Tip your hats to the M3 CS Handschalter and the M2.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn moreThe manual transmission may still be teetering on the brink of complete obsolescence, but to driving enthusiasts' relief, BMW is actually helping keep it alive. (At least here in America.)According to the latest from BMWBlog, speaking with BMW M's chief Frank van Meel, demand for the manual-equipped M2 is so strong that it has BMW rethinking its strategy. And it's all thanks to the launch of the limited-production M3 CS Handschalter.AdvertisementAdvertisementWith this demand more present than ever, it could potentially mean more three-pedal options in the near future.Thank the M3 CS Handschalter for the manual-equipped M2's successYou can apparently thank the limited appeal of the BMW M3 CS Handschalter for the manual-equipped M2's success. - Credit: BMW USAAccording to van Meel, who's citing BMW of North America's latest sales figures, specifically for the M2, more than half of the model's annual sales to date came equipped with the manual transmission. He credits the demand to the launch of the special, ultra-high-performance M3 CS Handschalter.What does BMW's larger M3 have to do with the M2's manual success? Well, it may come down to how BMW M marketed the M3 CS Handschalter.Against all odds, and even BMW's own skepticism, the manual remains alive and well. - Credit: BMW USAWhen the limited-production, track-focused M3 debuted, BMW M touted it as potentially the last new manual model to come from Munich. Such news obviously sent BMW and manual transmission fans into a frenzy.Because the M3 CS Handschalter is limited in production and very expensive, that nudged buyers to the M2. - Credit: BMW USABut because the M3 CS Handschalter isn't a high-volume model and it comes at a premium price, it's rather out of reach for most average buyers. The next logical solution: step down to the far more affordable and readily available M2 Coupe.AdvertisementAdvertisementAnd it's with this shopping logic that van Meel credits the manual-equipped M2's sales spike.Against all odds, the manual is still in demandBMW's taking note of the increased demand for manuals. - Credit: BMW USA"Rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission are the dream combination for many purists," van Meel told BMW Blog in the latest interview. "That is why we also made a limited model with a manual transmission for the U.S. Demand was enormous; the car was practically sold out immediately."Van Meel didn't say if this demand could pave the way for more potential three-pedal options. But typically, if there's enough demand for something in particular, automakers won't hesitate to meet said demand.Availability and pricingBMW M2 and its optional manual remain available for 2026 and up through the 2027 model year at local dealers. If you're interested in the new M3 CS Handschalter, you'll have to check with your local dealer about availability.2027 BMW M2 Starts at $73,600 2027 BMW M3 CS Handschalter Starts at $108,450 AdvertisementAdvertisementAbout the Author: Chris Chin is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, trucks and anything else with four wheels. He has over a decade of experience writing news and reviews but considers himself an enthusiast first, with a passion for classics and European cars. His daily driver is a 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SEL with nearly 250,000 miles (87,000 are his).Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.
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