The Alpina D3 Touring (G21) S 3.0, produced from November 2020 to 2022, represents a high-performance diesel station wagon based on the BMW 3 Series Touring (G21). Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, takes BMW models and enhances them with unique performance and luxury upgrades. The D3 Touring S 3.0 specifically targets drivers seeking a blend of practicality, efficiency, and spirited driving dynamics. It occupies a niche position, offering a more potent and refined alternative to the standard BMW 3 Series diesel variants, and competing with other high-performance estates like the Audi S4 Avant and the Mercedes-AMG C43 Estate. This model is characterized by its mild-hybrid powertrain, all-wheel drive system, and Alpina-specific styling and interior appointments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | D3 |
| Generation | D3 Touring (G21) |
| Type | S 3.0 (355 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | November, 2020 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 198 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 176 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 270 km/h (167.77 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm |
| Electric motor power | 11 Hp |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 4000-4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 118.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 730 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (538.42 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B57D30 |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2415 kg (5324.16 lbs.) |
| Max load | 405 kg (892.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (min) | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (max) | 1510 l (53.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal, 12.98 UK gal) |
| Trailer load (braked) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4719 mm (185.79 in.) |
| Width | 1827 mm (71.93 in.) |
| Height | 1438 mm (56.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2851 mm (112.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Rear track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4), MHEV |
| Gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Switch-Tronic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 395 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345 mm |
| Front tires | 255/35 ZR19 |
| Rear tires | 265/35 ZR19 |
| Front wheel rims | 8.5J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rims | 9.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the D3 Touring S 3.0 lies the BMW B57D30 engine, a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine. Alpina significantly modifies this engine, increasing its output to 355 horsepower at 4000-4200 rpm and a substantial 730 Nm (538 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2750 rpm. The engine utilizes a sophisticated bi-turbocharger system with an intercooler, along with a diesel commonrail direct injection system. A key feature is the integration of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This system incorporates a 11 hp electric motor that provides assistance during acceleration and enables a smoother start-stop function, improving fuel efficiency. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving all four wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission, branded as ‘Switch-Tronic’ by Alpina. This transmission is specifically tuned for both performance and comfort, offering quick shifts and a refined driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The D3 Touring S 3.0 delivers impressive performance for a diesel estate. Its 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 167.77 mph (270 km/h) are indicative of its capabilities. The Switch-Tronic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s torque curve, providing seamless gear changes and responsive acceleration. Compared to the standard BMW 330d Touring, the Alpina offers a more urgent and engaging driving experience. While the standard car prioritizes refinement and fuel economy, the D3 S 3.0 emphasizes performance without sacrificing everyday usability. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good body control during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Alpina D3 Touring S 3.0 is generously equipped as standard. Interior features typically include premium leather upholstery, Alpina-specific interior trim (such as wood or carbon fiber), sports seats, and a comprehensive infotainment system with navigation and connectivity features. Standard exterior features include Alpina aerodynamic body kit, unique alloy wheels, and stainless steel exhaust system. Optional extras could include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded sound system, adaptive cruise control, and various driver assistance systems. The interior ambiance is distinctly more luxurious and bespoke than the standard 3 Series, reflecting Alpina’s focus on craftsmanship and exclusivity.
Chassis & Braking
The D3 Touring S 3.0 utilizes a modified version of the BMW 3 Series chassis, with Alpina-tuned suspension components. The suspension features stiffer springs and dampers, along with optimized anti-roll bars, to improve handling and reduce body roll. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger front discs (395mm) and rear discs (345mm) compared to the standard 3 Series. This provides enhanced stopping power and fade resistance. The steering is a precise electric power steering system, offering good feedback and responsiveness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina D3 Touring S 3.0 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. Reviewers highlighted the engine’s strong torque delivery, the responsive transmission, and the comfortable yet engaging driving dynamics. Compared to other high-performance estates, the D3 S 3.0 offered a unique proposition, combining diesel efficiency with genuine performance. Fuel economy, while not as high as the standard 3 Series diesel, remained respectable for a vehicle of its performance level. Reliability was generally considered good, benefiting from the robust BMW underpinnings and Alpina’s meticulous engineering.
Legacy
The Alpina D3 Touring S 3.0 (G21) represents a compelling example of a high-performance diesel estate. The B57 engine, when properly maintained, is known for its durability. On the used car market, these models hold their value relatively well due to their exclusivity and performance credentials. The mild-hybrid system, while not as advanced as full hybrid or electric powertrains, contributes to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The D3 Touring S 3.0 remains a desirable option for drivers seeking a refined, practical, and engaging driving experience in a station wagon format.
