Alpina B3 Touring 2020 unveiled: AWD performance wagon under consideration for Oz

Alpina has revealed its new-generation B3 Touring AWD, based on BMW’s latest 3 Series long roof.

According to a spokesperson from Alpina Australia, the firm is finalising the business case to bring the B3 Touring to market.

“From an Australian viewpoint, the uniqueness of the B3 Touring has appeal and Alpina Australia is looking closely at bringing the Touring to market, as it did with the outgoing vehicle.”

The B3 Touring AWD adds a number of unique touches to the BMW upon which it is based, including the iconic multi-spoke wheels, improved aerodynamics, and premium upholstery, along with Alpina-specific powertrain adjustments.

The Alpina features a Lavalina leather-clad heated sports steering wheel.

Power comes from a 3.0-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, delivering 340kW and 700Nm, and optimised with a new cooling system and variable stainless steel exhaust.

The eight-speed automatic transmission has been tailored for Alpina customers, with a number of modes to deliver comfort-oriented and high performance runnings.

Alpina says that the vehicle is capable of travelling over 300km/h, and is “probably the fastest estate car of its kind”.

The new-generation B3 features an extended wheelbase, increased track width and higher chassis and suspension rigidity compared to its predecessor, as well as more negative camber at the front axle thanks to Alpina-specific pivot joints.

Eibach springs, unique bump stops and larger stabilisers are used for a more balanced suspension setup

Eibach springs and unique bump stops and larger stabilisers are used for a more balanced suspension setup, and variable dampers can be controlled via three modes: Comfort+, Comfort and Sport.

Using a version of BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the B3 Touring AWD can fully distribute torque as required to the front and rear wheels, although it is predominantly rear-biased in normal conditions.

A high-performance braking system is fitted, consisting of four-piston fixed callipers with 395mm brake discs at the front, and floating callipers with 345mm rotors at the rear.

Inside, the Alpina treatment includes metal emblems in the floor mats and seat backrests, logos on the door sills, a production plaque with the vehicle’s build number, and a Lavalina leather-clad heated sports steering wheel.