The Alpina D5 Touring (F11), produced between 2011 and 2013, represents a unique blend of high-performance diesel engineering and practical estate car functionality. Based on the BMW 5 Series Touring (F11) chassis, the D5 was Alpina’s offering for those seeking a powerful, refined, and relatively discreet performance vehicle. It occupied a niche position, bridging the gap between standard BMW models and the more overtly sporting Alpina B5. This variant, equipped with the 3.0-liter biturbo diesel engine producing 350 horsepower, was positioned as the flagship of the D5 range, offering a significant performance upgrade over lower-powered D5 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Alpina |
| Model | D5 |
| Generation | D5 Touring (F11) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 (350 Hp) BITURBO |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 273 km/h (169.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.6 kg/Hp, 178.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 356.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 350 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 116.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 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 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1965 kg (4332.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2595 kg (5721 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1670 l (58.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal, 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4913 mm (193.43 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1453 mm (57.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm (116.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1599 mm (62.95 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1599 mm (62.95 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Tires size | 255/35 ZR20; 285/30 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20; 9.5J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Alpina D5 Touring (F11) was introduced as a high-performance diesel variant of the BMW 5 Series Touring. Production spanned from 2011 to 2013, and it was built on the F11 5 Series platform, known for its spaciousness and driving dynamics. Alpina, a renowned German automotive engineering company, took the already capable 5 Series and elevated it with a potent diesel engine, bespoke suspension tuning, and distinctive styling cues. The D5 Touring aimed to provide a unique proposition: the practicality of a wagon combined with the performance and refinement typically associated with high-end sports sedans. It was a relatively low-volume model, adding to its exclusivity.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the D5 Touring lies Alpina’s 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine, designated with various internal codes depending on the specific year and market. This engine is fundamentally based on BMW’s N57 diesel architecture, but extensively modified by Alpina. The key upgrade is the implementation of a twin-turbocharger system, utilizing a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and a conventional turbocharger working in sequence. This configuration minimizes turbo lag and delivers a broad, flat torque curve. The engine features a common rail direct injection system, operating at extremely high pressures to optimize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions. The engine also benefits from a larger intercooler and a reinforced crankshaft and connecting rods to handle the increased power output. The 8-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is specifically calibrated by Alpina for optimized shift points and responsiveness, complementing the engine’s characteristics. Unlike some performance cars, Alpina focused on maximizing usable torque rather than peak horsepower, resulting in effortless acceleration in real-world driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The D5 Touring’s driving experience is characterized by its remarkable blend of performance and comfort. The 350 horsepower and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque provide effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and intelligently, always seeming to be in the right gear. Compared to the standard 5 Series diesel models, the D5 offers a noticeably more responsive throttle and a more urgent feel. While not as overtly sporty as the Alpina B5, which utilizes a gasoline engine, the D5 provides ample power for spirited driving and comfortable long-distance cruising. The suspension, tuned by Alpina, strikes a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a balanced feel, although traction can be a concern in slippery conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The D5 Touring came generously equipped, building upon the already well-appointed BMW 5 Series Touring. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium sound system, navigation, and a sunroof. Alpina-specific touches included unique interior trim pieces, Alpina badging, and a bespoke steering wheel. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and upgraded interior trim materials. The interior generally followed the BMW 5 Series design language, but with Alpina’s signature touches of luxury and refinement. The exterior featured subtle aerodynamic enhancements, including a front spoiler, rear diffuser, and Alpina-specific wheels.
Chassis & Braking
The D5 Touring retained the BMW 5 Series’ sophisticated chassis, featuring a multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. Alpina made subtle modifications to the suspension geometry and damping rates to optimize handling and ride comfort. The car was equipped with powerful brakes, featuring large ventilated discs at all four corners. While some 5 Series models utilized rear drum brakes, the D5 Touring exclusively featured disc brakes all around, providing ample stopping power. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The standard tire size was 255/35 ZR20 at the front and 285/30 ZR20 at the rear, providing excellent grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Alpina D5 Touring was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. It was often compared to other high-performance wagons, such as the Audi RS6 Avant and the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Estate. While those rivals offered more outright performance, the D5 Touring provided a more refined and fuel-efficient alternative. Fuel economy was a strong point for the D5, with combined fuel consumption figures around 37.9 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from the robust BMW underpinnings and Alpina’s meticulous engineering. However, maintenance costs could be higher than those of a standard 5 Series due to the specialized components and Alpina’s higher labor rates.
Legacy
The Alpina D5 Touring (F11) remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market, particularly for those seeking a unique and refined performance wagon. The 3.0-liter biturbo diesel engine has proven to be durable and reliable, provided it has been properly maintained. While parts availability can be a concern due to the car’s relatively low production numbers, Alpina continues to support its vehicles with parts and service. The D5 Touring represents a high point in Alpina’s history, showcasing the company’s ability to create truly special and engaging automobiles. Its combination of performance, luxury, and practicality continues to appeal to discerning drivers today.
