Discussing car prices isn’t merely about the cheaper US-tagged BMWs compared to their German counterparts. Take the new M2, for example. Priced at €72,800 in Germany, it’s a steal in the US at $62,200. Now, let’s pivot to Singapore. Here, this rear-wheel-drive coupe commands a supercar price. Why? Singapore’s taxes and fines are among the world’s highest.
This week, BMW’s regional division unveiled a petite sports car priced at S$499,888. This translates to nearly $372,000 – quite a figure! For now, only the eight-speed automatic M2 is available. However, within months, a few six-speed manual versions will roll out. It’s unclear if the manual will cost more. But, at such a hefty price, what more could surprise us?
Two other recent BMW models with sky-high price tags in Southeast Asia include the $276,000 3 Series Touring 330i M Sport and the $420,600 M4 Competition 50 Jahre. As for the XM, the exclusive M version comes at a staggering $747,000. Of course, the Label Red edition is set to top that considerably.
Sky-high taxes in Singapore make it a challenging market for BMW. The M2 CS may even hit the $400,000 mark in around two years – enough to buy a fully-loaded Ferrari 296 GTB today. BMW Singapore reports the regular M2 is now at dealerships nationwide. Customers can choose from five popular colours: Alpine White, M Brooklyn Grey, Black Sapphire, M Toronto Red, and exceptional Zandvoort Blue. The interior comes in black or cognac Vernasca leather. It sports 19- or 20-inch 930 M wheels in all-black or two-tone.