Alpha-N Performance – carbon tuning of the BMW M2 G87 and M3 G81 Touring

Alpha-N Performance is a German tuning company specializing in advanced modifications of BMW M cars. Although it was founded only in 2013, it has already built a strong position in the tuning world thanks to the highest quality carbon fiber components . Alpha-N parts are designed to bring motorsport technology to the road – no wonder even racing teams use them . The company is renowned for its innovative aerodynamic solutions and extremely lightweight bodywork for BMWs, earning a reputation as a carbon fiber expert . In this article, we take a closer look at what Alpha-N has to offer for the latest BMW M2 G87 and BMW M3 G81 Touring models – and how this translates into tuning the BMW M2 G87 and BMW M3 Touring in terms of performance, looks and driving experience.

Alpha-N Performance – motorsport quality

Alpha-N Performance has focused on quality and innovation since the beginning of its activity. All components are made in Germany using technologically advanced composite materials. The brand's specialty is carbon fiber elements - light and durable. Thanks to this, Alpha-N parts often exceed factory equivalents in terms of weight and resistance. The manufacturer emphasizes that it uses motorsport experience in the design, ensuring maximum functionality of its products. For example, most Alpha-N carbon parts are made using the pre-preg method (autoclave) in a 2x2 twill weave, which guarantees a perfect appearance and high durability with minimal weight. .

Importantly, Alpha-N takes care not only of the visual effect , but above all of the real benefits in driving . Each modification is designed to improve the performance or driving characteristics of the car. The company's motto can be summed up as follows: "maximum motorsport on the road" This philosophy also guides the upgrades offered for current BMW M models, including the M2 G87 and M3 G81 Touring .

BMW M2 G87 – a compact predator with a carbon claw

The BMW M2 G87 is already a great machine as a production car – it has a 460-horsepower R6 S58 engine and rear-wheel drive, which guarantees great performance. However, even the BMW M2 G87 tuning in the factory version has some areas that can be improved. Alpha-N Performance has developed a whole package of modifications dedicated to the M2 G87, focusing mainly on reducing weight , improving aerodynamics and increasing cooling efficiency . Thanks to them, the smallest BMW M can gain an even more track character, without losing any of its versatility.

Carbon body parts of the M2 G87

The first thing you notice about the Alpha-N M2's design is the carbon fiber engine cover . Made entirely of CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) and reinforced with a Kevlar lining, it's about 7.5 pounds (3.4 kg) lighter than the original . What's more, the hood has integrated large air outlets inspired by the BMW M2 CS and M2 GTS race cars. These openings effectively remove hot air from the engine bay, improving cooling of the S58 unit during hard driving . A lighter and better-cooled hood means not only less weight on the front axle (which helps agility), but also a lower risk of power loss under long-term thermal stress on the track.

Another impressive modification is the CSL's carbon trunk lid . Alpha-N has redesigned the M2's trunk lid, adding an integrated ducktail spoiler based on the legendary CSL. This spoiler shape not only adds aggressive style to the rear of the car, but also generates additional downforce on the rear axle at high speeds. . The carbon fiber cover weighs just ~5.2 kg (11.5 lbs) and saves about 3.6 kg over the standard steel cover . Less mass at the rear means better balance and slightly better acceleration, while the extra downforce improves stability in fast corners. Crucially, the CSL carbon tailgate for the M2 G87 is supplied in a raw finish (carbon visible), allowing the owner to choose whether to paint it to match the body colour or leave the fibre weave exposed for visual effect.

The integrated Alpha-N carbon ducktail spoiler on the BMW M2 G87 takes its design cues from the BMW M3 CSL, providing an aggressive look and additional aerodynamic downforce

Alpha-N also offers carbon front fenders (so-called mudguards ) for the M2 G87. They replace the standard steel front fenders, reducing unsprung weight – each weighs less than 1 kg! What's more, the V2 fenders have integrated louvres and airflow extensions, which help reduce turbulent air in the wheel arches and thus reduce front lift at high speeds. This is a nod to motorsport – similar solutions were used in the racing M4 GT4. All body elements from Alpha-N (hoods, flaps, fenders) are designed to OEM standards in terms of dimensions and mounting points, making their assembly relatively simple, and their fit very precise . Each of these components is an original Alpha-N product with a unique catalog number and requires possible registration (TÜV) for use on public roads. .

