In celebration of BMW South Africa's continued presence as a local automotive producer, the brand has introduced some unique Alpina-badged models.
Related: BMW M2 coupe auto (2023) Review
Investment in the facility
BMW Group South Africa has invested R4.2 billion in its Rosslyn plant near Pretoria to produce the next-generation BMW X3 plug-in hybrid, scheduled for release in late 2024.
What is Alpina?
Alpina Burkard Bovensiepen GmbH & Co. KG, commonly known as Alpina, is a renowned German automobile manufacturing company specialising in the tuning and refining BMW vehicles. Established in 1965 by Burkard Bovensiepen, Alpina has become synonymous with high-performance and luxury enhancements for BMW cars. Unlike traditional aftermarket tuners, Alpina is now owned by BMW, and both before and after its acquisition, has enjoyed a unique relationship with BMW, as their modified vehicles are officially recognized by BMW and even carry Alpina-specific model designations.
Alpina cars are distinguished by their design elements, upgraded interiors, and tuned engines. The company's commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail has earned them a dedicated fan base, and their limited-production models are highly sought after by automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
The special edition models
Five exclusive Alpina B3 AWD units, produced to honour BMW Group South Africa's achievement, have been made available. These limited edition models, named "50 Years of BMW South Africa," feature the Alpina Green II metallic paint finish and bear distinctive anniversary logos. Recalling the historic collaboration between BMW South Africa and Alpina in the mid-1980s, which produced the iconic BMW 333i, the B3 50 Years edition boasts model-specific features, including 20-inch forged wheels and various Alpina decals such as silver lettering on the front spoiler and B3 model designation.
Inside, the theme continues with Merino Black seats with embroidered BMW Group South Africa 50th anniversary logos on the front seat headrests. Each unit is identified as one of five exclusive "50 Years an Icon, BMW South Africa" cars through a plaque on the centre console. The B3 is powered by a tuned version of the brand's turbocharged 3.0-litre, six-cylinder inline engine, now with 364kW and 730 Nm of torque. This allows for a 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.6 seconds and a 305 km/h top speed. Alpina has also fettled with the chassis, exhaust system and braking system.
Pricing
All five units have already been sold, with delivery to their owners scheduled for December 2023. The price, inclusive of Motorplan, is R 2 960 341.20.
