Which type of ‘Steering Wheel’ is easy to drive.. Vishal digs in for comfort and safety in driving..

When talking about “different types of steering wheels” in cars, it’s important to distinguish between the steering system technology (how power assist is provided) and the physical design of the steering wheelitself (e.g., number of spokes, shape).

Here’s a breakdown of cars in India based on their steering system technology:

1. Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS)

• How it works: Uses a hydraulic pump (driven by the engine) and fluid pressure to assist the driver in turning the wheels.
• Characteristics: Known for providing more “feel” or feedback from the road, which enthusiasts often prefer. However, it’s less fuel-efficient as the pump runs continuously, and can feel heavier at low speeds.
• Cars in India (historically and some current older models/SUVs/off-roaders):
  • Mahindra Thar (older 3-door models, before Roxx): The classic Thar was known for its hydraulic steering.
  • Mahindra Scorpio Classic / Scorpio N (some variants): While many new vehicles have moved to EPS, some robust SUVs like the Scorpio Classic and certain variants of Scorpio N might still feature HPS, or at least a heavier-tuned EPS that mimics the feel.
  • Toyota Fortuner / Toyota Hilux / Toyota Innova Crysta: These robust ladder-on-frame vehicles have traditionally used HPS for its durability and better feedback, especially for off-roading or heavy-duty use.
  • Older models: Many older cars like the Honda City (older generations), Ford Ikon, Ford Fiesta (older models), Fiat Linea/Punto, and some Maruti Suzuki models (like older Swift) used HPS. Today, they are rarely found in mass-market passenger cars.

2. Electric Power Steering (EPS)

• How it works: Uses an electric motor to assist the driver. Sensors detect steering input, and the motor provides assistance based on speed and other factors.
• Characteristics: More fuel-efficient (as it only draws power when needed), lighter at low speeds (making parking and city driving easier), and allows for more customization of steering feel (e.g., light for city, heavier for highway). It can sometimes feel less connected to the road compared to HPS for enthusiasts.
• Cars in India (the vast majority of modern passenger cars): Almost all new mass-market cars, hatchbacks, sedans, and compact SUVs in India now come with EPS. This includes:
  • Maruti Suzuki: Alto K10, Swift, Dzire, WagonR, Baleno, Ertiga, Grand Vitara, etc.
  • Hyundai: Creta, Venue, i20, Grand i10 Nios, Exter, Verna, etc.
  • Tata Motors: Nexon, Punch, Altroz, Tiago, Tigor, Harrier EV, Safari EV, etc. (Note: While Safari and Harrier previously had HPS, newer iterations and EVs often get EPS for better efficiency and features).
  • Mahindra: XUV3XO, Thar Roxx, XUV700, etc.
  • Kia: Seltos, Sonet, Carens, etc.
  • Skoda: Slavia, Kushaq, Kodiaq.
  • Volkswagen: Virtus, Taigun.
  • Honda: City, Elevate, Amaze.
  • And virtually every other modern car from mainstream manufacturers.

3. Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS)

• How it works: A hybrid system that uses an electric motor to power a hydraulic pump, combining some benefits of both. This is less common in current mass-market cars in India.

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Regarding the “Steering Wheel” itself (Physical Design):

The transition in India’s automotive market has largely been from manual steering to HPS, and now predominantly to EPS, due to its benefits in fuel efficiency, packaging, and customizable driving feel.

While the underlying steering technology varies, the physical steering wheel design mostly comes down to aesthetics and ergonomics:

• Two-spoke: Less common now, but seen in older cars like the Maruti 800, and some modern Hyundai designs or even the Skoda Slavia.
• Three-spoke: The most common and popular design, found in the majority of cars across all segments (e.g., Volkswagen Virtus, Honda Elevate, Kia Sonet).
• Four-spoke: Often found in larger, more premium vehicles or SUVs (e.g., Hyundai Creta, Venue, Tucson, Tata Safari, Harrier, Land Rovers).
• Flat-bottomed / D-cut: Often associated with sportier cars, offering a bit more knee room. Found in many modern cars, from premium sedans to compact SUVs (e.g., Skoda Rapid, VW Taigun, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos).
• Yoke steering: An unconventional design, most notably seen in some Tesla models and Lexus RZ, which removes the top portion of the wheel. Not commonly found in India-spec mass-market cars.

Key Takeaways:

• HPS (Hydraulic Power Steering): More road feel, heavier, less fuel-efficient. Common in older cars/heavy-duty SUVs.
• EPS (Electric Power Steering): Lighter, more fuel-efficient, customizable feel. Dominates new mass-market cars.
• EHPS (Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering): Hybrid, less common.
• Steering Wheel Design: Mostly for aesthetics and ergonomics (3-spoke most common, flat-bottom for sporty feel).
• Your choice matters: Pick a steering that matches your driving style and needs!

In summary:

• Lightest / Easiest to turn: Electric Power Steering (EPS)
• Hardest (requires more effort, but offers more feedback): Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS)

choose your car wisely.

See you in next Blog, till then..

Stay Cool, Be Khush-haal & Keep Rocking.!!

Vishal.