Aerodynamics and carbon fiber accessories

In addition to replacing the large body panels with carbon, tuning the BMW M2 G87 from Alpha-N includes a number of aerodynamic additions . At the front, there are at least three versions of front spoilers available: Clubsport , GT and the most extensive Class 3 version with an adjustable splitter. All of these extensions are made of pre-preg carbon and are designed to increase downforce on the front axle. The largest of them (Class 3) even has a multi-point splitter adjustment, allowing you to adjust the car's aerodynamic balance to the specifics of the track or the driver's preferences. For those looking for more subtle modifications, the Clubsport and GT versions provide a more subdued look, still improving aerodynamics, but without being so ostentatious. Each of these extensions visually lowers and optically widens the front of the M2, giving it a more aggressive track presence .

For the front aero kit, Alpha-N offers canards – small vertical ailerons mounted on the sides of the M2 G87 front bumper. Their task is to stabilize the air flow flowing around the car and generate additional, point-based pressure on the front axle. Made of carbon and precisely matched to the shape of the bumper, the canards emphasize the racing pedigree of the modification. In turn, the brake cooling ducts (Carbon Brake Ducts) from Alpha-N are a functional addition – carbon fiber channels directing air to the discs and calipers, which helps reduce brake temperatures during hard driving. This will be appreciated especially by those M2 drivers who plan track days – cooler brakes mean more repeatable braking and a lower risk of fading .

The rear of the BMW M2 G87 can also be enhanced with Alpha-N elements. In addition to the aforementioned CSL flap, a two-piece rear diffuser with a flat floor is available. This carbon diffuser, in combination with the underbody spoiler, smoothes the airflow under the car and at the bumper, which reduces turbulence and negative pressure behind the car . The result? More downforce on the rear axle and slightly lower drag – meaning better stability in fast corners and potentially a higher top speed. The cherry on the cake (literally), however, are the rear wings. Alpha-N offers a wide range of rear spoilers/wings for the M2 G87 – from subtle G4 or Sport splitters to a substantial, adjustable “Class 3” wing straight from the racetrack . The largest wings (GP 1400mm Clubsport or 1300mm Street) are reminiscent of those on the BMW M4 GT and provide maximum downforce on the track, while the smaller spoilers are more subdued and suitable for street use as well. All Alpha-N wing mounts are designed to distribute downforce across the bodywork without damaging it – so you can enjoy real aerodynamic benefits while maintaining structural safety.

It is worth adding that even details such as the M2 grille (kidneys) have been given an Alpha-N version. The manufacturer has created a front carbon radiator grille with a changed style - without the horizontal crossbar known from the serial M2 and with a more aggressive rib pattern. . Such a grill increases the airflow to the radiators and emphasizes the individual character of the front of the car. For style purists, the Alpha-N even has a carbon engine cover with a logo - a purely aesthetic treat under the hood, which is nevertheless pleasing to the eye at rallies or when inspecting the engine compartment.

Intake system and suspension - potential for further improvement

Although the Alpha-N package for the M2 G87 focuses primarily on aerodynamics and weight reduction, the mechanical aspect has not been forgotten. The S58 engine in the M2 generates powerful performance, and thanks to modifications to the intake system, its response can be further improved. Alpha-N Performance has developed, among other things, a sports airbox for models with the S58 - a carbon air filter housing with increased flow. Such an Alpha-N airbox (although designed for the M3/M4, can also be used in the M2 G87) provides a cooler and denser air charge for the turbochargers, which translates into better combustion efficiency and a potential increase in power after appropriate tuning. Additionally, the carbon airbox adds a race-style suction sound during acceleration, enhancing the experience behind the wheel. The intake system is therefore an area where M2 G87 owners can expect further innovations from Alpha-N in the future – perhaps dedicated intake kits or improved intercoolers, especially when they start tuning the S58 engines to higher power.

When it comes to suspension , Alpha-N is happy to work with renowned partners to provide a complete package of modifications. An example is the cooperation with Öhlins - a world leader in the field of sports suspensions. For the M2 G87, Alpha-N offers the Öhlins Road & Track suspension, which offers both improved handling on the track and maintaining comfort on a daily basis. Such a threaded coilover kit allows for adjustment of the height and stiffness of the suspension, while at the same time reducing the weight (up to ~10 kg less than the standard shock absorbers from the M2) thanks to the use of lightweight aluminum components. For the driver, this means sharper response of the car to steering movements, less body roll and better traction, without excessive deterioration of ride comfort on a potholed road. Such a compromise is ideal for M2 owners who use the car both in street conditions and occasionally on the track.

