Alpina D3 - the diesel saloon to outrun a sports car with

A car claimed to be the world’s fastest production diesel has just been launched in the UK.

The Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo, to give it its full name, might look to casual observers like a BMW 3-Series but this tuned and turbocharged saloon and estate – which has been BMW’s full official backing – pumps out 350bhp. Despite being powered by a turbodiesel engine it can get from 0-60mph in 4.6 seconds before reaching a top speed of 173mph, meaning it can outrun most of today’s hot hatches and sports cars.

The D3 Bi-Turbo is available as either a saloon for £46,950 or as the Touring estate version for three grand extra. Despite being classed as a car manufacturer in its own right, the Alpina is available through BMW’s dealer network, with a full BMW warranty.

Find out more at the Alpina BMW website.