Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B3 |
| Generation | B3 Touring (F31 LCI, Facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 (410 Hp) 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 (economy) – urban | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg, 27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 179 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 300 km/h (186.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.2 kg/Hp, 240.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 351.9 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 | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2265 kg (4993.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 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 | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 |
The Alpina B3 Touring (F31 LCI) 3.0 represents the pinnacle of performance within the F31 3 Series wagon range. Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, traditionally takes BMW models and enhances them with a focus on increased power, refined handling, and luxurious appointments. Unlike BMW’s M division, Alpina maintains a more subtle approach, prioritizing usability and grand touring capabilities alongside outright performance. This particular variant, with its 410 horsepower and Switch-Tronic transmission, was positioned as a premium offering, appealing to buyers seeking a high-performance estate car that didn’t shout about its capabilities.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B3 Touring lies Alpina’s version of the BMW N55 inline-six engine. While based on the N55, Alpina extensively modified the engine with new turbochargers, intercoolers, pistons, and engine management software. The result is a 3.0-liter engine producing 410 hp and a substantial 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and twin-turbocharging to deliver a broad and flat torque curve. The “Switch-Tronic” transmission is a ZF 8-speed automatic, specifically tuned by Alpina for quicker shifts and more responsive behavior. It features a Sport mode and the ability to manually select gears via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The engine code is closely related to BMW’s N55, but with Alpina-specific calibrations and hardware.
Driving Characteristics
The B3 Touring 3.0 with the Switch-Tronic transmission delivers a compelling driving experience. The 410 hp output, combined with the eight-speed automatic, results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in around 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 186 mph. The Switch-Tronic transmission provides smooth and quick gear changes, particularly in Sport mode. While not as raw or focused as a BMW M3, the B3 Touring offers a more refined and comfortable driving experience, making it well-suited for long-distance journeys. The torque delivery is exceptionally strong, providing effortless overtaking power. Compared to the standard 3 Series or even the 335i, the Alpina offers a noticeably more powerful and responsive driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B3 Touring came exceptionally well-equipped as standard. Interior appointments included Alpina-specific leather upholstery, unique wood trim, and Alpina badging throughout the cabin. Standard features typically included a premium sound system, navigation, heated seats, and a sunroof. Optional extras included upgraded leather, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various driver-assistance features. The interior was designed to be luxurious and comfortable, reflecting Alpina’s focus on grand touring. The exterior featured subtle aerodynamic enhancements, including a front spoiler, rear diffuser, and Alpina-specific wheels.
Chassis & Braking
Alpina made significant changes to the chassis to complement the increased power. The suspension was retuned with stiffer springs and dampers, and the ride height was lowered slightly. The B3 Touring also featured larger brakes with upgraded rotors and calipers for improved stopping power. The braking system utilized ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with ABS and electronic stability control. While the suspension was firmer than a standard 3 Series, it remained comfortable enough for everyday use. The steering was precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B3 Touring was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. Reviewers noted the powerful engine, refined handling, and comfortable interior. Compared to the standard 3 Series wagons, the B3 Touring offered a significant performance upgrade. Against rivals like the Audi RS4 Avant or the Mercedes-AMG C63 Estate, the Alpina offered a more understated and refined experience, prioritizing comfort and usability over outright track performance. Fuel economy, while respectable for a high-performance car, was lower than that of the standard 3 Series models.
Legacy
The Alpina B3 Touring (F31 LCI) 3.0 remains a desirable and relatively rare vehicle in the used car market. The N55 engine, while known for some oil consumption issues in certain applications, has proven to be generally reliable when properly maintained. The Switch-Tronic transmission is also considered robust. The B3 Touring’s combination of performance, practicality, and exclusivity has ensured its continued appeal to enthusiasts. Values have remained relatively stable, reflecting the car’s unique position in the market and its enduring appeal.