The wheels are also worth mentioning – Alpha-N offers its own ultra-lightweight Alpha F-ONE aluminum rims (20” and 21”) for the M2, and also promotes proven models from other manufacturers (such as Edelweiss rims in demo projects). Lighter rims mean less unsprung mass, which further improves handling and quickens the suspension’s response on bumps. Combined with stronger brakes (e.g. dedicated pads and steel braided cables), a complete M2 G87 tuning allows you to turn this car into a real track toy for enthusiasts – without losing the possibility of everyday use.

BMW M3 G81 Touring – a super station wagon on Alpha-N steroids

Let's move on to our second hero, the BMW M3 G81 Touring . This long-awaited model (the first ever official M3 in a station wagon body) combines the brutal performance of the M3 sedan with the practicality of a family station wagon. For many enthusiasts, it is the perfect "car for everything". However, even the BMW M3 Touring tuning can take its capabilities to the next level. Alpha-N Performance saw huge potential in the M3 G81 and prepared a set of modifications that will give this super station wagon even more sporty bite - both in terms of appearance and driving.

Carbon where the factory didn't provide - roof and more

One of the distinguishing features of the current generation M3/M4 (G80/G82) is the optional carbon roof fitted at the factory. Unfortunately, BMW did not provide such an option for the M3 Touring (G81) – all units leave the production line with a traditional steel roof, which is probably dictated by structural issues and the weight of additional equipment (such as roof rails). However, Alpha-N Performance decided that a carbon roof is exactly "what the M3 Touring was missing" – and created its own replacement. The Alpha-N carbon roof for the BMW M3 G81 is made of a precisely fitted CFRP panel, which replaces the steel roof plate. This solution is based on the factory CSL roofs – the carbon remains exposed (version in clear or matte paint to choose from), which gives the visual effect of sporty lightness . More importantly, however, such a roof lowers the vehicle's center of gravity and reduces the total weight by several kilograms at the very top of the structure. Anyone who has driven a car with a heavy roof rack knows how much the extra weight above your head affects body roll – here we do the opposite, subtracting ~5–6 kg from the highest point of the car. The result is better handling in corners and a faster reaction to changes in direction. Additionally, the optics of the M3 Touring on the carbon roof gain a race-style touch – the station wagon looks as if it came straight from the racing paddock.

Alpha-N Performance Project BMW M3 (G80) – visible carbon splitter, side skirts, fender flares and vented hood. The same components are available for the G81 (M3 Touring) estate, including the key carbon roof, which is not available from the factory on the M3 Touring.

Apart from the roof, most of the carbon components developed for the M3 G80 sedan also fit the M3 G81 Touring. This means that the owner of the family M3 can benefit from a full range of carbon body upgrades : hood, fenders, grille, front spoiler, brake vents and aero plates. It is worth mentioning here the recently presented project of the green M3 (G80) with a carbon package by Alpha-N - many solutions from it have been transferred one-to-one to the offer for the Touring.

The Alpha-N engine hood for the M3 G80/G81 is a masterpiece – huge air outlets (significantly larger than in the standard M3 Competition hood) effectively remove heat from the engine bay, which is important when the 3.0 R6 twin-turbo engine is working hard. The hood is also lighter than the standard one and can be partially painted to achieve a two-tone effect (e.g. the central strip in the body color, the rest carbon). The sight of such a hood brings to mind the high-performance BMW M4 CSL, where each opening served a specific function – here it is similar, form is subordinated to functionality.

No less impressive are the carbon front fenders integrated with exhausts . Alpha-N followed in the footsteps of the BMW CSL – the new fenders for the M3 have vertical slots (thimbles) cut out behind the front wheels, which are responsible for dissipating hot air from the brakes and pressure from the wheel arches. These fenders are widened and give a muscular look, and at the same time lighter than the factory steel ones, which again improves weight distribution. Another stylistic touch is the insert with the emblem – here also made of carbon, it blends seamlessly with the whole (no more chrome M badge in the side “gill” – now it’s a real exhaust inlet!).

