By Malusi Msomi

Two of South Africa’s most iconic BMWs have been brought back to life, this time reimagined for a new generation. BMW Group South Africa has revealed the BMW 325iS Homage and BMW 333i Homage editions, both celebrating the brand’s local performance heritage while giving back to South African communities.

Each model pays tribute to the second-generation BMW 3 Series icons that shaped local car culture. The BMW 325iS, better known as the “Gusheshe,” became a symbol of aspiration and performance in the 1990s, while the BMW 333i remains a rare collector’s item, remembered for its motorsport pedigree.

Production will be limited to just 33 units of each model, and all 66 cars will be sold through an online auction. Every cent raised will go toward charities supported by BMW Group South Africa.

Heritage meets modern performance

The BMW 325iS Homage takes inspiration from the M240i xDrive and is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine producing 285 kW and 500 Nm. With xDrive all-wheel drive, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.

The BMW 333i Homage builds on the M2 platform, delivering 353 kW and 600 Nm to the rear wheels. It reaches 100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds. Both use BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology, known for combining performance with efficiency.

Each Homage edition carries distinct design touches that connect to its heritage.

BMW 325iS Homage

• Double rear spoiler
• Heritage-style wheels
• M Sport Pro package and M Sport seats
• Front splitter
• Armrest finished in original Überkaro tartan fabric
• Black door handles and commemorative plaque (1 of 33)
• Available in Mineral White, Sapphire Black, Skyscraper Grey and Fire Red

BMW 333i Homage

• Alpina wheels and “333i Homage” decals
• Quad exhausts
• Bespoke spoilers and front splitter
• Carbon bucket seats
• Armrest finished in Überkaro tartan fabric
• Commemorative plaque (1 of 33)
• Available in Alpine White, Sapphire Black, Brooklyn Grey, Zandvoort Blue and Fire Red

Honouring South African innovation

The original BMW 325iS and 333i were born during a unique period in BMW South Africa’s history, when local engineers had freedom to experiment and innovate.

The 325iS was developed to meet Group N racing regulations and evolved into a true driver’s car with genuine track credibility. The 333i, fitted with a 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine, was South Africa’s alternative to the original BMW M3, which was never sold locally.

Both cars became legends in their own right and remain a testament to South African engineering creativity.

A modern foundation

The Homage editions are based on the current BMW 2 Series Coupé, a car praised for its classic proportions and rear-wheel-drive dynamics. Since its global debut in 2022, the 2 Series Coupé has been seen as the spiritual successor to the 3 Series models of the past, making it the ideal base for these commemorative editions.

Heritage with purpose

According to Rob Gearing, General Manager of Customer Support at BMW Group South Africa, “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.”

Availability

Both the BMW 325iS Homage and BMW 333i Homage will be available exclusively through an online auction starting Tuesday, 21 October 2025. Interested buyers can register and learn more at bmw.co.za/homage.

Reserve prices are set at:

• BMW 325iS Homage Edition: R1,435,000
• BMW 333i Homage Edition: R1,960,000