Lenkgefühl

Lenkgefühl, literally “steering feel,” is a term used in vehicle dynamics to describe the driver’s perception of the steering system’s responsiveness and feedback. It encompasses how much steering effort is required, how quickly steering input translates into wheel motion (the steering ratio), and the torque and vibrations transmitted through the steering wheel as the tires interact with the road. A good Lenkgefühl provides predictable, linear response and a sense of connection to the road, enabling precise lane control and rapid corrections without excessive physical effort.

The concept covers several components and influencing factors. Steering system architecture (manual, hydraulic, electric power steering, or steer-by-wire) shapes feel through assist amount and feedback paths. The steering gear ratio and variable-ratio systems affect how input translates to wheel turn. Road inputs from tire-terrain interaction, suspension geometry, vehicle speed, load distribution, and tire grip all modulate felt feedback. Modern vehicles may adjust Lenkgefühl with drive modes or adaptive systems, changing assist levels, ratio, and even feedback characteristics to suit comfort, efficiency, or sport driving.

Measurement and evaluation combine subjective and objective methods. Test drivers assess feel for linearity, predictability, and fatigue, while objective metrics include torque-angle curves, self-aligning torque, response time, and steering gain. In advanced systems, electronic controls and driver-assistance features can alter or suppress feedback, making achieving natural Lenkgefühl a design challenge, especially at high speeds or in autonomous modes.