BMW has announced prices for its M Performance limited-run editions of the M3 coupe and M5 supersaloon. Brace yourself: both command around a £20,000 premium over the standard versions. The M3 comes in at £74,080, and the M5 is £95,140.
How is BMW justifying an extra £20k for an M3?
Two words: equipment, and rarity. As with the M5, just 30 M Performance M3s will be made, each identified by a laser-cut ‘One of 30’ giveaway on the cabin trim. Otherwise, the mechanical package is identical to that of the M3 Competition Pack, with a 414bhp 4.2-litre V8, M DCT paddleshift transmission, and rear-wheel drive.
The price hike stems from £9790-worth of optional equipment being fitted as standard, including a Harmon/Kardon stereo, digital radio capability and adaptive headlights. Alcantara and piano wood trim also feature.
Those BMW M Performance Edition colours look rather special too…
The choice of three matt hues extend from BMW’s Individual range, with both the M3 and M5 being offered in Frozen Blue, Frozen White, or Frozen Red, the latter of which is actually a wrap covering the body.
Naturally, the interior stitiching can be configured to match the body colour of your car. Both models also receive blackened trim on the kidney grilles and wheels.
Does the M5 see any dynamic changes?
Aside from the 20-inch wheels, no – it’s the same 552bhp package as seen in CAR’s long-termer machine. However, The M5 Performance does enjoy an enormous £22,075 of extras, such as M sport seats, a powered bootlid, and darkened exhaust tailpipe finish together with the expected infotainment upgrades.
Both models are exclusive to the UK market only, and despite the hefty prices, we wouldn’t be at all surprised to see all 30 of each of these matt marvels sell out in double-quick time.