BMW is sending off the sixth-generation M3 CS with a purposeful tribute to driving purists: the 'Handschalter' package, which combines a six-speed manual gearbox with rear-wheel drive. This limited model is expected to be the last of its kind before the brand pivots to an all-electric future.
The M3 CS Handschalter is powered by BMW's iconic 3.0-liter twin-turbo S58 inline-six engine, the same powerplant that-in modified form-drove the M4 GT3 Evo to victory at the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the Nürburgring 24. BMW has drawn a direct line from its motorsport success to this road car, underscoring its racing pedigree.
While the manual M3 CS is a farewell to an era, BMW's future lies elsewhere. Next year, the automaker will unveil its first all-electric M car, a quad-motor M3 derived from the Neue Klasse architecture. Enthusiasts lament that this EV is unlikely to offer a three-pedal option.
Meanwhile, the company has been making headlines on the track. At this year's Nürburgring 24, a pair of stars emerged: Max Verstappen took a break from F1 to prove his prowess in sportscar racing, and the BMW M3 Touring-initially an April Fool's joke turned reality-impressed after qualifying 22nd and climbing into podium contention.