The Alpina B3 Touring (G21, facelift 2022) 3.0, producing 495 horsepower, represents a high-performance iteration of the BMW 3 Series Touring (G21) wagon. Introduced in 2022 and continuing through June 2024, this model occupies the top echelon of the B3 Touring lineup, offering a compelling blend of practicality, luxury, and exhilarating performance. It builds upon the foundation of the G21 3 Series, known for its balanced handling and refined driving experience, and elevates it with Alpina’s signature engineering and bespoke touches. The facelift brought updated styling cues and further refinement to the already potent B3 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | B3 |
| Generation | B3 Touring (G21, facelift 2022) |
| Type | 3.0 (495 Hp) AWD SWITCH-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| End of production | June, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 10.1 l/100 km |
| Combined fuel consumption (US mpg) | 23.3 US mpg |
| Combined fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 28 UK mpg |
| Combined fuel consumption (km/l) | 9.9 km/l |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 229 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 302 km/h (187.65 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp, 253.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 373.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 495 Hp @ 5000-7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 165.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 730 Nm @ 2500-4500 rpm (538.42 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4500 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2430 kg (5357.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 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 | 4723 mm (185.94 in.) |
| Width | 1827 mm (71.93 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 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.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives all four wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Switch-Tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| 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 | Front wheel tires: 255/35 R19 Rear wheel tires: 265/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 9.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the B3 Touring lies a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine, internally designated as the B58. This engine is heavily modified by Alpina, featuring twin-scroll turbochargers, a larger intercooler, and a bespoke exhaust system. These enhancements contribute to the impressive output of 495 horsepower and 730 Nm (538 lb-ft) of torque. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a double-VANOS variable valve timing system for optimized performance and efficiency. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving all four wheels. The transmission is an 8-speed automatic, developed in collaboration with ZF, and features Alpina’s SWITCH-TRONIC system, allowing for manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. This transmission is specifically tuned for both spirited driving and comfortable cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The B3 Touring 3.0 AWD SWITCH-TRONIC delivers a remarkably refined yet potent driving experience. The combination of the powerful engine and the all-wheel-drive system results in a 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 187.65 mph. The SWITCH-TRONIC transmission provides quick and precise shifts, while the Alpina-tuned suspension offers a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling prowess. Compared to the standard 3 Series Touring, the B3 benefits from a more responsive throttle, firmer steering, and a more engaging overall feel. While not as raw or track-focused as some dedicated performance wagons, the B3 strikes an excellent balance between performance and everyday usability. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising, providing ample torque across the rev range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B3 Touring is comprehensively equipped as standard, reflecting its premium positioning. Interior features typically include Alpina-specific leather upholstery with diamond stitching, unique wood or carbon fiber trim, and sport seats with enhanced bolstering. Standard technology includes a large infotainment screen with navigation, a premium sound system, and a suite of driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras often include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather options, and a more advanced sound system. The interior is designed to be both luxurious and driver-focused, with a clear emphasis on quality materials and craftsmanship.
Chassis & Braking
The B3 Touring features a modified chassis compared to the standard 3 Series, with stiffer springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars. This results in reduced body roll and improved handling. The suspension geometry is also optimized for performance driving. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger calipers and rotors compared to the standard 3 Series. This provides ample stopping power and resistance to fade. The all-wheel-drive system utilizes a sophisticated xDrive system, distributing torque between the front and rear axles as needed to maximize traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina B3 Touring has been well-received by automotive critics, praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. It is often positioned as a compelling alternative to more mainstream performance wagons such as the Audi RS4 Avant and the BMW M3 Touring (when available). Compared to the standard 3 Series Touring, the B3 offers significantly more power and performance, along with a more luxurious interior and a more engaging driving experience. Fuel economy is understandably lower than the base models, averaging around 23.3 US mpg. Reliability is generally considered to be excellent, benefiting from Alpina’s meticulous engineering and quality control.
Legacy
The B3 Touring (G21) represents a continuation of Alpina’s long-standing tradition of creating high-performance, refined automobiles. The 3.0-liter B58 engine, in its Alpina-tuned form, has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant. As these vehicles enter the used car market, they are likely to hold their value well, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a unique and capable performance wagon. The combination of practicality, luxury, and exhilarating performance ensures that the B3 Touring will remain a desirable and sought-after vehicle for years to come.
