We Rode In the Manual M3 CS — Here's What It's Really Like

BMW just revealed the M3 CS Handschalter — the only M3 CS ever offered with a 6-speed manual and rear-wheel drive, built exclusively for North America. We got exclusive access at Willow Springs with Scott from BMW NA and pro driver Samantha Tan (BMW M4 GT3) for hot laps in a pre-production car.

We cover everything: the 473 hp S58 engine, CSL-sourced dampers, bespoke suspension tuning, three tire options including Cup 2R-equivalent ultra-tracks, color choices (Imola Red, Techno Violet, Isle of Man Green, Black Sapphire), and why this car exists as a send-off for the G80 generation.

Starting at $107,100. Production begins July 2026. North America only.

0:00 Introduction
0:25 What is the M3 CS Handschalter?
0:52 RWD only — why no xDrive
1:07 Suspension & chassis differences explained
1:26 Under the hood — S58, 473 hp
2:23 Wheels, brakes & caliper options
2:50 Three tire options including ultra-track
3:08 Color options walkthrough
3:37 Carbon exterior, titanium exhaust
4:11 Interior — no options, what you see is what you get
5:15 Pricing & availability
6:01 Hot laps with pro driver Samantha Tan
7:31 Samantha's take: how it compares to other M cars
9:07 Front-end bite & rear-end balance impressions
12:42 What's next for Samantha Tan — IMSA 2026 season
14:23 Final verdict



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