2021 Alpina Diesel D3 S is the Next Best Thing to an M3 Diesel

Alpina’s 3 Series diesel hot engine is also available as a wagon.

Alpina introduced the new in October 2019, and now its 3 Series lineup includes a diesel counterpart. The D3 S is a powerful take on the diesel 3er formula, and it’s positioned above BMW M340d. The straight-six 3.0-liter engine is given a respectable 350 horsepower (261 Kilowatts) as well as a huge 538 pound-feet (730 Newton meters) of torque. This is an increase of 15 horsepower (11 kW), and 30 Nm (30 lb-ft) over M340d.

Performance-wise, the Alpina D3 S can reach 62 mph (100 km/h), from a standstill in just 4.6 seconds for the sedan and 4.8 seconds for its heavier wagon. These numbers are identical to those published by BMW for the M340d models. The sedan can reach 170 mph (273 km/h), while the Touring can go up to 168mph (270 km/h), according to the Buchloe-based BMW specialist.

2021 Alpina Diesel D3 S is the Next Best Thing to an M3 Diesel

The Alpina D3 S is designed to rip through highways and rack up miles at an effortless 1,750 rpm. This is the first model to incorporate BMW’s mild-hybrid technology. It provides a boost at low engine speeds and improves throttle response.

Alpina updated the transmission software for the ZF eight speed automatic gearbox. This allows it to handle the increased power and provides faster shift times. Standard equipment on the D3 S models is an electronically controlled rear limited slip differential. The chassis and suspension tweaks are borrowed from their gasoline sibling.

2021 Alpina Diesel D3 S is the Next Best Thing to an M3 Diesel

The D3 S uses the braking system of the larger HTML5 Bi-Turbo. It also gains subtle styling upgrades that Alpina models are well known for. This gives it an OEM+ appearance. Standard wheels are 19 inches, but you can order a 20-inch set with the classic 20-spoke design. This will reduce weight by 14 kilograms (31 lbs).

Alpina has begun taking orders for D3 S. Customers will be able to order the D3 S in November. The sedan starts at EUR70,500 in Germany while the wagon starts at EUR71,900.