Currently reading: Alpina reveals hardcore B3 GT and B4 GT ahead of BMW takeover

Fastest variants of Buchloe BMWs get more performance, chassis tweaks and subtly reworked styling

Alpina has launched hardcore GT versions of the B3, B3 Touring and B4 Gran Coupé before BMW takes full ownership of the Buchloe firm next year.

Touting higher performance, aero-optimised design tweaks and chassis changes, the new GT models are due on sale in Germany from November, with a UK launch expected to follow in early 2025. 

The new GTs use the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine as the standard B3 and B4 but with a 33bhp power boost to a 522bhp peak, which is delivered higher in the rev range - between 6250rpm and 6500rpm.

Torque remains the same, at 538lb ft, sent through all four wheels through a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox. 

Each car's 0-62mph time has been cut by 0.2sec in line with the power increase, with the fastest - the B3 GT saloon - dispatching 0-62mph in 3.4sec. It has a top speed of 191mph – 2mph faster than before.

The GTs have also received chassis tweaks to improve handling and reduce roll, including a stiffer damper mounts, a reinforced bulkhead for more precise steering and a thicker rear anti-roll bar.

Spring rates have also been recalibrated for better ride comfort.

The B4 GT coupé specifically receives additional reinforcement for the anti-roll bars, as well as recalibration for the steering, dampers, four-wheel drive system and limited-slip differential.

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Design changes are in the same vein as the larger B5 GT. The B3 and B4 GTs wear canards on the front bumper, a redesigned rear diffuser and black exhausts.

They're further marked out by bronze 20in alloy wheels and bespoke badging.

The GTs' interiors are decorated with bronze stitching and paddle shifters, as well as a plaque on the centre console depicting the model number.

German prices are €101,700 (£85,600) for the B3 GT saloon, €102,900 (£87,570) for the B3 GT Touring estate and €105,100 (£89,400) for the B4 GT Gran Coupé.

Jonathan Bryce

Jonathan Bryce
Title: Editorial Assistant

Jonathan is an editorial assistant working with Autocar. He has held this position since March 2024, having previously studied at the University of Glasgow before moving to London to become an editorial apprentice and pursue a career in motoring journalism. 

His role at work involves running Autocar's sister title Move Electric, which is most notably concerned with electric cars. His other roles include writing new and updating existing new car reviews, and appearing on Autocar's social media channels including Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

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jason_recliner 6 June 2024

Wagon doesn't work, visually. Otherrwise, it's always amazing how much better Alpinas look than BMWs, with just some minor and basic revisions.

FastRenaultFan 6 June 2024
Does that green BMW estate remind anyone else of the MGT-T? I think it looks like one.
Just Saying 5 June 2024
Always liked Alpina.
There just seem to be able add the stardust to what's already a brilliant car!