2020 Alpina B3 Goes On Sale In Europe As The 455 HP Anti-M3

The new Alpina B3 is now being launched on select European markets, becoming the first true high-performance variant of the G20 3-Series.

Customers in Europe wishing to place an order for the 2020 Alpina B3 will have to pay €81,250 (around $90k in current exchange rates) for the Sedan and €83,050 ($92,000) for the Touring.

Alpina’s take on the 3-Series uses a modified twin-turbo 3.0-liter straight six petrol engine delivering no less than 455 HP (462 PS) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. The latter is available from just 2,500 rpm. The turbochargers now feature Alpina’s flow-optimized housings, with the powertrain getting a new cooling system and a new air intake.

Paired to it is a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, featuring Alpina-specific software and revised transmission mechatronics to make it more responsive and deliver quicker shift times. The gearbox also offers a wide selection of shift modes, “ranging from comfort to super sporty” according to the Buchloe-based brand.

Alpina’s characteristic Switchtronic shift buttons on the back of the steering wheel are standard but customers can, for the first time, opt for a pair of CNC-machined aluminum paddles finished in a black matte finish.

Power is delivered to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system, which has also been updated by Alpina. A limited-slip differential on the rear axle is standard. Combined with launch control, the new Alpina B3 can deliver a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.8 seconds and a 0-124 mph (200 km/h) in 13.4 seconds (Touring: 0-62 in 3.9, 0-124 in 13.9). Top speed is rated at 188 mph (303 km/h) for the Sedan and 186 mph (300 km/h) for the Touring.

The chassis features adaptive dampers with three settings, combined with stiffer springs and fatter anti-roll bars. The front brake discs measure 395 mm (15.5 in) in diameter and work with four-piston calipers finished in Alpina Blue. A set of 19-inch multi-spoke wheels is standard, with 20-inch forged Alpina Classic alloys being optional.

Alpina, make ours a Touring please, preferably in Green Metallic over those beautiful 20-inch wheels.