Just days after his split from FKA Twigs, actor Robert Pattinson has announced the purchase of a new BMW. The star, who has previously been linked to a swathe of luxury brands, has now chosen to invest in a more middle-class choice. The new vehicle is a rare treat for fans of the former Walking on the Moon star, as it is a three-pointed star model, an unlikely combination of styles.

The Cost Of A New BMW

While details of the purchase have not been shared, it has been reported that the Twilight actor spent around £31,000 (~$45,500) on the German marque. The carmaker’s base model with the same basic amenities as the latest Yacht-brand vehicle, the X3, starts at £44,000 (~$67,500). The exact make and model of the new BMW has not yet been revealed, but fans will certainly be able to tell you what it is thanks to its distinctive exterior design.

New BMW For Old Friends

The star has named his new car the ‘Mulberry’ in memory of the late Robin Mulberry, the designer who founded the British brand in 1921. The choice of the name is a subtle reference to the English village of Mulberry in Somerset. It is, however, not the first time that the Twilight actor has named a car after a person or brand. In 2018, he bought and named a BMW X7 after his late mother, Elizabeth Taylor. The actress died in February that year at the age of 89. It is also worth noting that Elizabeth Taylor’s birthday was also the day that her son, Prince Robert, was born.

There is a twist to the story of Elizabeth Taylor and Mulberry. In the 1950s, the fashion designer received a royal commission to update and modernise the uniform of the Princess Elizabeth’s Guides. The commission was fulfilled with the creation of the iconic ‘Bermuda Shorts’ that are still worn by the English girl guides today.

A Rare Combination

The 43-year old British actor is certainly not the first famous face to invest in a BMW. In fact, the German carmaker has a distinguished history of working with the rich and famous. Some of the namesakes of the BMW brand are as follows:

  • Prince Michael of Kent
  • Elton John
  • Roman Abramovitch
  • Kurt Cobain
  • Tatum O’Neal
  • Maria Menounos
  • Morgan Freeman
  • Carole Radziwill
  • Helen Mirren

This is, therefore, a rare chance for car enthusiasts to see a collection of faces that they may recognise. It is also a fantastic opportunity for BMW to expand its reach to a new audience. The designer, who is certainly no stranger to controversy, could yet again prove to be a game changer.

No Regrets

Controversial or not, the fact that the renowned fashion designer Roman Abramovitch owns a BMW is proof of the brand’s enduring appeal to the rich and famous. It is rumoured that the designer, who is now 89, bought the car back in the 1960s and has had it ever since. No regrets, it would seem, as the carmaker provides a reliable and luxurious means of transport for the elderly Abramovitch, who has a chauffeur-driven Bentley to ensure his daily transport needs.

The luxury brands with which the actor has been associated may yet earn themselves a place in his garage. Before the end of the year, he is expected to purchase a Dassault Aviation Falcon 7X for £280,000 (~$400,000) and a Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport for £340,000 (~$500,000).