At the front, the M3 Touring will also benefit from the replacement of the kidneys (grill) . Alpha-N designed its own version of the controversial large “kidneys” – they are made of carbon fiber and a horizontal cross-piece has been added visually dividing the grills in half. This procedure makes the front of the M3 look less aggressive than the standard one (where the large black “lungs” dominate), while at the same time gaining a unique character. The carbon fiber filling gives an exclusive touch and refers to classic sports BMWs that had a cross-piece in the grill (e.g. M3 E30 DTM). Importantly, such a grill improves airflow – the factory license plate often covers the center of the kidneys, while here the central division allows you to place a possible plate lower, without blocking the flow to the radiators.

The bottom of the front bumper can be enhanced with a carbon Alpha-N splitter (versions as for the M2: Clubsport, GT or adjustable Class 3). The Alpha-GP splitter is particularly interesting for the M3 Touring, which has a unique shape with raised ends in the style of wings - it gives the front a very aggressive look and improves downforce. Carbon canards are mounted on the sides of the bumper, and brake cooling inlets (identical to those described for the M2) are mounted in the air ducts. The latter, although small, help maintain lower brake system temperatures during heavy braking, which may be even more important in the heavier Touring.

The rear of the BMW M3 G81 Touring differs from the sedan due to its estate body – there is no typical separate boot lid, and the large rear lid lifts with the window. Alpha-N does not offer (at least for now) a full carbon boot lid for the Touring (this would be technically difficult, although it is possible in the future), but instead you can try adding a roof spoiler . The M3 Touring has a small spoiler at the top of the lid from the factory – tuners will probably develop a larger version of it in carbon to extend the roofline and increase downforce. Even if Alpha-N does not have it in its catalog, the aftermarket will quickly fill this gap. However, the estate already fits the carbon rear diffuser from Alpha-N (taken from the G80 sedan) – mounted in the bumper around the exhausts, with sharper edges and larger ribs directing the airflow. Such a diffuser, together with the optional aeroblades on the rear bumper, completes the aerodynamic package , providing more decisive downforce on the rear axle and improving the appearance (the rear appears wider and lower).

Suspension and Performance – Touring Ready for the Track

Mechanically, the M3 G81 draws heavily on the M3/M4 solutions. This means that the 510 HP S58 engine (in the Competition version) has a huge amount of tuning potential – there are known cases of increasing the power of these units to 600-700 HP on stock turbochargers. However, Alpha-N does not interfere with the electronics or engine equipment in its program for the M3 (at least not yet). Instead, the focus was on unlocking the potential by improving the hardware around it. The aforementioned improvements to the intake (airbox, air ducts) or cooling (hood outlets, brake lines) mean that even the stock 510 HP can be used more effectively under heavy load conditions (e.g. no power drops due to overheating). If the user wants to increase the power over time by tuning the ECU or changing the turbines, the infrastructure in the form of efficient air and brake cooling will be ready for this.

The key aspect of tuning the M3 Touring, however, is the suspension and handling . By definition, the estate is slightly heavier and higher than the sedan, which does not work in its favor on the track. Alpha-N approached the subject comprehensively - in the aforementioned M3 G80 show car, cooperation was established with Öhlins, installing a full Öhlins Road & Track coilover kit in the car. The same kit is recommended for M3 G81 owners who would like to significantly improve the driving characteristics. The Öhlins R&T suspension offers the possibility of adjusting the damping and height, which allows you to adjust the driving characteristics to your own needs. On the road - softer settings for comfort, on the track - hardening and lowering for maximum precision. Tests show that this package can reconcile fire with water: comfort in everyday driving remains at an acceptable level, and on the track the car drives much better than on the stock suspension. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, the kit is lighter than the factory one, which reduces unsprung masses and improves the suspension's response speed.

Alpha-N also recommends installing sports stabilizers and replacing the elastomeric elements (bushings) with reinforced ones to stiffen the M3 Touring suspension structure a bit without excessively compromising comfort. As a result, the modified estate car is able to match the sedan's handling, or even surpass it - after all, the weight reduction (roof, hood, rims) and improved aerodynamics give it an advantage. It is worth mentioning that the green M3 G80 from Alpha-N uses ultra-light Edelweiss LT3 rims (20" front, 21" rear) and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires - a similar configuration can be used in the Touring, which will additionally improve traction and appearance (the gold rims against the green bodywork looked stunning). Of course, the color scheme is a matter of taste, but the fact is that lighter wheels and good tires are an essential element of successful tuning for performance.

Why is it worth tuning the M2 G87 and M3 G81 with Alpha-N?

