Certain models in the new car market are sold with particular specifications known as a limited edition or special edition. These particular cars are usually more expensive than more ‘standard’ versions of the same model and they’re probably only available for a limited time as manufacturers tend to make fewer of these then other specifications.
In this guide, we explain the different reasons a manufacturer may have for making a special edition specification for one of their current cars, and how they can appeal to buyers.
Why do manufacturers make special editions?
A manufacturer may introduce a limited edition for one of their cars either after a certain number of years of its production or during the launch of the car. There are several potential reasons which can explain a manufacturer’s motivation for introducing such a car to the market.
Special editions may come about as a result of a manufacturer’s tie-in with a fashion brand or other kind of company which sells products.
Alternatively, a special edition may be made by a manufacturer as a way of celebrating recent success in motorsport. It could be to just tie-in with their racing heritage or mark the anniversary for a particularly famous car or person associated with the brand.
A limited edition model may be introduced during the initial launch of a car, featuring extra kit or design features, to persuade people to pre-order one or buy it during the early days of its arrival. These particular examples usually have a name like Launch Edition or something similar. Manufacturers may make a special edition more powerful, sportier or aerodynamic than standard versions, but these are a rare case.
Carmakers may simply make a special edition for one of their cars just to add some unique exterior and interior design features, giving this specification a more unique and fashionable vibe that can add more appeal. The simple prospect of owning a model that feels more stand-out to most other examples of it can be enough to lure in additional customers.
Whatever the reasoning behind them, if you’re interested in going for one of these special/limited edition models, it’s wise to check a couple of things. First, it’s important to establish just how ‘limited’ a particular limited edition is, as some are much easier to acquire than others.
While some limited editions are built in the thousands, only a few hundred or less of other such cars may ever get built. Such cars are also likely to be more expensive than regular specifications, and the different in price usually depends on how rare they are.
The price for a special edition and the most expensive of the regular trims may be separated by a few thousand pounds or more. Carefully consider then just what the price difference is and what extras are to be gained for going for the rarer version before deciding it’s worth parting with the extra cash.
Special edition cars in the new car market nowadays can offer some really cool equipment or designs, but buying one is not a decision that should ever be taken lightly.