Electric Cars

This detailed report highlights a unique opportunity to acquire a truly special vehicle: a 2019 Volkswagen Golf R, part of the exclusive 'Spektrum' program. This particular car distinguishes itself as the only one of its kind in the United States to feature the striking Bordeaux Red Pearl paint, making it a highly coveted item for collectors and enthusiasts. The 'Spektrum' initiative, launched for the final production year of the seventh-generation Golf R, offered customers a palette of 40 distinctive colors. Each of these rare models, including the one discussed, came with a personalized postcard from Volkswagen's Spektrum Product Manager, Megan Closset, further cementing their unique status. These cars were not merely mass-produced; they underwent a specialized hand-painting process in Wolfsburg, Germany, setting them apart from standard models. With a limited production run, these vehicles represent a significant piece of Volkswagen's heritage and a promising investment due to their appreciating value.

For the 2019 model year, Volkswagen celebrated the conclusion of its seventh-generation Golf R by introducing the 'Spektrum' color option. This exclusive offering allowed buyers to select from 40 unique colors for an additional $2,500. Of the 4,223 Golf R units produced that year, only 199 were 'Spektrum' editions, rendering them exceptionally rare. The car currently available through 'Bring a Trailer' is a prime example of this rarity. Its original owner in Texas has kept it meticulously, and it boasts approximately 34,000 miles on the odometer. What makes this specific Golf R particularly noteworthy is its Bordeaux Red Pearl finish, confirmed by Megan Closset's accompanying note as the only one in the US with this exact shade.

Beyond its distinctive paint, the car features OEM black 19-inch alloy wheels and a sleek black interior accentuated by white stitching, aligning with the darkened trim found on all Mk7.5 Golf R models. Under the hood, a potent turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 288 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a dual-clutch automatic transmission. While a manual option might be preferred by some, the automatic gearbox enhances the car's standard all-wheel-drive system, providing seamless power delivery and impressive acceleration. The historical context provided by the postcard and paint chip from Closset adds another layer of authenticity and value to this already unique vehicle.

The scarcity of 'Spektrum' Golf Rs, with fewer than 600 units in existence globally (including Canadian e-Golfs), directly impacts their market value. Recent sales figures underscore this trend: a 'Spektrum' car fetched over $45,000 in April, surpassing its original MSRP, and another with higher mileage sold for nearly $37,000 last year. These figures indicate remarkable value retention and appreciation, a rarity in the automotive market. This unique value proposition stems from the cars' limited availability, their specialized production process, and their place in Volkswagen's storied history. For collectors and enthusiasts seeking a distinctive vehicle that promises both a thrilling driving experience and potential investment growth, this Bordeaux Red Pearl Golf R stands out as an exceptional choice.

The 'Spektrum' program symbolizes a significant chapter in Volkswagen's legacy, offering enthusiasts vehicles that combine performance with unparalleled exclusivity. This particular Golf R, a one-of-one in its specific color for the US market, is poised to attract considerable interest. Despite the absence of a manual transmission, its extreme rarity and historical significance are expected to draw a wide array of buyers, from dedicated Golf aficionados to serious car collectors. Given its unique attributes and the appreciating trend of 'Spektrum' models, this hot hatch presents an extraordinary opportunity for the right individual.

BMW is poised to usher in its \"Neue Klasse\" era, beginning with the highly anticipated iX3, an all-electric SUV that is set to redefine the brand's aesthetic and technological direction. As BMW transitions toward an electrified future, a significant development has emerged regarding the nomenclature of its high-performance M division vehicles. Unlike some electric models that integrate the 'i' prefix into their names, the performance-oriented electric M cars will steadfastly retain their traditional badging. This strategic decision underscores BMW's commitment to preserving the distinct identity and heritage of its celebrated M line.

BMW's Electrifying Future: Upholding M Identity in a New Era

In a noteworthy disclosure, information surfacing from the Bimmerpost forum, subsequently verified by a Motor1 insider, confirms that BMW's electric M performance vehicles will not adopt the 'i' prefix. For instance, the formidable performance iteration of the forthcoming iX3 electric SUV will continue to proudly bear the moniker 'X3 M'. This stands in contrast to M Performance models, which are expected to maintain the 'i' at the beginning of their designations, as exemplified by the 'iX3 M60 xDrive' nameplate. This naming convention reinforces the unique positioning of the full-fledged M cars within BMW's electrified portfolio.

The journey towards these electric M powerhouses is a meticulous one. While the standard iX3 is slated for its grand unveiling next month in the vibrant city of Munich, with its arrival in the United States anticipated in early 2026, the dedicated production of the electric M performance models is not projected to commence until sometime in 2027. This timeline aligns with previous assertions made by Frank van Meel, the esteemed head of BMW M, who in 2023 emphatically stated that the 'i' and 'M' designations would never be combined on the same vehicle. Despite the prior trademarking of the 'iM3' name, it appears this particular designation will remain in the realm of concepts rather than reaching production.

Furthermore, enthusiasts of traditional internal combustion engines can take heart. BMW has recently reaffirmed its commitment to the venerable inline-six and V-8 engines, ensuring their continued presence within the M car lineup. These powerplants have undergone necessary updates to comply with more stringent Euro 7 regulations, signaling BMW's intention to sustain their legacy in future M performance vehicles alongside the emerging electric offerings.

From a journalist's perspective, BMW's decision to maintain the traditional 'M' nomenclature for its electric performance vehicles is a shrewd move that resonates deeply with brand loyalists and performance enthusiasts alike. In an rapidly evolving automotive landscape, where electrification often introduces new naming conventions and a departure from heritage, BMW's approach provides a reassuring sense of continuity. It suggests that while the powertrain may change, the core essence and exhilarating performance associated with the 'M' badge will remain uncompromised. This strategy could serve as a model for other legacy automakers navigating the transition to electric, proving that innovation doesn't necessarily demand a complete severance from a brand's storied past. It's a testament to BMW's understanding of its brand identity and its commitment to delivering an authentic M driving experience, regardless of the propulsion method.