In summary, Alpha-N Performance delivers a comprehensive set of modifications for the BMW M2 G87 and M3 G81 Touring, focusing on the areas that provide the most benefits to driving enthusiasts . These are not your typical "visual" mods without a cover - on the contrary, there are specific technical improvements behind them:

• Weight reduction – carbon hoods, roofs, fenders and flaps significantly reduce the weight of the car. Every few kilograms less means better acceleration, more effective braking and agility in corners. For example, reducing the weight by ~30 kg (which is possible with a full package of carbon panels) shortens the lap time on the track and improves the everyday driving experience (the car changes direction more willingly). In the M3 Touring, the weight reduction at the top (roof) is particularly valuable – it reduces roll and improves balance.

• Aerodynamic improvements – Alpha-N spoilers, splitters and diffusers have been designed with a specific goal in mind: to increase downforce and reduce drag. More downforce at the front (splitter, canards) means more confident handling at high speeds – the front “sticks” to the road, giving the driver more confidence. Downforce on the rear axle (CSL ducktail, wings) translates into stability during fast motorway driving and sudden changes of direction. In turn, smoother flow under the car (diffuser, flat floor) reduces the buoyancy forces that normally “lighten” the car at higher speeds. In practice, an aerodynamically modified M2 or M3 holds the road better , which is felt as greater precision and safety. For fans of fast track driving, this also means faster lap times – downforce allows you to take corners at higher speeds.

• More effective cooling – this is an aspect often overlooked in tuning, but very important for maintaining performance. Alpha-N, by adding intakes in the hoods, brake channels or ventilated fenders, ensures better heat dissipation. The S58 engine is less choked by hot air under the hood, and the brakes in the M2/M3 retain their effectiveness for longer on a track day. Thanks to this , Alpha-N modifications allow not only to increase performance, but also to maintain it in the long term – the car is less susceptible to overheating or fading during intensive use.

• Quality of workmanship and appearance – finally, we cannot forget about the aesthetic and quality aspect. Parts from Alpha-N Performance are characterized by quality comparable to OEM , and often even higher. Carbon is perfectly finished, the fit of the elements is precise, and the materials are proven in motorsports. By installing such components, the owner of the M2 or M3 can be sure that they will not compromise the reliability of the car – this is important for such advanced machines. Appearance is a matter of taste, but most BMW M fans will admit that the sight of exposed carbon on the hood or roof gives you a shiver of emotion. Alpha-N modifications give these models a unique character – even against the background of other tuned BMWs, a car with a full package (carbon full bodykit ) will stand out and clearly communicate its racing ambitions.

In addition, all the described parts and Alpha-N technologies do not make the M2 G87 or M3 G81 useless "track monsters". On the contrary - properly selected, they can also improve everyday usability (e.g. Öhlins suspension provides greater comfort on uneven surfaces than the extremely stiff factory settings of the Competition). Ultimately, we get a more versatile car : faster on the track, more effective on the rally, and still comfortable on a daily basis.

Summary

Alpha-N Performance proves that the last word has not been said in the subject of tuning the latest BMW M. Both the BMW M2 G87 and the BMW M3 G81 Touring can gain a lot from well-thought-out, high-quality modifications. Carbon body elements reduce weight and add aggression, aerodynamic solutions increase downforce and stability, and refined details (such as airboxes or cooling ducts) ensure that the car can give its all without signs of fatigue. All this is presented in an attractive, unconventional style that combines aesthetics with functionality.

For enthusiasts of the BMW brand and the M2/M3 model, the Alpha-N offer is more than just tuning – it is an opportunity to get closer to the experience of driving a racing car every day. Importantly, the modifications articulated by Alpha-N are not intrusive advertising, but a real development of BMW's factory engineering . Here, attention to detail and understanding of the vehicle's mechanics are visible. It is no wonder that the company is gaining the reputation of a BMW M specialist , and its products are increasingly chosen by owners of new M2 and M3 around the world.

So if you are looking for a way to distinguish your BMW M2 G87 or M3 G81 Touring and want to feel like a factory driver - Alpha-N Performance offers solutions tailored exactly to you. This is a premium tuning that will transform a great car into a truly unique machine, capable of embarrassing many competitors on the track, while at the same time pleasing the eye and heart on every ride. In the world of tuned BMW M, the name Alpha-N will certainly become increasingly synonymous with perfection and an uncompromising approach to modification. It's time to see for yourself - the M2 G87 and M3 Touring are just waiting to spread their wings with the help of carbon works of art from Alpha-N!