For experienced rally drivers, gravel stages are the most fun. This is because they require a specific driving style. WRC2 world champion Emil Lindholm has a few tips for you with the Kodiaq RS that will come in handy when driving to your cottage or when experiencing other adventures of the tarmac.
Test the surface under your wheels
Just like when driving on snow and ice, you need to know how the grip level of your tyres when driving on gravel. The harder the surface under the wheels, the easier the car will be to control. But if you're heading out on an unpaved road with deeper, softer gravel or even bigger stones, it's a good idea to slow down. You'll notice the soft gravel not only when braking, but also when cornering, as the steering wheel will feel lighter and less responsive. On such a surface and standard road tyres, your car will have a much longer braking distance than on hard gravel or tarmac.
The key is smoothness and fluidity
On gravel, your car will be less willing to turn and change direction than you're used to from a regular tarmac road. Therefore, reduce your speed when entering corners and try to brake and turn without abrupt movements. In short, you need to give the tyres more time to gain grip than on dry or wet tarmac. If you feel the car is losing grip as you go through a corner, turn a little more into the corner and give it a little more throttle. This rally trick will sometimes help the tyres regain grip and adding extra throttle will engage the all-wheel drive to help with the subsequent exit of the corner.
Use all-wheel drive
When driving on unpaved surfaces, you will truly appreciate the all-wheel drive. Especially in situations where the front tyres lose grip and the clever all-wheel drive electronics send a portion of torque to the rear wheels via the intermediate clutch. In no time at all, you'll have much more grip for exiting a corner or climbing a steep hill. But too much throttle can mean a slight oversteer. But don't worry about that. Just turn the steering wheel slightly the other way, against the direction of the oversteer and the car will quickly straighten out. What's more, the stabilization system always keeps a protective hand over you, doing its utmost to ensure a smooth and safe ride.
Watch out for ruts
When the surface softens or you see deep puddles ahead, it's best to get off the track and keep your wheels off the ruts. This also eliminates damage to your car's undercarriage. Grass or stones around you will give your tyres more grip and at the same time will give you better control of your car. If you already must drive into soft mud or puddles, it's a good idea not to slow down too much and ideally not to stop. This is especially true if you are driving on standard road tyres, the tread of which is easily sealed by mud. Caution is also advisable when descending steep hills on slippery, unpaved surfaces. But the Off-road mode will help. It can smoothly maintain speed and control wheel slip to prevent the car from sliding or spinning.
You'll find more useful tips in the video.
