The Alpina B3 Touring (G21) 3.0, producing 462 horsepower, represents a high-performance variant of the BMW 3 Series Touring (G21) wagon. Introduced in 2019 and continuing through 2022, it occupies a niche position as a uniquely refined and powerful estate car. Built by the independent German manufacturer Alpina, the B3 Touring blends practicality with exhilarating performance, appealing to drivers seeking a more exclusive and dynamic alternative to the standard BMW offerings. It is based on the G21 3 Series platform, sharing its fundamental architecture but distinguished by significant mechanical and aesthetic upgrades.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B3 |
| Generation | B3 Touring (G21) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 (462 Hp) Allrad Switch-Tronic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 252 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg, 21.4 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 224 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 300 km/h (186.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4 kg/Hp, 247.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 375.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 462 Hp @ 5000-7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 154.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 3000-4250 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 3000-4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| 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 | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2490 kg (5489.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 625 kg (1377.89 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1510 l (53.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal, 12.98 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4719 mm (185.79 in.) |
| Width | 2068 mm (81.42 in.) |
| Height | 1438 mm (56.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2851 mm (112.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1572 mm (61.89 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, 395 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 255/35 ZR19, Rear wheel tires: 265/35 ZR19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 19, Rear wheel rims: 9.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Alpina B3 Touring (G21) 3.0 represents a compelling blend of performance and practicality. Production spanned from 2019 to 2022, building upon the foundation of the BMW G21 3 Series Touring. Alpina, known for its meticulous engineering and limited-production vehicles, transforms the 3 Series into a significantly more potent and luxurious grand tourer. Positioned above the standard BMW M340i Touring in terms of price and exclusivity, the B3 Touring caters to buyers who desire a unique and refined driving experience without sacrificing the versatility of a wagon body style. The “Allrad” designation indicates the vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system, while “Switch-Tronic” refers to the enhanced automatic transmission functionality.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B3 Touring lies Alpina’s version of the BMW S58 3.0-liter inline-six engine. While sharing the basic architecture with the BMW powerplant, Alpina extensively modifies it with bespoke turbochargers, intercoolers, and engine management software. These enhancements boost output to 462 horsepower and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and twin-scroll turbocharging to deliver a broad and responsive powerband. The engine code is closely related to the BMW S58, but with Alpina-specific calibrations. The eight-speed automatic transmission, branded as SWITCH-TRONIC, is also heavily revised by Alpina. It features a more aggressive shift strategy and quicker response times compared to the standard BMW transmission. The transmission is designed to handle the increased torque output and provide seamless gear changes during both spirited driving and relaxed cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The B3 Touring delivers a remarkably balanced driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, enabling rapid acceleration in all conditions. The 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in approximately 3.7 seconds, and the car boasts a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The SWITCH-TRONIC transmission contributes to this performance with its quick and precise shifts. Compared to the standard 3 Series or even the M340i, the B3 Touring feels more composed and refined. The suspension, while firm, is not overly harsh, providing a comfortable ride even on less-than-perfect roads. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver. The B3 Touring distinguishes itself from the M340i Touring through its more linear power delivery and greater emphasis on effortless performance rather than outright track capability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B3 Touring is exceptionally well-equipped as standard. Interior appointments include Alpina-specific leather upholstery, unique trim pieces (often utilizing wood or carbon fiber), and sport seats with enhanced bolstering. Standard features typically include a premium sound system, navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. Optional extras could include upgraded leather options, individual paint colors, and bespoke interior customization. The interior generally maintains the BMW layout but is elevated by Alpina’s attention to detail and use of high-quality materials. The dashboard features Alpina-branded gauges and a unique steering wheel design.
Chassis & Braking
The B3 Touring benefits from a revised chassis setup compared to the standard 3 Series. Alpina utilizes stiffer springs and dampers, along with reinforced suspension components, to improve handling and stability. The car rides approximately 10mm lower than the standard 3 Series. The braking system features large, ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. Front brakes measure 395mm, while rear brakes are 345mm. The ABS system is calibrated to work in conjunction with the all-wheel-drive system to maximize braking performance and stability. While rear drums are found on some lower-spec 3 Series models, the B3 Touring exclusively features ventilated discs all around.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B3 Touring was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. It was often lauded as a more refined and engaging alternative to the BMW M340i Touring. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was considered reasonable for a high-performance wagon, averaging around 24 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from Alpina’s meticulous engineering and quality control. Compared to the M340i, the B3 Touring offered a more luxurious and comfortable ride, but at a higher price point. The B3 Touring appealed to buyers who prioritized a sophisticated driving experience over outright track performance.
Legacy
The Alpina B3 Touring (G21) 3.0 represents a high point in the evolution of the performance wagon. Its combination of a potent engine, refined chassis, and luxurious interior has cemented its reputation as a desirable and collectible vehicle. The powertrain, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable, and well-maintained examples are expected to hold their value in the used car market. As Alpina continues to produce limited-edition vehicles, the B3 Touring (G21) stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to engineering excellence and understated performance.
