What is the BMW Shadow Edition trim?
Discover what the BMW Shadow Edition styling package offers, from blacked-out exterior trim to unique design accents.
)
BMW’s Shadow Edition models span several years and include a couple of different models, but are they worth the extra money?
In this guide, we compare the design-focused Shadow Edition with the similarly sporty M Sport version of BMW’s cars, highlighting some of the key differences that make a Shadow Edition car stand out.
BMW Shadow Edition styling
A BMW Shadow Edition car is a special edition model focused on bolder, sportier styling and builds on the already very popular design of the M Sport trim.
The only difference between a Shadow Edition car and the slightly cheaper M Sport is styling, and there are no performance upgrades.
Exterior design of Shadow Edition BMWs
)
Among the highlights of a Shadow Edition model are the blacked-out details, such as the gloss black kidney grilles, dark chrome exhaust pipes and black mirror caps.
Shadow Edition cars also get unique alloy wheels finished in darker colours – they’re usually black or grey, but sometimes have a two-tone effect.
To add to the moody look, Shadow Edition cars sometimes have smoked headlights and taillights and tinted windows.
BMW models available with Shadow Edition
)
The Shadow Edition trim level is a really popular option on the previous-generation F20 1 Series sold between 2011 and 2019, even though it only became available as part of a facelift in 2017.
There’s also a Shadow Edition version of the M140i hot hatch, which has even more aggressive styling on top of the performance upgrades of the ‘M Performance’ edition.
The 3 Series, in both saloon and estate formats, is the only other car to have had the Shadow Edition treatment.
If you’re after a different model, it’s worth looking at an M Sport model. They’ve been available over the years, and every recent BMW car has at least one M Sport variant.
Should I buy a BMW Shadow Edition?
)
There are a few other benefits to buying a Shadow Edition besides styling – while performance remains unchanged, you do get some more standard equipment.
Building on the M Sport model, this special edition version adds cruise control, rear parking sensors and extended interior ambient lighting.
You also get everything from the Plus package, which is available on some M Sport models, such as Harman Kardon speakers and an upgraded brake system.
When it first launched, the Shadow Edition car, including the benefits of the Plus package, cost £1,900 more than the M Sport model.
Used models are now far more similar in price, making the Shadow Edition seriously appealing.
Shadow Edition vs. M Sport design
)
Although both of these models are inspired by performance models, a Shadow Edition car adds even more style to the extremely popular M Sport model.
Other brands offer similar ‘black package’ versions of their models, like Mercedes’ ‘Night Edition’ cars, so it’s clear that people think darker accents make cars more stylish.
Compared with more basic models like SE, both M Sport and Shadow Edition models look the part. They’re ideal for standing out from the crowd without paying more to buy or run your car.