All articles tagged with #handling
Audis are known for understeer primarily due to their front-heavy weight distribution and all-wheel drive system, which favor stability over sporty oversteer. Recent engineering efforts, like active sport differentials, aim to reduce understeer, but factors like tire choice also significantly impact handling. Despite their reputation, Audi continues to improve their handling characteristics.
The 2025 Subaru WRX tS, tuned by STI, offers significant handling improvements with upgraded suspension, brakes, and steering, but maintains the same engine power as the standard WRX. It features advanced dampers, supportive Recaro seats, and a digital gauge cluster, all at a price around $50,000, emphasizing sharp chassis dynamics and driving enjoyment over raw power or visual flair.
The Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale EV weighs approximately 1,300 pounds more than its gas-powered counterpart, affecting its handling and performance. Despite the weight difference, both versions have similar acceleration and braking capabilities. The EV's torque vectoring may help minimize handling differences, but the increased weight could alter weight distribution, require unique tires, and exert more stress on the road. The original 1967 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale was significantly lighter, weighing just 1,543 pounds. However, the modern EV version maintains the name and appearance, showcasing the formula of rehashing old names on new cars.
Making modifications to your car can be tempting, but some can actually ruin your car rather than improve it. Wheel spacers can alter the relationship between the steering wheel, suspension, and tire, while race brakes may not generate enough heat for optimum performance. Cheap wheels can be weaker and heavier than flow-formed wheels, and cut springs can result in a harsh ride and damage to the underbody. It's important to choose modifications carefully to avoid ruining your car.
A recent video from a Tesla Fremont Factory watcher shows the Cybertruck's impressive turning radius and suspension tests. The all-electric pickup truck appears to be a production beta unit with all-season tires and aero wheel covers. Tesla seems to be ensuring that the Cybertruck would offer a comfortable ride, similar to other all-electric pickup trucks like the Rivian R1T and Ford F-150 Lightning.
The all-wheel drive version of the 2023 Nissan Ariya, featuring the e-4ORCE dual-motor powertrain, is finally available in the US. The Ariya e-4ORCE is rated at 389 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque, making it substantially quicker than the front-wheel drive models. The e-4ORCE system can split power front to rear, brake the wheels on one side to help settle the car when cornering, and modulate the rear motor's regenerative braking to reduce nosedive under hard deceleration. The Ariya offers a natural feel and good grip in slippery conditions, with a focus on "confidence and comfort" rather than sporty handling.