BMW to End Production of Manual‑Shift M3 by February 2027

BMW has officially confirmed that the current G80‑coded M3, the last model equipped with a manual gearbox, will cease production after the 2027 model year. The final units, including a limited‑edition M3 CS with a six‑speed manual for the North‑American market, could roll off the line as early as February 2027, after which orders will be closed.

The automaker says the next generation M3 will debut in 2028 as an electric‑only version, with automatic transmission and all‑wheel drive as standard. A mild‑hybrid or hybrid system may be used for remaining internal‑combustion variants to meet stricter European emissions rules. While the M3’s manual option ends, BMW will keep manual versions of the M4 and M2 available for a longer period.

The information was disclosed by product designer Scott Stirling during a press interview, highlighting declining demand for manual gearboxes and the high cost of developing new mechanical transmissions.