’t just another luxury car; it’s a statement of intent from a family dedicated to the art of fine driving. With its blend of performance, craftsmanship, and bespoke luxury, it promises to be a standout in the world of high-end automobiles. The big takeaway? Luxury isn’t just about the price tag; it’s about the experience. Start dreaming about your ideal ride, and who knows? You might just find yourself behind the wheel of this stunning GT in a few years.