Rear-wheel drive (RWD) has unique advantages in cornering performance, but a comprehensive evaluation needs to be conducted in combination with specific driving scenarios and technical configurations. Since RWD models transmit power directly to the rear wheels, they can precisely control the power output of the rear wheels via the throttle during high-speed cornering, achieving a more natural oversteer characteristic, which makes them suitable for handling enthusiasts who pursue driving pleasure. However, the flexibility of a pure RWD layout may be limited on low-speed narrow roads or wet and slippery surfaces. At this point, the addition of an active rear-wheel steering system can significantly compensate for this shortcoming - for example, the AITO M9 reduces the turning radius of its 5.2-meter body to 10.9 meters by reversing the rear wheels, approaching the level of a midsize car. For high-performance models, RWD combined with active rear-wheel same-direction steering (such as during high-speed cornering) can enhance tracking performance, and the coordination between double-wishbone suspension and torque distribution further suppresses body roll. Currently, mainstream luxury models tend to combine RWD with four-wheel drive systems. For example, some models based on rear-drive platforms achieve front-wheel assisted steering through intelligent torque distribution, thus balancing flexibility and stability. Therefore, RWD can indeed provide purer handling feedback in sporty driving scenarios on dry roads, but the cornering performance needs to be evaluated in combination with the technical solutions of specific models.
