BMW sends off the 6th-gen M3 CS with a manual gearbox, rear-wheel drive

As the automotive landscape evolves, the thrill of driving enthusiasts has faced significant challenges. Modern vehicles tend to be larger and heavier, while the traditional tactile controls have been largely replaced by touchscreens. The joy of manual gear shifting has diminished over the years, leaving many to lament the loss of the classic driving experience. In a noteworthy move, BMW has commemorated the sixth generation of its M3 with a special version that embraces the manual transmission. While the standard G80 M3 still offers a six-speed manual, the more potent M3 Competition and the sportier M3 CS models have only been available with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This automatic transmission, the ZF 8HP, is praised for its quick performance on the track, but for many drivers, it lacks the engagement of a traditional gear stick. Recognizing the desire for a more interactive driving experience, BMW has unveiled the 2027 M3 CS Handschalter, tailored specifically for North American enthusiasts. Priced at $107,100, this model retains the 473 horsepower inline-six engine found in the standard M3, rather than the more powerful unit from the M3 Competition. Notably, the M3 CS is lighter, shedding around 75 pounds due to features like a titanium exhaust, carbon-fiber seats, and carbon-ceramic brakes. This special edition M3 CS is distinctly rear-wheel drive, steering away from the all-wheel drive option available in the M3 Competition, and instead offers a six-speed manual gearbox. This transition back to a manual setup aims to enhance driver engagement, allowing enthusiasts to fully immerse themselves in the driving experience once more.