Diesel Popularity in Europe

For some time now, choosing a diesel car has been a trend in Europe. This applies not only to practical vehicles but also to luxury cars where high performance is demanded.

In today's society, where understanding ecology is considered a sign of intelligence, both East and West, the affluent in Europe, in particular, seem to choose diesel as a means of self-expression. Consequently, while German premium brands and others are rapidly adding high-performance diesel cars to their lineups, diesel car tuning is also very popular in Europe.

BMW Alpina D4 Bi-Turbo Coupe

BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Limousine

In the current automotive landscape, BMW Alpina stands as a world-leading company. Since unveiling the "D10 Bi-Turbo" based on the then "5 Series (E39)" in 1999, they have been known as a pioneer in diesel tuning, leading the world. Furthermore, the "D3 Bi-Turbo," based on the previous E90 generation "3 Series," was officially introduced to Japan and became a surprising hit, even for Nicole Automobiles, the general importer.

Then, last year, the new "D3 Bi-Turbo" based on the current F30 generation 3 Series was released. This year, the "D4 Bi-Turbo," based on the 4 Series, also made its domestic debut, with further developments anticipated.

This time, we had the opportunity to experience the new D3 and D4, and thoroughly test drive the D4, which we will report on here.

A Feeling That Overturns the Image of Diesel

The power unit installed in the new D3 Bi-Turbo and D4 Bi-Turbo is the 3.0-liter direct-injection diesel with twin-turbo engine used in BMW's "335d" and "435d" (not officially available in Japan), which has been further enhanced by approximately 37 hp through changes primarily in computer settings, boasting a formidable 350 hp.

This results in a power output exceeding 117 hp per liter, remarkable for a diesel. Even more astonishing is the maximum torque of 700 Nm. This significantly surpasses the 550 Nm of the "M3" and "M4," which are gasoline engine counterparts in the BMW "3 Series" and "4 Series," showcasing the inherent potential of the turbo-diesel engine.

BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Limousine

BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Limousine

And when you actually drive it, you immediately experience that the specs are not just for show. The torque is simply immense. While there's a slight hesitation at the start before the turbo fully spools up, the acceleration from around 1,000 rpm is nothing short of ferocious.

What truly makes you feel "this is Alpina" is the engine's response and revving. The maximum output of 350 hp is achieved at a mere 4,000 rpm, and while the diesel's nature limits further increase beyond 5,000 rpm, the dramatic feel leading up to that point rivals that of a refined gasoline engine. Furthermore, the responsiveness to throttle input is incredibly sharp, almost unbelievable for a turbocharged diesel. If you press the accelerator carelessly, the unexpected torque surge will propel you into a state of acceleration that can feel almost frightening.

BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Limousine

And the sound that accompanies the surge of torque might be the most evolved aspect since the previous D3 Bi-Turbo. Benefiting from its inline-six configuration and the adoption of a dedicated stainless steel exhaust system co-developed with "AKRAPOVIC," a globally renowned specialist in exhaust systems, the exhaust note heard inside the cabin is simply magnificent.

Driven by the desire to hear a sound that combines the smoothness and power reminiscent of BMW's classic "big six" engines, I found myself repeatedly using the manual mode of the 8-speed "Switchtronic" transmission for unnecessary downshifts.

The Chassis: Where Alpina Magic Persists

While the engine often garners the most attention, it was the superb suspension that truly conveyed the essence of what makes an Alpina an Alpina.

First, one is surprised by the exceptionally comfortable ride, despite it being a high-performance sports model. Even with the optional, ultra-wide, large-diameter tires and wheels (245/30ZR20 front and 265/30ZR20 rear) on our test car, it offered a substantial ride quality that belied its approximately 1.7-ton weight, whether on city streets, winding roads, or highways.

Furthermore, the isolation of road noise and harshness was on par with that of a luxury sedan. This comfort level surpassed that of the BMW M3/M4, which emphasize a sportier orientation, and felt comparable to BMW's own 5 Series or 6 Series.

BMW Alpina D4 Bi-Turbo Coupe

BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Limousine

The D3/D4 Bi-Turbo comes standard with "Driving Performance Control," allowing selection of drive modes for chassis settings, engine response, and more, across "Eco Pro," "Comfort," "Sport," and "Sport+". Even in "Sport" mode, the excellent ride comfort was not compromised.

