BMW M is closing the chapter on the sixth-generation BMW M3 CS Handschalter with what may prove to be the purest expression of the G80 platform yet. Revealed today, the limited-production 2027 M3 CS Handschalter combines the lightweight, track-focused formula of BMW’s CS models with two ingredients increasingly rare in the modern performance car landscape: a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive.
The name itself says everything. “Handschalter” is German for manual gearbox, and unlike previous CS-badged M3s, this one leans fully into analog driver engagement rather than outright lap-time supremacy. BMW says it will be the only M3 CS ever offered with a manual transmission, positioning the car as a deliberate sendoff for enthusiasts before electrification and automation continue reshaping the M division lineup.
Power comes from BMW M’s familiar twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter S58 inline-six, here producing 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. That output is routed exclusively through a six-speed manual gearbox to the rear wheels, with BMW quoting a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph when equipped with the standard M Driver’s Package.
While the powertrain may sound traditional by modern standards, the engineering underneath remains thoroughly contemporary. BMW says the M3 CS Handschalter borrows suspension hardware from the ultra-focused BMW M4 CSLwhile adding model-specific tuning for the chassis, steering and gearbox calibration. Ride height drops by 6 mm compared to the standard M3, and revised axle kinematics, bespoke spring rates and recalibrated dampers aim to sharpen steering precision and body control both on road and circuit.
Weight reduction also plays a central role in the package. Extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic spans the roof, hood, front splitter, air intakes, rear diffuser, spoiler and even portions of the interior trim. A titanium rear silencer alone cuts more than eight pounds from the exhaust system. Altogether, BMW says the Handschalter trims roughly 75 pounds compared to a standard manual M3 when fitted with optional carbon ceramic brakes.
Visually, the Handschalter stays close to the familiar CS formula but adds several details likely to resonate with longtime BMW enthusiasts. The frameless kidney grille receives red accents and pared-back horizontal bars, while yellow daytime running lights mimic the look of GT race cars. Alongside standard Isle of Man Green and Black Sapphire finishes, BMW Individual will offer two heritage colors tied closely to the M3’s history: Imola Red and Techno Violet metallic. The latter, in particular, recalls some of the most recognizable E36-era BMW M cars of the 1990s.
Inside, standard M Carbon bucket seats trimmed in Anthracite Full Merino leather receive Mugello Red accents, while M Drive Professional comes standard with drift analysis, lap timing and 10-stage traction control settings intended for track use.
BMW says production of the M3 CS Handschalter will begin in July in very limited numbers, with deliveries expected this fall. Notably, the car will be built exclusively for North America, reinforcing just how central the enthusiast market here remains for manual-transmission M cars. Pricing starts at $107,100 before destination.
The car will make its public debut at the All-BMW Petersen Cruise-In at the Petersen Automotive Museum on May 23.
