BMW Launches A Special Edition M3 CS “Handschalter” Edition

BMW has chosen to honour the present M3’s impending demise by releasing a CS version that is specifically targeted at purists. Known as the Handschalter, it resembles any other M3 CS but is the only one with rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox. A few years ago, BMW added the Handschalter emblem on the Z4 M40i, which also had a stick shift.

The official debut of the M3 variant is set for May 23 at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, and it will begin production in what the company refers to as “extremely limited numbers” in July.

This model is powered by BMW’s 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, just like the standard M3 CS. Nevertheless, the Handschalter has been limited to 473 horsepower, the same as the ordinary rear-wheel-drive M3, whereas the standard variant produces 543 horsepower. Additionally, the all-wheel drive CS’s torque has been reduced from 479 lb-ft (650 Nm) to 406 lb-ft (550 Nm).

This version is the lightest M3 in the lineup, weighing over 75 lbs (34 kg) less than a conventional rear-wheel-drive M3 when equipped with the optional M carbon-ceramic brakes, although it’s unfortunate to see power decreased so dramatically. With a new gearbox and rear-wheel drive, the modifications don’t end there.

For this version, BMW has adjusted the steering, chassis, and engine response. It also employs the same shocks as the M4 CSL and has unique wheel camber adjustments. The maximum speed is 180 mph (290 km/h), and the run to 60 mph (96 km/h) takes 4.1 seconds.

Inside and out, the carbon-fibre catalogue is identical to what is available for the regular CS. This includes standard M Carbon bucket seats inside and carbon on the top, hood, front splitter, mirror caps, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler. Imola Red and Techno Violet metallic are optional and cost $4,500 each, buyers can purchase the vehicle in either Isle of Man Green or Black Sapphire metallic for free.

The 2027 BMW M3 CS Handschalter, which will only be available in the USA and Canada, will retail for $107,100 plus a $1,350 shipping and handling cost. In contrast, the entry-level 473-hp 2027 M3 sedan costs $79,300, while the final-year 543-hp 2024 M3 CS sedan costs $118,700.

• Also See: The Last Example Of The BMW Z4 Has Rolled Off The Magna Steyr Assembly Line