The Alpina B3 Touring (F31 LCI), produced from 2015 to 2017, represents a unique blend of high performance and practicality within the BMW 3 Series (F31) lineage. As a facelifted version of the earlier F31 B3 Touring, it continued Alpina’s tradition of refining BMW platforms into more exclusive, powerful, and luxurious grand tourers. Positioned above the standard BMW 3 Series and the M3, the B3 Touring offered a compelling alternative for buyers seeking a high-performance wagon without the overtly aggressive styling of the M car. This particular variant, equipped with the 3.0-liter bi-turbocharged inline-six engine producing 410 horsepower and paired with the all-wheel-drive xDrive system and Switch-Tronic eight-speed automatic transmission, was the flagship offering in the B3 Touring range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B3 |
| Generation | B3 Touring (F31 LCI, Facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 (410 Hp) Allrad Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg, 26.2 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 186 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 295 km/h (183.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 231.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 339 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 410 Hp @ 5500-6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 137.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 3000-4000 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 3000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2320 kg (5114.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1500 l (52.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4632 mm (182.36 in.) |
| Width | 1811 mm (71.3 in.) |
| Height | 1431 mm (56.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Switch-Tronic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/30 ZR20; 265/30 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 20; 9J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B3 Touring LCI lies Alpina’s version of the BMW N55 engine. While based on the BMW unit, Alpina extensively modified it with new turbochargers, intercoolers, pistons, and engine management software. The 3.0-liter inline-six features direct fuel injection and twin-scroll turbocharging, resulting in a broad torque curve and impressive power output. The engine’s output of 410 hp and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque is a significant increase over the standard 3 Series variants. The Switch-Tronic eight-speed automatic transmission, a ZF unit, is specifically calibrated by Alpina for quicker shifts and more responsive performance. The all-wheel-drive system, BMW’s xDrive, provides excellent traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The B3 Touring LCI delivers a refined yet exhilarating driving experience. The combination of the powerful engine, responsive transmission, and all-wheel drive results in a 0-60 mph time of around 4 seconds and a top speed of 183 mph. Unlike some high-performance cars, the B3 Touring maintains a comfortable ride quality, making it suitable for long-distance journeys. The Switch-Tronic transmission offers both automatic and manual shift modes, allowing the driver to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency, providing a good balance between performance and economy. Compared to the standard 3 Series or even the M3, the B3 Touring offers a more relaxed and refined driving experience, with less emphasis on outright track performance and more on usability and comfort.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B3 Touring LCI came generously equipped as standard. Interior features typically included Alpina-specific leather upholstery, sport seats, a premium sound system, and unique interior trim elements. Exterior features included Alpina aerodynamic body kit, signature Alpina wheels, and stainless steel exhaust system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display. The interior was designed to be both luxurious and sporty, with a focus on high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The B3 Touring LCI aimed to provide a more exclusive and personalized experience than the standard BMW 3 Series.
Chassis & Braking
The B3 Touring LCI features a sport-tuned suspension system, with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard 3 Series. Alpina also optimized the suspension geometry for improved handling and stability. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and electronic stability control systems further enhance safety and control. The chassis was designed to handle the increased power and performance of the engine while maintaining a comfortable ride quality.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B3 Touring LCI was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. It was often seen as a compelling alternative to the BMW M3, offering a more comfortable ride and a more understated appearance. Fuel economy was respectable for a high-performance car, with combined fuel consumption of around 29.4 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs were higher than those of the standard 3 Series due to the more complex engine and specialized components. Compared to other high-performance wagons, such as the Audi RS4 Avant, the B3 Touring offered a unique combination of German engineering, luxurious appointments, and a relatively exclusive ownership experience.
Legacy
The Alpina B3 Touring (F31 LCI) remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of performance, practicality, and exclusivity has made it a favorite among enthusiasts. The N55 engine, while known for some potential oil consumption issues, is generally considered to be a robust and reliable unit when properly maintained. The Switch-Tronic transmission is also known for its durability. The B3 Touring LCI represents a high point in Alpina’s history, showcasing the company’s ability to create truly special and unique automobiles. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the high-performance wagon.
