Alpina has been upgrading BMWs for decades, but the automaker-owned tuner isn't as focused on all-out speed as BMW's M division. Its cars are more luxurious, a bit softer, and more stylish but still deliver exceptional performance when asked. Alpina recently announced plans for the new 2023 3 Series cars, including the sedan and wagon. Called the B3, the Alpina-massaged cars are shockingly quick and plusher than any performance car has any business being.
The B3 improves on the standard 3 Series powertrain in several ways, including more horsepower and upgraded handling. Thanks to two Alpina turbos, the car now derives 495 horsepower from its 3.0-liter inline-six. Torque improves to 538 lb-ft and the car gets Alpina sport suspension with variable damper control. Four drive modes are also available, including Comfort+, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+.
Unsurprisingly, those numbers are indicative of solid performance. The B3 Saloon rockets from 0-62 mph in 3.6 seconds and passes the 124 mph mark in just 12.2 seconds. The car's top speed has increased to 190 mph. The B3 Touring isn't much slower, even with its practical cargo area. It makes the run to 62 mph in 3.7 seconds and crests 124 mph in 12.7 seconds. It's no wonder some call it a better-looking M3.
Unique exterior styling is a hallmark of Alpina's cars, and the B3 is no exception. It gets the brand's pinstripes and graphics, along with its trademark wheels. Alpina added new aerodynamic bodywork in the front and rear, and the front lip sports the iconic company badge. Exclusive Alpina colors include blue and green, but BMW's paint catalog is vast and available to Alpina buyers.
As you might imagine, the B3 isn't cheap. In Australia, Alpina charges $152,900AUS, which is around $108,000. German buyers pay €88,600 for the sedan and €88,900 for the wagon, or $94,582 and $94,902. Alpina offers dozens of options that can quickly drive the price tag over the €100,000 mark, including a €4,350 Merino leather interior, €1,950 Alpina exclusive paint, and €3,760 20-inch forged Alpina wheels.
Beyond the 3 and 7 Series, Alpina tunes the 4 and 5 series, along with SUVs. However, the B3 alone is enough to break hearts. We don't get the standard 3 Series wagon anymore, which also means we lose out on the M3 Touring. Buyers are further limited in their choices of hot wagons here, as the market is limited to the Mercedes-AMG E63 and the Audi RS6 Avant.