Handling

Steering and handling should make you feel secure. Responsive steering, coupled with a driver's ability to detect subtle changes in road surfaces or having a "feel for the road", help improve your driving confidence.

Factors that affect steering and handling include:

• The car's body structure - A stiff body structure results in improved handling. Passengers also enjoy a quieter ride, due to reduced squeaks and rattles.
• Suspension type and tuning - Although there are several designs and calibrations, most standard suspensions will satisfy the majority of customer needs and requirements. The exception would be those drivers who want a sportier feel or who do frequent towing. (If you fall into this category, you may want to look into getting a firmer suspension.)

Four-wheel Independent Suspension

You may come across the term "four-wheel independent suspension". If your vehicle includes this technology you'll enjoy improved ride comfort and better suspension control, particularly on rough or uneven surfaces, and reduced vehicle "unsprung" weight at the rear axle, for improved handling.

Wheel Size

Wheel size can also affect your vehicle's performance. The wheels that come standard on a car are sized to deliver satisfactory performance and to optimize fuel efficiency under most driving conditions. Larger wheels - often available as an option - can offer improved handling and styling, but in some cases at the expense of fuel efficiency and sometimes ride comfort.