2026 BMW 325iS Homage Edition G20

• Limited to 33 units, the 2026 BMW 325iS Homage Edition celebrates South Africa’s iconic “Gusheshe.”

• Powered by a 285 kW 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo inline-six with xDrive all-wheel drive.

• Auction proceeds will go to BMW South Africa’s supported charities.

It’s not often a car reappears as both a cultural echo and a charitable statement, but that’s exactly what the 2026 BMW 325iS Homage Edition G20 achieves. Revealed by BMW Group South Africa alongside the equally rare 333i Homage, this modern tribute rekindles one of the nation’s most beloved performance badges — the “Gusheshe.”

Born from South Africa’s vibrant motorsport culture of the late ’80s and early ’90s, the original 325iS was more than a hot 3 Series — it was a local engineering project with a cult following. In its day, it filled the gap left by the unavailable M3, giving enthusiasts something distinctly their own.

Design: Past Meets Present

From first glance, the Homage Edition feels like a respectful handshake between eras. The familiar proportions of the M240i xDrive remain, but the details carry the weight of history. A double rear spoiler and heritage-style wheels hint at its Group N racing roots, while a front splitter, M Sport Pro package, and black door handles sharpen its stance. There’s even an Überkaro tartan armrest — a small but symbolic touch, directly lifted from the E30-era interior pattern that defined the old 325iS.

Each of the 33 cars wears a commemorative “1 of 33” plaque, finished in shades like Mineral White, Fire Red, Sapphire Black, and Skyscraper Grey. The effect is less about loud tribute and more about quiet authenticity — an aesthetic only long-time enthusiasts will fully appreciate.

Performance: Familiar Firepower

Underneath the nostalgic bodywork, this is still a serious modern BMW. The 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo inline-six makes 285 kW and 500 Nm, sending power through BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The result? A 0–100 km/h sprint in 4.3 seconds — a number that puts it right in the territory of today’s M-badged machines. Yet despite the performance, the Homage isn’t about track-day credentials. It’s about legacy.

Heritage with Purpose

Every Homage Edition will be auctioned online, with proceeds donated to charity, reflecting BMW South Africa’s commitment to both heritage and community. “The BMW 325iS and 333i are more than cars — they are part of South Africa’s story,” said Rob Gearing, BMW SA’s General Manager of Customer Support.

In a market dominated by electrification and algorithmic design, the 2026 BMW 325iS Homage Edition G20 feels refreshingly human — a car built to remember, not just impress. Only 33 people will ever own one, but its meaning stretches far wider than that.

Technical Specifications

• Model Name: 2026 BMW 325iS Homage Edition G20
• Base Model: BMW M240i xDrive Coupé
• Engine Type: 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder TwinPower Turbo
• Power Output: 285 kW
• Torque: 500 Nm
• Drivetrain: xDrive all-wheel drive
• Transmission: Automatic
• 0–100 km/h Acceleration: 4.3 seconds
• Body Style: Two-door coupé
• Special Features: Double rear spoiler, heritage-style wheels, M Sport Pro package, M Sport seats, front splitter, black door handles, Überkaro tartan armrest upholstery
• Exclusive Plaque: Individually numbered “1 of 33”
• Exterior Colours: Mineral White, Sapphire Black, Skyscraper Grey, Fire Red
• Production Quantity: 33 units
• Market Availability: Exclusive to South Africa via online auction
• Reserve Price: R1,435,000
• Charitable Initiative: All auction proceeds donated to BMW Group South Africa-supported charities

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