by Special Edition BMWs for South Korea
BMW will release a limited series of special versions of the M5, M2, X5, and X3 models, created based on the results of a fan design contest. However, buyers in the United States will have to wait, as each of these limited-edition cars is intended exclusively for the South Korean market, where the contest took place.
Design Contest Winners
Earlier this year, the brand launched the “Create Your Own BMW Version” contest, inviting fans to vote for one of five proposed designs.
Among them, the BMW M5 in the bright Fire Orange color stood out particularly, clearly resonating with the voters. The concept received such strong support that BMW committed to producing five such cars, each costing approximately from $127,000.
This vibrant shade of orange is well-known to M series enthusiasts. It was previously used on the M3 GTS and the American version of the M3 Lime Rock Park Edition, giving it serious M division heritage.
Equipment and Other Models
The South Korean versions of the M5 will be well-equipped: a premium Bowers & Wilkins audio system, carbon-ceramic brakes, the M Driver’s package, and interior trim in Kyalami Orange color, mirroring the exterior paint.
Fans in South Korea also pushed into production two individual versions of the M2 coupe. One will be painted in Voodoo Blue, the other in Frozen Portimao Blue. BMW plans to produce only five examples of the M2 in Frozen Portimao Blue and ten in the Voodoo Blue version.
Both cars will receive a set of sporty enhancements: split 19-inch wheels at the front and 20-inch at the rear, a front carbon fiber M spoiler, M carbon fiber mirrors. Inside, the updates continue: M carbon fiber bucket seats, an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and a large number of carbon fiber elements.
The price starts at approximately $70,500 for the Frozen Portimao Blue version, while the Voodoo Blue, thanks to standard metallic paint, costs slightly less—around $69,300.
Less Flashy Winners
The other contest winners look noticeably more restrained. One is the X5 xDrive40i M Sport in Dravit Grey, and the other is the X3 20 xDrive in Dune Grey, with no significant visual differences apart from the paint. BMW will limit the production of each of these SUVs to just 30 units.
This BMW initiative clearly demonstrates the growing importance of the South Korean market for premium automakers, as well as the strength of the fan community. Creating such exclusive, limited series not only increases brand recognition but also forms a special bond with the most loyal customers, offering them unique products unavailable in other regions. Similar steps often serve as a testing ground for colors and options that may later see wider application.
