2021 Alpina XD3 price and specs: new hybrid power for sporty diesel SUV

The 2021 Alpina XD3 is arriving in Australia in early 2021, with buyers now gaining the benefits of a mild-hybrid diesel powertrain.

Alpina has a long history of tuning BMW models, carving out a niche between BMW's standard range of products, but below BMW's flagship M performance models.

Though the Alpina is again based on the BMW X3 xDrive30d, the new XD3 competes directly with the petrol-powered BMW X3 M40i, with performance, economy, and price roughly on-par.

Pricing for the 2021 Alpina XD3 starts at $114,990 plus on-road costs – up from the $109,900 launch price of last year's XD3 – with buyers getting a 3.0-litre twin-turbo diesel six-cylinder engine using a 48-volt mild-hybrid system.

The powertrain puts out 261kW and 730Nm – 16kW/30Nm up on last year's model – through a ZF eight-speed torque-converter automatic connected to all four wheels, Acceleration to 100km/h remains unchanged, though, at 4.9 seconds from standstill.

Alpina says the adoption of BMW's 48V mild-hybrid system delivers improved throttle response, as well as helping to deliver an average of 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres on the WLTP cycle. Emissions are quoted as 214 grams per kilometre on average.

While this hybrid diesel SUV is quicker than the iconic BMW E39 M5 in a straight-line, Alpina is keen to highlight the XD3's ride and handling abilities. The company's models have typically offered a more compliant ride than BMW's M equivalents, while still offering decent on-road dynamics.

Suspension is lower than the BMW X3 on which it's based, and Alpina has applied its own tuning to the suspension, steering, and xDrive all-wheel drive system. A computer-controlled rear limited-slip differential ensures its power gets to the ground when it's needed.

The new XD3 now gets a panoramic sunroof as standard where it was previously a $2690 option, along with Lavalina leather with electric seats, green and blue stitching, Alpina door sills, and a production plaque as standard. Buyers can option black piano trim with 3D Alpina logo.

The Alpina benefits from the full suite of BMW safety and tech equipment, including satellite navigation, communications and entertainment system with digital radio tuner, and a colour LED digital instrument cluster with an Alpina interface.

Outside, the XD3 gets a subtle Alpina body kit, LED headlights, and 20-inch Alpina Classic alloy wheels wrapped in ultra-high-performance Pirelli tyres. Buyers can option 22-inch wheels.

Alpina owners can also choose from a wide range of customisation options, from paints, trims, and interior combinations, with both the BMW and Alpina catalogues available to pick from.

The 2021 Alpina XD3 comes with a three-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and roadside assistance, and deliveries are expected to begin in early 2021.

Note: all prices exclude on-road costs

MORE: 2019 Alpina XD3 review
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