Alpina works closely with BMW to develop niche models that slot between BMW's own range. The latest offering is the Alpina D3, a development of the 3-Series that neatly slips between the worthy
320d and the rather more sporting 330d.
Though the D3's 2-litre turbodiesel powerplant produces an impressive 200bhp and an even more important 302lb.ft of torque, Alpina is keen to stress the economical side of this car too, with fuel consumption on the Combined Cycle claimed to be 47.9mpg, as well as a low CO
2 emissions figure of just 156g/km. The latter in particular will appeal to company car drivers keen to keep their tax bill down.
That's the sensible bit out of the way; the rest is standard Alpina fayre, including a bespoke body kit and 19-inch Alpina alloys. Changes inside are modest, but do include part-leather seats, an Alpina steering wheel and gear knob and blue instrument dials. The price? £26,995 on-the-road, which actually undercuts the regular BMW 320d M Sport by £280. That's a very good price, especially when you consider the individuality aspect; Alpina reckon that the UK will only get about 100 examples.
Shane O' Donoghue - 4 Sep 2006