Rear Active Steering... opinions, feelings, thoughts?

[MrSteak]

Quick question… “Rear active steering” on the 06’ G35 coupe, should I get it or not?

I’ve done a LOT of homework on the G35 coupe since I’m looking into one in the next few months. But the only thing I can’t decide on is the Rear active steering option ($750). I’ve read a lot about the system, but can’t decide on it. (Or if I should just get some springs, or a sway bar instead?)

I’m just looking for feedback from people who have dealt with this system or have any insight about it. I’ve heard that it’s good for high speed handling, and cornering in general. But then again, I’ve heard that it feels “weird”, it feels too much like an artificial driving aid, and that it would be bad for drifting. (Not that I really care about “drifting” but I wouldn’t want it to impede on the characteristics of a RWD car.)

[C-Kwik]

In a quick search, I didn't see any specific information about what it does and when. I'd speculate it's not too far off from the older Nissan HICAS systems. It will probably be more of an active rear toe adjustment as opposed to steering. The HICAS system turned the rear wheel slightly to effectively create toe out when you initially turn teh steering wheel on the outer rear wheel and then transition to toe-in shortly afterwards. The concept was to create quick-turn-in initially, then make the car more stable as you settle into the turn. I'd imagine the new system is similar, perhaps with some improvements. I have no experience with it personally so I'm notsure howit actually feels driving it...

[MrSteak]

Thanks for the input... how does your G35c handle at the limit and during hard cornering?

As far as the 'RAS' goes, I’ve read that it only kicks in at speeds over 30mph, and basically turns the rear wheels up to one degree to aid in the cornering. Also it’s supposed to help high speed maneuverability. (Since I read that earlier G35c’s would have issues with the “emergency lane change maneuver”, and “handling at the limit”.) So I’m assuming that this was just an option to combat those issues.

I’d just like to know if it’s more of a driver’s aid or a performance option. I don’t think I need things to help me drive, but if it’s a performance thing that will aid in cornering and not take away from the RWD characteristics then I’m all for it.