The sixth-generation (G80) BMW M3 is bowing out as a special edition of the lightweight CS variant with a manual gearbox.
The BMW M3 CS Handschalter, exclusive to the US market, follows the previous Z4 Handschalter in marking the end of the line for one of the brand’s performance models with a six-speed manual.
Being based on the M3 CS, it's 20kg lighter than the standard M3 (or 34kg lighter when fitted with optional carbon-ceramic brakes) and gets a track-focused chassis set-up.
This brings stiffer dampers, springs and anti-roll bars, and leaves it sitting 6mm lower than the M3 Competition.
The Handschalter is also rear-wheel-drive, whereas the previous M3 CS was four-wheel-drive.
Although it receives the same titanium exhaust system as the M3 CS, its power output is reduced by 69bhp to a total of 473bhp.
This is because M division limits the power of its cars fitted with manual gearboxes to improve reliability. Its eight-speed automatic is more durable and can therefore handle greater loads.
Nonetheless, the M3 CS Handschalter can dispatch the 0-60mph sprint in 4.1sec and go on to a top speed of 180mph.
Completing the Handschalter package is the makeover brought by the CS package, including yellow daytime running lights, stripes and a choice of green, black, red or purple paint. Inside, it gets carbonfibre bucket seats.
Prices for the M3 CS Handschalter start at $103,750 (£77,000) in the US.
There is no indication that it could be sold in Europe. The G80 M3 and its two-door M4 sibling have been offered exclusively with an automatic gearbox in the UK since launch in 2020.
The next-generation M3 is due to arrive next year – and it will, for the first time, be available as an electric car.
The M3 EV will employ four motors for a combined power output north of 1000bhp and simulate the power delivery and noise of a petrol-engined M car to promote driver engagement.
The petrol version, meanwhile, will be a heavily updated version of today's M3, with its turbocharged straight six revised to meet the forthcoming Euro 7 emissions requirements.
BMW M sales boss Sylvia Neubauer recently told Autocar that both will be priced "in the same ballpark", adding that BMW will host events with the M3 EV in a bid to convince potential buyers to go electric.
