The Alpina B3 (F30 LCI), specifically the S 3.0 variant with 440 horsepower and the Switch-Tronic automatic transmission, represents a high-performance iteration of the BMW 3 Series (F30) produced between 2017 and 2018. Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, traditionally refines BMW models, offering a unique blend of luxury, performance, and exclusivity. The B3 LCI facelift built upon the already capable F30 platform, enhancing both its aesthetic and mechanical attributes. This particular variant occupied the top echelon of the B3 lineup, positioned above the standard B3 and offering a significant performance upgrade.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B3 |
| Generation | B3 (F30 LCI, Facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | S 3.0 (440 Hp) Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg, 25.9 UK mpg, 9.2 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 | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 180 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 306 km/h (190.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.7 kg/Hp, 269.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm, 404.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 440 Hp @ 5500-6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 147.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 660 Nm @ 3000-4500 rpm (486.79 lb.-ft. @ 3000-4500 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 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B3 S 3.0 lies a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine, internally designated as the B58. This engine is heavily based on the BMW N55, but features significant upgrades including a single twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, and a revised cooling system. Alpina further enhanced the engine with its own bespoke turbochargers, intercoolers, and engine management software, boosting output to 440 horsepower and 660 Nm (486.79 lb-ft) of torque. The engine utilizes Valvetronic technology for precise control of valve lift and timing, optimizing both performance and efficiency. The Switch-Tronic 8-speed automatic transmission, a ZF-sourced unit, is specifically calibrated by Alpina for quicker shifts and a more responsive driving experience. It features a manual shift mode for greater driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The B3 S 3.0 delivers exhilarating performance. The combination of the high-output engine and the optimized automatic transmission results in a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 190 mph. The Switch-Tronic transmission provides smooth and rapid gear changes, while the engine’s broad torque curve ensures strong acceleration in any gear. Compared to the standard 3 Series or even the base B3 models, the S 3.0 offers a noticeably more aggressive and engaging driving experience. While the automatic transmission doesn’t offer the same level of control as a manual gearbox, its responsiveness and efficiency make it a compelling choice for everyday driving and spirited performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B3 S 3.0 came generously equipped as standard. Interior features typically included Alpina-specific sports seats upholstered in premium leather, a unique Alpina steering wheel, and exclusive interior trim options. Standard exterior features included Alpina aerodynamic body kit, signature Alpina multi-spoke alloy wheels, and a sports exhaust system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded sound system, and various driver assistance systems. The interior was designed to balance luxury and sportiness, offering a comfortable and refined cabin with a focus on driver engagement.
Chassis & Braking
The B3 LCI featured a revised suspension system compared to the standard 3 Series. Alpina utilized stiffer springs, recalibrated dampers, and larger stabilizer bars to improve handling and reduce body roll. The car was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The suspension setup was tuned to provide a comfortable ride quality while maintaining excellent control and stability during spirited driving. The rear track was slightly wider than the standard 3 Series, further enhancing stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B3 S 3.0 was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. It was often positioned as a compelling alternative to the BMW M3, offering a more refined and comfortable driving experience while still delivering impressive performance. Fuel economy was respectable for a high-performance vehicle, with combined figures around 29.8 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from Alpina’s meticulous engineering and quality control. Compared to the 340i, the B3 S 3.0 offered a significant power upgrade and a more focused driving experience.
Legacy
The Alpina B3 S 3.0 (F30 LCI) remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and relative rarity makes it a sought-after model among enthusiasts. The B58 engine is known for its robustness and reliability, and with proper maintenance, these cars are expected to provide many years of enjoyable driving. The B3 S 3.0 represents a high point in Alpina’s history, showcasing the company’s ability to create truly special and engaging automobiles.
