The new BMW M5 has officially launched in South Africa, bringing 441 kW and 750 N.m (courtesy of its 4,4‑litre turbocharged V8 heart) to the all-wheel-drive super-sedan party. And BMW South Africa has now confirmed that five (yes, just five) examples of the special M5 First Edition variant have been set aside for the local market.
While the “standard” (for lack of a better term) F90-generation M5 is priced from R1 762 806 (a little more than we initially reported, now that the increase in VAT has been factored in), the limited-run First Edition starts at R2 024 006, commanding a R261 200 premium over its sibling.
However, BMW South Africa told us that just five examples from the M5 First Edition’s 400-strong worldwide run have been earmarked for the local market … and each one has already been sold.
Finished in Frozen Dark Red Metallic paintwork, the M5 First Edition is fitted as standard with the BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line package, which lends a high-gloss black finish to the grille, M gills and tailpipes. In addition, this model rides on 20-inch seven-double-spoke light-alloy wheels (the standard M5 comes with 19-inch items) in black.
Inside, this limited-edition model features additional piano black trim and a plaque affixed to the centre console indicating the car’s production number (“M5 First Edition 1/400”). Leather upholstery in Smoke White with red contrast stitching is also available.
