ALPINA Automobiles launched Down Under in late 2016 with a range consisting of fettled versions of the BMW 3 Series sedan and wagon, and 4 Series coupe and convertible, and has since launched the B5 and B7, based on the 5 Series and 7 Series luxury sedans respectively.

Along with the XD3 mid-size SUV, the latest model to be locally launched by the niche tuner is the B5 Touring, the wagon version of the B5 and the only load-lugger in the BMW family to be offered with a V8 engine.

Despite Alpina not anticipating big sales numbers, the B5 Touring is a compelling package on paper with power, comfort and practicality. So, how does it stack up in the real world?