Not long ago, I stepped off a race track, trembling like a palsied fool, swearing (once again) to leave competitive driving to those who can do it. The car was the Mercedes Benz AMG C63, which has the most sophisticated traction control I have ever experienced. Instead of shutting down the party entirely, a sport mode lets you step the rear end out of a turn's exit--but prevents the car from spinning. As I pulled off my helmet, it occurred to me that the car is more competent than I am.
Serious drivers have always resisted the fussy interference of technology--and with good reason. Even today, a serious race car driver can beat antilock brakes with pedal pressure alone. But technology continues to improve. So along comes the Infiniti FX50 (on sale in June). Its brakes apply automatically before a collision. First it warns drivers of an impending crash, then it brakes automatically with as little as one second of response time. A distance control assist maintains safe distances between vehicles in heavy traffic.
It's a babysitter. At least, that's what I would have thought five years ago. But lap times in my own car do not improve when traction control is turned off. I do not like cars that make decisions for me--unless, of course, they happen to save my life.
Source: Automotive News
Photo: Infiniti
