Final G80 BMW M3 Goes Manual with the CS Handschalter

BMW has announced a special edition to mark the end of the current G80-generation M3. The new model, named the M3 CS Handschalter, will be offered exclusively in the United States market. Its primary feature is the inclusion of a six-speed manual gearbox, a significant detail for driving purists, as it pairs the lightweight CS package with a three-pedal setup.

Performance and Drivetrain

The M3 CS Handschalter is based on the track-focused M3 CS, but with key changes to its powertrain. While it uses the same turbocharged straight-six engine and titanium exhaust system, its power output is rated at 473 horsepower, a reduction of 69 horsepower compared to the automatic M3 CS. This adjustment is a deliberate measure by BMW's M division to ensure the long-term reliability of the manual transmission, which has a lower torque capacity than the eight-speed automatic.

M3 CS Handschalter drivetrain snapshot

Feature	M3 CS Handschalter	Reference point
Transmission	Six-speed manual	Eight-speed automatic in M3 CS
Power output	473 hp	69 hp less than automatic M3 CS
Driven wheels	Rear-wheel drive	Standard M3 CS uses all-wheel drive
0-60 mph	4.1 seconds	Still positioned as a high-performance variant
Top speed	180 mph	Electronically limited

This model sends all its power to the rear wheels, unlike the all-wheel-drive system found in the standard M3 CS. Despite the lower power figure, performance remains strong. The vehicle achieves a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 180 mph.

Chassis and Design

Following the CS formula, the Handschalter benefits from a weight reduction of 20 kg compared to a standard M3. This is achieved through the use of carbon fiber components, including the roof, hood, and interior elements. Opting for the available carbon-ceramic brakes reduces weight by an additional 14 kg.

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What defines the CS setup

BMW combines weight saving, suspension tuning, and distinct visual details to separate the Handschalter from a standard M3.

Weight reduction

Carbon fiber parts in the roof, hood, and cabin trim cut 20 kg compared with a standard M3, while optional carbon-ceramic brakes remove another 14 kg.

Chassis tuning

Stiffer dampers, springs, and anti-roll bars are paired with a ride height 6 mm lower than the M3 Competition for a more focused track setup.

Visual identity

The package adds yellow daytime running lights, exterior stripes, carbon fiber bucket seats, and paint choices including green, black, red, and purple.

The chassis has been tuned for track performance, featuring stiffer dampers, springs, and anti-roll bars. The car sits 6mm lower than the M3 Competition, contributing to a lower center of gravity. Visually, the CS package includes distinctive yellow daytime running lights, exterior stripes, and carbon fiber bucket seats. Paint options include green, black, red, or purple.

Market Position and Future Outlook

Priced from $103,750 in the US, the M3 CS Handschalter is a limited-production model with no current plans for a European release. The M3 and M4 have been sold exclusively with automatic transmissions in the UK since 2020, making this manual variant a notable exception for the American market.

The introduction of this model also signals a shift for the M3 nameplate. The next generation, expected in 2025, will introduce a fully electric version for the first time, which will be sold alongside an updated petrol model. The electric M3 is projected to have a power output exceeding 1,000 horsepower from a four-motor system, representing a new direction for the iconic performance sedan.