The Alpina D4 Gran Coupe (G26) S 3.0, produced from 2022 to June 2024, represents a unique blend of performance and efficiency within the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe lineage. Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, takes BMW models and enhances them with bespoke performance and luxury upgrades. The D4 Gran Coupe, specifically this S 3.0 variant, occupies a niche position as a high-performance diesel coupe, offering a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered rivals. It’s built on the G26 chassis, sharing its fundamental architecture with the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe but distinguished by Alpina’s signature styling and powertrain enhancements.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | D4 |
| Generation | D4 Gran Coupe (G26) |
| Type | S 3.0 (355 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD SWITCH-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| End of production | June, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 182 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, 175.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 361.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 4000-4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 118.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 730 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (538.42 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 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 | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2420 kg (5335.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1290 l (45.56 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 | 4792 mm (188.66 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2073 mm (81.61 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2856 mm (112.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1593 mm (62.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor, permanent all-wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission SWITCH-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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: 255/35 R20, Rear: 285/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front: 8.5J x 20, Rear: 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the D4 Gran Coupe S 3.0 lies a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine, designated with Alpina’s internal codes. This engine is a heavily modified version of the BMW B57 diesel, benefiting from Alpina’s expertise in turbocharging and engine management. The engine utilizes a sophisticated bi-turbo setup, employing two turbochargers – one low-pressure and one high-pressure – to deliver both strong low-end torque and high-end power. A mild-hybrid system (MHEV) is integrated, providing a 48-volt electrical system and a small electric motor that assists the engine during acceleration and allows for smoother start-stop operation. The engine employs a diesel commonrail direct injection system, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The valvetrain features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The engine is paired with Alpina’s SWITCH-TRONIC 8-speed automatic transmission, a ZF-sourced unit that has been recalibrated for faster, more responsive shifts. This transmission offers a manual mode for driver control, and is designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque output.
Driving Characteristics
The D4 Gran Coupe S 3.0 delivers a remarkably refined and potent driving experience. The 730 Nm (538 lb-ft) of torque available from just 1750 rpm provides effortless acceleration in virtually any gear. The mild-hybrid system contributes to a seamless power delivery, masking any turbo lag. The 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in around 4.6 seconds, making it genuinely quick for a diesel-powered coupe. Compared to the standard BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe diesel variants, the Alpina offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in a noticeably more engaging and dynamic driving experience. While the standard 4 Series diesel models prioritize fuel economy, the Alpina D4 balances performance with reasonable efficiency. The SWITCH-TRONIC transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and decisive gear changes, whether in automatic or manual mode. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Alpina D4 Gran Coupe S 3.0 is comprehensively equipped as standard, reflecting its premium positioning. Interior features typically include Alpina-specific leather upholstery with unique stitching patterns, Alpina sports seats, a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, and Alpina-branded interior trim. Standard technology includes a large infotainment screen with navigation, a digital instrument cluster, and a premium sound system. Optional extras could include features like adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and various driver-assistance systems. The exterior styling is also distinguished by Alpina-specific aerodynamic enhancements, including a front spoiler, side skirts, and a rear diffuser. Alpina also offers a range of bespoke customization options, allowing customers to personalize their vehicles to their exact preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The D4 Gran Coupe utilizes a sophisticated chassis setup designed to deliver both comfort and handling. The front suspension features independent McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. Alpina has fine-tuned the suspension settings to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling precision. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) ensures stability during hard braking. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina D4 Gran Coupe S 3.0 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, refinement, and exclusivity. It was often positioned as a compelling alternative to high-performance gasoline-powered coupes, offering comparable performance with superior fuel economy. Compared to other trims in the 4 Series Gran Coupe lineup, the D4 S 3.0 stands out as the most powerful and luxurious diesel variant. While the standard 4 Series diesel models prioritize fuel efficiency, the Alpina D4 focuses on delivering a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. Its fuel economy of 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) is still respectable for a vehicle of its performance capabilities.
Legacy
The Alpina D4 Gran Coupe S 3.0 represents a high point in diesel performance and refinement. The 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine, with its bi-turbo setup and mild-hybrid technology, is a robust and reliable powertrain. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, Alpina’s reputation for building high-quality, durable vehicles suggests that the D4 S 3.0 should prove to be a dependable performer. On the used car market, these models are sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their unique combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. The D4 Gran Coupe S 3.0 is likely to become a collectible vehicle in the future, appealing to those who value its distinctive character and engineering excellence.
