Two South African motoring legends return as BMW launches exclusive Homage editions

Midrand. Two South African legends are back, reimagined for a new generation. BMW Group South Africa announced the launch of the BMW 325iS Homage and BMW 333i Homage editions, celebrating the country’s proud performance heritage while making a lasting contribution to local communities.

Both models pay direct tribute to the second-generation BMW 3 Series icons that defined an era. The BMW 325iS, affectionately known as the “Gusheshe,” became a cultural symbol of aspiration, performance and style, while the BMW 333i, produced in extremely limited numbers, remains one of South Africa’s most sought-after performance legends.

Only 33 examples of each model – 66 cars in total – will be built. Each one will be sold exclusively via online auction, with all proceeds donated to charities supported by BMW Group South Africa.

Heritage redefined.

The BMW 325iS Homage is based on the BMW M240i xDrive, powered by a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine delivering 285 kW and 500 Nm of torque. Coupled with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the coupé sprints from 0–100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.

The BMW 333i Homage builds on the BMW M2, which features a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder delivering 353 kW and 600 Nm of torque to the rear wheels, accelerating from 0–100 km/h in 4.0 seconds. Both engines form part of BMW’s acclaimed TwinPower Turbo family, known for their blend of responsiveness and efficiency.

While the Homage editions remain technically stock, they carry heritage-inspired cues:

• BMW 325iS Homage: Double rear spoiler, heritage-style wheels, M Sport Pro package, M Sport seats, front splitter, armrest covered in original second-generation Überkaro tartan upholstery, black door handles, commemorative plaque (1 of 33), and colours including Mineral White, Sapphire Black, Skyscraper Grey and Fire Red.
• BMW 333i Homage: Alpina wheels, “333i Homage” decals, quad exhaust pipes, bespoke spoilers and front splitter, Carbon bucket seats, armrest covered in original second-generation Überkaro tartan upholstery, commemorative plaque (1 of 33), and colours Alpine White, Sapphire Black, Brooklyn Grey, Zandvoort Blue and Fire Red.

Icons of South African innovation.

The original BMW 325iS and BMW 333i were products of BMW South Africa’s unique autonomy in the 1980s and 1990s, a period when local engineers operated with a near skunkworks-like spirit.

• The BMW 325iS was conceived to meet Group N racing regulations, a motorsport discipline that demanded true performance credibility. Compared to other “iS” models sold in global markets, South Africa’s version went far beyond a specification upgrade, evolving into a high-performance icon with real motorsport pedigree.
• The BMW 333i was developed as South Africa’s answer to the first BMW M3, which was not offered locally. With a 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine and limited production numbers, the 333i has become one of the rarest and most collectible BMWs globally.

Both cars captured the imagination of enthusiasts and cemented BMW South Africa’s reputation for engineering ingenuity and cultural relevance.

The 2 Series Coupé: A modern successor.

The Homage editions are based on the BMW 2 Series Coupé, a model that has been widely praised for its classic three-box proportions and compact dimensions. Since its global introduction in 2022, the BMW 2 Series Coupé has been celebrated as the spiritual successor to the second-generation BMW 3 Series making it the perfect foundation for these South African Homage cars.

A tribute with purpose.

Rob Gearing, General Manager of Customer Support at BMW Group South Africa, commented: “The BMW 325iS and 333i are more than cars — they are part of South Africa’s story. The Homage editions bring that history into the present, celebrating our connection to these icons while creating a positive impact through charitable giving. It is heritage with purpose.”

Availability.

The BMW 325iS Homage and BMW 333i Homage editions will be available exclusively via online auction. Visit https://www.bmw.co.za/homage to learn about the Homage models, and to register for the auction, starting Tuesday, 21 October 2025. The reserve prices are as follows:

BMW 325iS Homage Edition – R1,435,000.00

BMW 333i Homage Edition – R 1,960,000.00