The Alpina D5 Touring (G31, facelift 2020) S 3.0, powered by a 408 horsepower engine, represents a unique blend of performance and practicality within the luxury station wagon segment. Introduced in October 2020, this variant builds upon the BMW 5 Series Touring (G31) platform, receiving Alpina’s signature enhancements to create a high-performance diesel touring car. It occupies the top echelon of the D5 lineup, offering a significant power upgrade over lower-spec models and catering to drivers seeking a refined yet potent driving experience. The facelift brought subtle styling revisions and updated technology, further solidifying its position as a niche but highly desirable vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | D5 |
| Generation | D5 Touring (G31, facelift 2020) |
| Type | S 3.0 (408 Hp) AWD Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | October, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 227 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 187 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 283 km/h (175.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp, 194.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 381.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 408 Hp @ 4000-5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 136.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (590.05 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 | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 2095 kg (4618.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2620 kg (5776.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1700 l (60.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal, 14.52 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4978 mm (195.98 in.) |
| Width | 1868 mm (73.54 in.) |
| Width (with mirrors) | 2126 mm (83.7 in.) |
| Height | 1466 mm (57.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2975 mm (117.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1611 mm (63.43 in.) |
| Rear track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Switch-Tronic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 395 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 398 mm |
| Front tires | 255/35 ZR20 |
| Rear tires | 285/30 ZR20 |
| Front wheel rims | 8.5J x 20 |
| Rear wheel rims | 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the D5 S 3.0 lies the Alpina-tuned version of the BMW B57D30 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine. This engine utilizes a sophisticated diesel commonrail fuel injection system, delivering precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine benefits from a multi-stage turbocharging system, incorporating a twin-scroll turbocharger and an additional auxiliary turbocharger, working in concert to minimize turbo lag and provide a broad, flat torque curve. The intercooler efficiently cools the compressed intake air, further enhancing performance. The engine produces 408 horsepower at 4000-5000 rpm and a substantial 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2750 rpm. This power is channeled through an 8-speed automatic transmission, branded as ‘Switch-Tronic’ by Alpina, which offers both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The transmission is specifically calibrated to complement the engine’s characteristics, providing smooth and responsive shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The D5 Touring S 3.0 delivers a remarkably refined and effortless driving experience. The abundant torque available from low engine speeds provides strong acceleration in virtually any gear. The 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in approximately 4.4 seconds, and the car boasts a top speed of 175.85 mph. The Switch-Tronic transmission contributes to this performance, offering quick and precise gear changes. Compared to the standard 5 Series Touring diesel models, the Alpina D5 offers a noticeably more responsive and engaging driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some gasoline-powered performance wagons, the D5 excels in providing a blend of power, comfort, and efficiency. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction in all weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Alpina D5 Touring S 3.0 is comprehensively equipped as standard. Interior appointments typically include high-quality leather upholstery, Alpina-specific interior trim (such as wood or carbon fiber), and comfortable, supportive seats. Standard features often include a premium sound system, navigation system, adaptive cruise control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems. Optional extras could include upgraded leather options, a panoramic sunroof, and various customization options through Alpina’s bespoke program. The interior design is largely based on the BMW 5 Series Touring, but with Alpina’s signature touches to create a more luxurious and exclusive ambiance.
Chassis & Braking
The D5 Touring S 3.0 features a chassis tuned for both performance and comfort. The suspension system is optimized to provide a balanced ride, minimizing body roll during cornering while maintaining a comfortable ride quality on uneven surfaces. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with larger rotors compared to the standard 5 Series. The braking system provides ample stopping power and fade resistance. The all-wheel-drive system utilizes a sophisticated torque distribution system to optimize traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina D5 Touring S 3.0 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. It was often positioned as a compelling alternative to more mainstream performance wagons, offering a unique and exclusive ownership experience. Compared to other 5 Series Touring variants, the D5 S 3.0 offered significantly more power and performance. Fuel economy, while respectable for a vehicle of this size and performance, was slightly lower than the more fuel-efficient diesel models in the 5 Series lineup. However, the D5’s superior performance and luxurious appointments justified the trade-off for many buyers.
Legacy
The Alpina D5 Touring (G31) represents a high point in the development of high-performance diesel touring cars. The B57 engine, in its Alpina-tuned form, has proven to be a robust and reliable powertrain. On the used car market, these vehicles hold their value well, attracting buyers who appreciate their unique combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. Proper maintenance, including regular servicing and adherence to Alpina’s recommended maintenance schedule, is crucial to ensuring the long-term reliability of these vehicles. The D5 S 3.0 remains a desirable and sought-after vehicle for enthusiasts seeking a refined and capable performance wagon.
