New Alpina XD3 confirmed for Oz

Details on the facelifted 2022 Alpina XD3 have lobbed, with the high-performance mid-size SUV to offer a fresh look, a host of new equipment and an upgraded twin-turbo diesel engine when it launches in Australia later this year.

Borrowing heavily from the incoming 2022 BMW X3 and X4, which emerged earlier this week with wide-ranging exterior, interior and chassis upgrades, the new Alpina XD3 will arrive with an updated version of the current 3.0-litre six-cylinder biturbo diesel.

Benefiting from a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that provides an 8kW booster shot and improved throttle response, the powertrain now produces 261kW and 730Nm of torque.

According to Alpina, that’ll be enough to send the XD3 from 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 254km/h.

Fuel consumption is rated at 7.8L/100km on the official combined cycle.

Power is sent to all four wheels via a ZF-derived eight-speed automatic with aluminium shift paddles.

As we’ve come to expect from the German independent tuning company, the XD3 also brings performance tweaks such as revised variable sports steering that’s “more sensitive and precise” than before, as well as specially calibrated adaptive dampers for improved handling and dynamics.

Large 20-inch Alpina Classic alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Ultra-High Performance tyres do work on the ground, with “higher performing” brake pads now added for extra stopping power.

There’s still the option to upgrade the brakes even further, too.

The German tuner has also tweaked the xDrive all-wheel drive system, handing the XD3 a more rear-biased torque distribution.

Inside, Alpina says the new BMW sport displays now also show boost pressure, oil temperature and G-forces, alongside power and torque figures, while an array of customisable interior colour and material options continue to be available.

The fresh exterior includes a new front bumper and redesigned diffuser and tail-lights, among other minor changes.

Australian order books are officially open for updated XD3 – which has been the most popular Alpina model Down Under – ahead of its showroom arrival late in 2021.

“As a premium medium-sized SUV, the BMW Alpina XD3 is perfectly sized for this market, while its combination of six-cylinder biturbo diesel power and 48-volt mild-hybrid system ensures instant response, strong acceleration and incredible fuel economy,” said the brand’s local sales manager, Phil Jeffery.

“In short, the distinctive BMW Alpina XD3 always impresses, from the daily work commute through to weekend adventures in the city, country or coast.”

Stay tuned for full pricing and local specifications as they become available closer to the new XD3’s arrival.