By Malusi Msomi

As the venerable BMW Group South Africa commemorates its unique status as the inaugural BMW plant established beyond the borders of Germany half a century ago, 2023 has unfolded as a year of jubilant celebration. The culmination of this landmark occasion was the revelation in June 2023 of a substantial R4.2 billion investment earmarked for the rejuvenation of the Rosslyn plant, situated just outside the bustling Pretoria metropolis. The purpose of this considerable investment is to usher in the production of the next-generation BMW X3 plug-in hybrid, slated to roll off the assembly lines from late 2024.

For the aficionados of internal combustion symphonies, a noteworthy highlight lies in the production of five exclusive units of the ALPINA B3 AWD. Crafted as a tribute to the 50-year legacy of BMW Group South Africa and adorned with the company’s bespoke anniversary insignia, the ALPINA B3 50 Years of BMW South Africa edition is an automotive gem available solely within the borders of South Africa. Distinguished by the iconic ALPINA Green II metallic paint finish, this limited edition stands as a testament to the rich collaboration between BMW South Africa and ALPINA, reminiscent of the iconic BMW 333i from the mid-1980s, of which a mere 200 units were built.

The ALPINA B3 50 Years of BMW South Africa edition boasts distinctive features, including ALPINA CLASSIC 20-inch forged wheels and various ALPINA decals such as silver lettering on the front spoiler and model designation. However, the true celebration unfolds within the confines of the cabin. Immaculate full leather Merino Black seats proudly bear the embroidered BMW Group South Africa 50 Years anniversary logo on the front seat headrests. A center console plaque declares each of the five units as a cherished part of the “50 Years an Icon, BMW South Africa” legacy.

The interior’s opulence is further accentuated by typical ALPINA embellishments, featuring ALPINA door sills and an ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC sport leather steering wheel. The latter, adorned with the LAVALINA design and meticulously finished with bespoke stitching in white and ALPINA Green, is a true testament to the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship.

Under the hood, the BMW ALPINA B3 AWD houses a potent 3.0-liter, 6-cylinder inline engine, boasting two ALPINA-specific mono-scroll turbochargers. This powerplant churns out 364 kW between 5,000 and 7,000 rpm, accompanied by a peak torque of 730 Nm in the 2,500 to 4,500 rpm range. Paired with an eight-speed Sport-Automatic transmission, the ALPINA B3 achieves a 0-100 km/h sprint in a mere 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 305 km/h.

To deliver an unparalleled driving experience, ALPINA’s high-performance sport chassis and exhaust system, as well as a meticulously engineered brake system, have been integrated. The limited-edition BMW ALPINA B3 50 Years of BMW South Africa has already found its discerning owners, who eagerly await the delivery of these automotive masterpieces in December 2023.

The price, including Motorplan, VAT and CO2 tax is R 2 960 341.20