Alpina XD3: the BMW X3’s sportier sibling

Diesel cars, once the go-to vehicle for commuters, have come under fire in recent years for emissions-cheating devices and the amount of nitrogen oxide (NOx) gases expelled from their exhaust pipes.

While diesels now have a rocky relationship with car buyers and the Government, modern versions are far cleaner than their predecessors and - in the case of the new Alpina XD3 - significantly faster, too.

Alpina remains fully committed to the controversial fuel, with its new XD3 crossover boasting a 328bhp twin-turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine that’s capable of speeds of up to 158mph.

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The XD3 is based on the BMW X3, retaining the SUV’s off-roader style silhouette and 3.0-litre engine layout.

There are, however, some smaller details that set the two apart. For instance, the Alpina gets a bespoke bodykit embossed with the company’s name and a set of the brand’s iconic multi-spoke wheels. The XD3 also gets a quad exhaust system and a small boot spoiler.

Buyers can expect a similar interior layout to the X3’s cabin, although Alpina has replaced all BMW badges with its own. The dimensions are the same as the X3, too, so the XD3 will likely retain the standard car’s 550-litre boot.

Those in markets outside of the UK are treated to an even faster version, according to Auto Express. Alpina bumps the six-cylinder engine’s turbo count up to four, which boosts the crossover’s power output to 383bhp.

Alpina is keeping the XD3’s pricing and release date under wraps until the vehicle debuts at the Geneva Motor Show, which runs from 8 to 18 March.

But as Alpina is BMW’s premium sub-brand, expect the XD3 to cost north of the range-topping X3’s £48,950 price tag.