2027 BMW M3 CS Handschalter Manual Rear-Wheel Drive Sales Begin

BMW has unveiled a limited-production, manual-only version of its high-performance M3 CS sedan, marking a final send-off for the current generation of the model. The 2027 BMW M3 CS Handschalter, revealed ahead of its official debut in Los Angeles, will be sold exclusively in North America with production set to begin in July and first deliveries expected this fall.

The car is distinguished by its exclusive six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel-drive configuration, a departure from the automatic and all-wheel-drive setups common in modern performance sedans. While based on the CS trim, the Handschalter utilizes the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine from the standard M3, producing 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, rather than the 543-horsepower unit found in the all-wheel-drive M3 CS. BMW states the sedan can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in 4.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph with the optional M Drivers Package.

Engineers focused on reducing weight and enhancing driver engagement. The company says the model is nearly 75 pounds lighter than a standard rear-wheel-drive M3 when equipped with optional carbon-ceramic brakes, achieved through...