The BMW 118i, 128ti and 218i have all been given the Mzansi Edition touch which includes sporty M components and contrasting trim. Here is how much they will cost in Mzansi.
This isn’t the first time BMW have dabbled with their models by adding a locally loved connotation to their nameplates in order to evoke a sense of pride and South African flavour. Last year we were treated to the Mzansi Edition BMW 3 Series and locally-manufactured X3 and this year, in similar fashion to their predecessors, comes the BMW 1 & 2 Series Mzansi Edition.
Pricing: BMW announces 3 Series Mzansi Edition
So, what is new on the BMW 1 Series and 2 Series Gran Coupé models? Starting with the 1 Series, two models have been selected to receive the lekker-local treatment; the 118i and GTI-rivalling 128ti hot-hatch. Both have been given a one over, with a BMW M Sport package that includes high-gloss Shadow Line kidney grille and frame components while the extremities have been fettled with and now boast a front spoiler attachment, side sill details and rear spoiler. The exhaust tips are finished in Black Chrome, while the BMW 128ti Mzansi Edition adds a carbon rear diffuser.
The 1 Series Mzansi Edition models are equipped with the red M Sport brake calipers which are concealed behind 18-inch alloys for the 118i and similar 19-inch derivatives for the hot hatch. Colours included in this local specification are Alpine White, Skyscraper Grey, Black Sapphire, Melbourne Red Metallic, Misano Blue Metallic while Storm Bay Blue Metallic is available exclusively on the 128ti.
Updates to the cabin include sport seats in a Trigon and Sensatec combination in black with M seat belts, BMW Live Cockpit Professional, Panorama glass sliding roof, and Hi-Fi loudspeaker system for the 118i while the 128ti adds sport seats finished in a black and red cloth combined with Sensatec.
Related: BMW X3 Mzansi Edition adds some sporty flavour
A similar approach has been followed with the Mzansi Edition 2 Series Gran Coupé considering it also includes the M Sport package with high-gloss Shadow Line details on the exterior. 19-inch rims are housed within the wheel-wells and it is available in Alpine White, Skyscraper Grey, Black Sapphire, Melbourne Red and Misano Blue.
On the inside of the Gran Coupé are black Sport seats and M seat belts, alongside BMW Live Cockpit Professional, a Panorama glass sliding roof and Hi-Fi loudspeaker.
The three editions are powered by familiar BMW mills ranging from the 103 kW, 220 N.m three-cylinder 1,5-litre unit in the 118i and 218i Mzansi Editions, to the 2,0-litre engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology in the BMW 128ti Mzansi Edition that develops 180 kW and peak torque of 380 N.m.
The BMW 118i, BMW 128ti and BMW 218i in this special edition are on sale in South Africa for a limited time only. Here is pricing:
BMW 118i Mzansi Edition – R763 872
BMW 128ti Mzansi Edition – R838 160
BMW 218i Mzansi Edition – R781 972
