BMW’s color palette rarely disappoints. While an ever-growing portfolio of special colors from BMW Individual is partly responsible, the color palette of the “standard edition” leaves little to be desired. And while we don’t think the Individual catalog is necessarily overrated, we do think there’s more than enough magic in some standard BMW paint finishes to warrant calling them underrated. While classic shades like Carbon Black and Alpine White always have a place in our hearts, there are some modern colors that we feel just don’t get the love they deserve.
Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic
Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic certainly wasn’t a personal favorite when it came out, which was the case with the G20 BMW 3 Series circa 2019. It was available simultaneously on the iX and later on the X7 and X5. To say it’s not the most aggressive color is an understatement. But over time, and especially after the introduction of the lighter Cape York Green, Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic has started to look deep and unique. Blue Ridge looks great, especially on the iX. Even if the color resembles something Ford and Chevy did in the early 1990s – and hasn’t aged particularly well – if anything, that might add to its charm. The subtle metallic flakes also help the finish stand out.
Storm Bay Metallic
Storm Bay Metallic appeared for the first time on, of all things, the revised F48 BMW X1. It quickly spread through the lower echelons of BMW’s lineup, appearing on the M235i, M135i, and the new U11 BMW Things get even more exclusive when you realize it’s a $1,950 option. Considering that the lower price is part of the appeal of 1 and 2 Series vehicles, Storm Bay Metallic isn’t a common choice. However, when selected, its fantastic gray-blue hue surpasses almost every other gray and silver. Perhaps an exception could be made for Dravit Grey, whose metallic paint features similar gold tones. But this color seems to be much more common than Storm Bay Metallic.
Manhattan green metallic
Manhattan Green Metallic was one of my favorites when it was first introduced in the G05 X5, and at least someone has to agree with me since it’s still available on the SUV to this day. Unfortunately, it’s limited to the X5 and X6 – you can’t even order the color for their respective M-series counterparts anymore. BMW’s greens tend to be closer to true green than Manhattan’s, but the dusty look only adds to the appeal when you get closer and realize it’s actually a metallic paint job. Combined with the M Sport package, the X5 and X6 appear downright menacing, but only slightly subdued. In this respect it is the perfect BMW color.
Sparkling copper metallic
As far as I know, Sparkling Copper Metallic has only appeared as a regular color option on the 7 Series and X7. Technically it’s available elsewhere in BMW’s Individual catalog, but that doesn’t exclude it from the list in our eyes. Although availability is limited, its shine and sparkle make it one of the most brilliant “silver colors” BMW has ever invented. It’s also reminiscent of the equally gorgeous Moonstone Metallic, another special BMW paint that has been available on M and ALPINA vehicles over the years.
Aventurine red metallic
Aventurine (occasionally Aventurine) Red Metallic was seen on vehicles such as the last generation BMW 5 Series (G30) and the current generation 4 Series Gran Coupe, but today it is most commonly found on the G80 M3 and G8X M4. Occasionally also the 7 Series. However, the crimson has been somewhat underestimated in its few years on the market; It is easily one of the most unique and striking red wines on the street today. Not as bright as Vegas Red and certainly less orange than Toronto Red, Aventurine Red Metallic remains a favorite for those who want a red that almost goes under the radar until you really look at it.