Moreover, it is remarkable that the handling has not been sacrificed at all. The previous D3 offered a well-balanced handling, skillfully leveraging the advantage of its inline-four engine's favorable front-to-rear weight distribution. However, with the new D3/D4, equipped with a straight-six engine that is naturally longer and heavier due to its increased displacement, one would expect a significant impact on handling. Yet, this assumption was quickly proven entirely wrong.

BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Limousine

BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Limousine

On winding roads, the suspension, which is not overly stiff, allows for a slight amount of body roll, yet the car turns into corners with surprising agility. The stability in high-speed corners is also exceptionally high, allowing you to enjoy driving in any situation.

Given its character, it may not match the M3/M4 on a racetrack, but on city streets, highways, or winding roads, it delivers handling that is second to none. This can be said to be a direct embodiment of Alpina's philosophy.

Bi-Turbo for the 21st Century

The BMW Alpina D4 Bi-Turbo we test drove this time is exceptionally unique and refined. It perfectly embodies the technology cultivated through its pioneering work in diesel tuning, while also being a "true BMW Alpina."

As I enjoyed driving the D4 Bi-Turbo, the image of a legendary car surfaced in my mind: the B10 Bi-Turbo, which debuted in 1989 based on the E34 5 Series. This monstrous sedan, once described as "almost as fast as a Ferrari F40," also offered an incredibly sophisticated ride, and remains a revered historical icon of BMW Alpina.

BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Limousine

BMW Alpina D4 Bi-Turbo Coupe

The modern D3/D4 Bi-Turbo, with its high performance of 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top cruising speed (manufacturer's claim) of 278 km/h, coupled with overwhelming torque, and an unexpectedly engaging engine feel and sound, evokes the B10 Bi-Turbo in every aspect. While the B5 Bi-Turbo is technically the successor to the B10 Bi-Turbo, the D3/D4 Bi-Turbo arguably holds greater historical impact. In a sense, they might be the most "Alpina-like" Alpinas currently available.

Incidentally, during this test drive, despite considerable throttle input, the instantaneous fuel economy gauge consistently showed over 12 km/ℓ. Considering its performance and driving pleasure, it can be considered a remarkably eco-conscious vehicle.

BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Limousine
Body Dimensions: Length 4,645 × Width 1,800 × Height 1,445 mm
Wheelbase: 2,810 mm
Tread Front/Rear: 1,540 / 1,555 mm
Weight: 1,660 kg
Engine: 2,992 cc Diesel Inline 6-cylinder Twin-Turbo
Compression Ratio: 16.5 : 1
Bore x Stroke: 84.0 × 90.0mm
Max. Output: 257 kW (350 ps) / 4,000 rpm
Max. Torque: 700 Nm (71.4 kgm) / 1,500-3,000 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed Automatic
Drivetrain: FR
Tires Front/Rear: 245/35 ZR19 / 265/35 ZR19
Top Speed: 278 km/h
0-100km/h Acceleration: 4.6 seconds
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode): 17.0 km/ℓ
Trunk Capacity (VDA): 480 ℓ
Price: (Left-hand drive) ¥9,990,000

BMW Alpina D4 Bi-Turbo Coupe
Body Dimensions: Length 4,640 × Width 1,825 × Height 1,370 mm
Wheelbase: 2,810 mm
Tread Front/Rear: 1,550 / 1,575 mm
Weight: 1,680 kg
Engine: 2,992 cc Diesel Inline 6-cylinder Twin-Turbo
Compression Ratio: 16.5 : 1
Bore x Stroke: 84.0 × 90.0mm
Max. Output: 257 kW (350 ps) / 4,000 rpm
Max. Torque: 700 Nm (71.4 kgm) / 1,500-3,000 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed Automatic
Drivetrain: FR
Tires Front/Rear: 245/35 ZR19 / 265/35 ZR19
Top Speed: 278 km/h
0-100km/h Acceleration: 4.6 seconds
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode): 17.0 km/ℓ
Trunk Capacity (VDA): 445 ℓ
Price: (Left-hand drive) ¥11,080,000

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