BMW Announced Six New Edition 100 Jahre Nurburgring Models

BMW is celebrating the Nurburgring track anniversary with new models that may bring manual gearboxes back to the UK.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Performance Vehicles

BMW Announced Six New Edition 100 Jahre Nurburgring Models

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Would you prioritize a manual transmission when choosing your next high-performance vehicle?

BMW has unveiled six new Edition 100 Jahre Nurburgring vehicle models to mark the 100th anniversary of the historic race track. The collection includes the M2, M3 saloon, M3 Touring, M4 Coupe, M5 saloon, and M5 Touring.

Why it matters

For enthusiasts, these models mark a significant shift by potentially reintroducing manual transmission options to the UK market for the current generation. These vehicles celebrate the century-long legacy of the Nurburgring Nordschleiffe race circuit.

The new range encompasses 6 models, including the M2, M3, M4, and M5 variants, celebrating 100 years of the Nurburgring Nordschleiffe. While the US received the M3 CS Handschalter earlier in 2026, these new editions are targeted at bringing manual options back to UK buyers.

The players

BMW

A German luxury automaker known for its performance-oriented M-series vehicles and a long history of engineering development on the Nurburgring track.

The details

BMW has released images indicating that the M4 Coupe version of the new edition features a manual gearbox. This is a notable departure for the UK market, where current M3 and M4 models have been limited to eight-speed automatic transmissions. However, the plug-in hybrid M5 and M3 Touring models in this range will remain exclusively automatic.

BMW released the M3 CS Handschalter in the US market during 2026.
The 100 Jahre Nurburgring model range was officially announced in September 2026.

The Home Front

This move signals a shift in the performance vehicle landscape by revisiting manual transmission availability for the current generation of M cars. It follows the precedent set by the F80 and F82 generations, which were the final iterations to offer manual gearboxes in the UK.

If you are a collector or performance enthusiast in the UK, keep an eye on upcoming dealer allocations to confirm if a manual transmission model will be available in your area. Review your current vehicle's service documentation and maintenance schedule to ensure your existing garage is ready for a new addition.

The takeaway

The 100 Jahre Nurburgring collection highlights how manufacturers cater to enthusiast demand by reviving classic features like the manual gearbox. Prospective buyers should confirm transmission specifications with a local dealer before placing an order.