Verstappen calls this car setup ‘boring, anti-driving’: It’s the one most Indians drive!

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen is known for his aggressive driving on the track and his equally direct opinions off it. Now, the Red Bull Racing driver has stirred up conversation among car lovers worldwide. Particularly in India after dismissing a type of car that most of us own.In a recently surfaced video that has been making rounds on social media, Verstappen was asked whether he enjoyed driving cars with front-wheel drive. The Dutchman didn’t hold back. “No, I think it’s really boring. For me, it’s just like, anti-driving, you know? … I drove it sometimes on the simulator as well. For me, it’s like the worst thing ever,” he said with a laugh.
Why if FWD so common in mass market PV segment?
Front-wheel drive is a design where the engine sends power only to the front wheels. It’s the most common drivetrain in mass-market cars because it’s cheaper to manufacture, offers better fuel efficiency, and frees up space inside the cabin. This is why the majority of cars sold in India (from budget hatchbacks to popular compact SUVs) rely on this system.
For most city drivers, FWD cars tick all the right boxes. They are easy to handle in traffic, economical to run, and offer stable performance in everyday conditions. However, for driving enthusiasts, the experience is less exciting. Compared to rear-wheel drive cars, FWD models often lack the same level of steering feel, weight distribution, and cornering balance. This is why high-performance sports cars, including those used in Formula 1, almost always use RWD.Stay tuned to TOI Auto for latest updates on the automotive sector and do follow us on our social media handles on Facebook, Instagram and X.