While the world is still waiting for a proper BMW X3 M model, some are overlooking the fact that we already have such an offering. Yes, I’m talking about the Alpina XD3 Biturbo model that, even though it’s a diesel, it has performance to outrun and outclass a lot of SUVs in the segment.
And yes, we did say diesel Alpina. What would baffle a lot of enthusiasts would be the using of those two words next to each other as the BMW tuner is renowned for its petrol engines and not diesel ones. However, times are changing and Alpina has to adapt.
Their first diesel is also their first SUV, the lucky model chosen being the X3. The XD3 Biturbo uses an xDrive35d model underneath, the fastest one in the Bavarian company’s range.
In stock guise, it uses a 3-liter biturbo inline 6-cylinder engine making 313 HP and 630 Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque and, thanks to its xDrive all wheel drive system, will do 62 mph in 5.3 seconds. Looks good, right?
Well, the Alpina counterpart comes fitted with an upgraded mill under the bonnet making 350 HP and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque, capable of catapulting the SUV to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.9 seconds. That’s right, under 5 seconds!
It might not seem like a drastic improvement but you need to look at the whole package. The Buchloe-based tuner will also deck the car with their own exterior kit and that means it will be looking extremely classy from the outside, like any Alpina should.
The video posted below emphasizes exactly on these two attributes. The perfect mix of luxury, class and power is what defines a car built in Buchloe but it will also come with a price. To get a standard model you’ll have to pay at least €69,000. That’s a hefty €12,100 increase over the stock xDrive35d. Is it worth it? You tell us!
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