Soon after the launch of the facelifted BMW 3-Series range, Alpina unveiled the petrol-powered B3 and the diesel-powered D3 S models based on the updated sedan and touring bodystyles, offering increased performance and tasteful visual upgrades. Notably, the models are called BMW Alpina B3 and D3 S, a change that happened after the recent acquisition of the tuner by the bavarian automaker.
More Power For The B3, Same Story For The D3 S
Starting with the powertrain, the BMW Alpina B3 is fitted with an improved version of the turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine producing 488 hp (364 kW / 495 PS) and 730 Nm (538 lb-ft) of torque thanks to revised software, Alpina- specific mono-scroll twin turbochargers, a larger intercooler, plus optimised air intake duct and cooling system. This represents an increase of 33 hp (24 kW / 33 PS) and 30 Nm (22 lb-ft) over the pre-facelift B3, bringing it closer to M3 territory.
Power is sent to all four wheels through the xDrive, and the recalibrated eight-speed sport automatic transmission with reinforced components. The sedan accelerates from 0-100 km/h (62mph) in 3.6 seconds, while the touring needs 3.7 seconds. Top speed is increased to an impressive 305 km/h (190 mph) for the sedan and 302 km/h (188 mph) for the Touring.
See Also: The 2023 BMW 3-Series Touring Looks Even Better Than The Sedan, Too Bad We Don’t Get It
On the diesel front, the BMW Alpina D3 S comes with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbodiesel, packing hp 350 hp (261 kW / 355 PS) and 730 Nm (538 lb-ft) of torque, just like the model it replaces. Predictably, this one is a bit slower with a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.6 seconds for the sedan and 4.8 seconds for the Touring. Likewise, top speed is 273 km/h (170 mph) for the sedan and 270 km/h (168 mph) for the Touring.
Chassis upgrades include the Alpina Sport Suspension with new springs, bump stops and stabilizers, and variable damper control that changes depending on the selected driving mode (comfort+, comfort, sport, and sport+). There is also a recalibrated variable sports steering for better feedback. Brakes measure 395 mm at the front and 345 mm at the rear, coming with blue Alpina-branded callipers, while the pictured lightweight drilled discs and heat-resistant brake pads are optional.
Tasteful Visual Upgrades For Classy Looks
Alpina is known for the subtle sporty visual tweaks and the facelifted 3-Series is no exception. The new bumpers come from the M Sport package but feature Alpina-specific aerodynamic extensions with a more prominent splitter up front, and a body-colored diffuser at the back hosting the quad exhaust pipes.
The gorgeous multispoke Alpina Classic 20-inch forged alloy wheels shod in bespoke tires are optional, with a set of Alpina Dynamic 19-inch cast wheels coming as standard. The models are available in the traditional blue and green shades of Alpina, alongside many BMW and BMW Individual options. Finally, a set of Alpina stickers is available to further spice up the exterior.
Inside, the BMW Alpina 3-Series benefited from the new curved digital cockpit recently introduced by the facelift, with the larger 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen integrating the BMW Operating System 8. The digital instrument cluster comes with Alpina graphics, matching the Alpina badge on the sports steering wheel that is hand-trimmed in Lavalina leather. There is also an Alpina plaque on the center console with the production number, Alpina door sills and metal badges on the floor mats, dashboard and seatbacks.
Both Alpina-flavored 3-Series are already available to order with the first deliveries starting in October 2022. In Germany, pricing starts from €88,600 (equal to about $94,500 at current exchange rates) for the B3 Limousine, and from €89,900 (around $95,900) for the B3 Touring. The diesel-powered models are cheaper, starting from €77,050 ($82,200) for the D3 S Limousine and from €78,450 ($83,700) for the D3 S Touring.
