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Starting under $80,000, this is the brand's cheapest model that can be equipped with rear-axle steering
by Dimitar Angelov on August 13, 2024, 11:30Porsche cars are some of the most well-engineered performance vehicles in the business. Each new model packs an extensive array of hi-tech features, aiming to make the Porsche driving experience more effortless. Those looking for the thrill of a high-revving Porsche 718 or 911 are all about the visceral driving experience, there are others looking for a more relaxed experience while still enjoying the performance that comes with a Porsche car. The company’s rear-axle steering is optional on all 911 and Panamera models, with some of the higher-end variants getting it as a standard feature. The first Porsche to feature rear-axle steering was the 2013 Porsche 718.
That said, Porsche started thinking about rear-axle steering back in the 1970s, when the Porsche 928 was in development. Interestingly enough, Porsche used two Opel Diplomats, one of which fitted with two steering wheels, in order to compare the dynamic characteristics of both. Porsche names this early iteration of rear-axle steering "The Weissach axle”. The system didn’t make it to production back then, likely, due to Porsche’s financial state at the time. That said, the system is available on most Porsche models, including the Macan, which also happens to be the most affordable Porsche to feature rear-wheel steering.
Porsche Macan EV rear-axle steering price
Since its inception in 2014, the Porsche Macan became the brand’s popular entry-level model. For 2024, the compact SUV goes all-electric although you can still buy internal-combustion-powered variants... for now. The starting price for the 2024 Porsche Macan EV is $75,300, which is way below the base 911 and even the base Panamera variants - $122,095 and $104,795 respectively. Some Macan EV variants like the S and Turbo, come standard with rear-wheel steering.
For the rest, Porsche’s rear-axle steering is an option that costs around $2,500 extra. Keep in mind that the price varies between the different models, except those that have the system as standard. Moreover, choosing Porsche’s rear-axle steering from the configurator automatically ticks Porsche’s adaptive suspension management (PASM). You can still have PASM with either steel-spring suspension or air suspension. That said, PASM is an option that can cost up to $8,000, which means, unless your Porsche has rear-axle steering as standard, you may have to spend upwards of $10,000 to get the rear-steering axle and Porsche’s active suspension management.
How does Porsche rear-axle steering work?
Porsche’s rear-wheel steering axle is an electronically controlled system that relies on a forged aluminum fork with sensors, attached to the rear-suspension tow arm. There is a belt-driven index sensor at the back of the system housing that decides which way to turn the wheels. This is done through an electro-mechanical actuator on both sides.
At speeds of up to 30 mph (51 km/h), the rear wheels would turn opposite to the front. At any speed between 30 and 50 mph, the rear wheels turn either in the same direction as the front wheels or the opposite, depending on what the system decides the car needs. At speeds above 50 mph, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels. At slow speeds, the rear wheels would turn up to 2.8 degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheels. At high speeds, the rear wheels turn up to 1.2 degrees in the same direction as the front. Granted, those values are true for the Porsche Taycan. We are yet to see the numbers for the Porsche Macan EV. In the heavyweight, 2024 Porsche Panamera, rear-wheel steering makes a huge difference. It can turn up to 1.5 degrees in the same direction as the front wheels, at speeds of over 43 mph (70 km/h).
On paper, there are rear-axle systems with greater capabilities. Mercedes-Benz’s rear-steering axle can turn up to 10 degrees. The aforementioned, 2.8 degrees of steering, reduces the turning radius by 600 mm (23.6 inches), making a relatively large car feel smaller and nimbler. If we don’t count the brand’s more mainstream offerings, Porsche sports cars are all about being as light as possible. The Porsche 911’s T-Hybrid powertrain is a perfect example and even the heaviest Porsche 911 weighs well below 4,000 pounds.
Pros and cons of Porsche’s rear-axle steering
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reduced turning radius | "Synthetic" driving feel (claimed by some owners) |
| Negates oversteer | Unknown long-term reliability |
| Lightweight - adds only 22 lbs (992 RAS) |
Dimitar Angelov
Dim has been an automotive journalist since 2014. Although he is interested in all things automotive, his main interests revolve around, Asian, classic, and sports cars. He is particularly fond of Porsche sports cars as well as JDM classics from Toyota, Nissan, Honda, and others. Dim operates mainly from Bulgaria, but can, occasionally, be seen attending Europe's most reputable Auto shows, and events. Read full bio
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