Performance Driving: Real‑World Tips to Get Faster on the Track

Ever wondered why some drivers seem to shave seconds off every lap while you’re stuck in the same spot? The secret isn’t a magic car—it’s a mix of simple habits, proper setup, and a clear mindset. Below you’ll find down‑to‑earth advice you can start using on your next track day, no matter if you drive a cheap hatch or a high‑end sports car.

Master the Basics: Braking and Corner Entry

The first place to look for time gains is how you brake. Most drivers slam the brakes late and hard, causing the car to dive and lose grip. Try the "brake‑in‑a‑straight‑line, then ease off" method: hit the brakes while the car is still pointing straight, then gently release pressure as you turn in. This keeps the front tires on the road longer and lets you carry more speed into the corner.

Next, think about where you want the car to be at the apex—the point where you’re closest to the inside curb. A common mistake is to aim for the inside line too early, which forces a tight turn and kills momentum. Instead, approach the corner wide, let the car straighten out for a split second, and clip the apex just before you start to unwind. This ‘late‑apex’ approach keeps the car balanced and helps you accelerate earlier.

Keep your eyes looking where you want to go, not at the curb. Your brain will automatically steer the car toward that spot, giving you smoother inputs and less jerky movements. Practice this on slow corners first—once it feels natural, you’ll notice it works on faster sections too.

Fine‑Tune Your Car for Better Performance

Even the best driving technique can be held back by a poorly set‑up car. Start with tire pressure. Too high and you lose grip; too low and the tire overheats. A good rule of thumb is to check the manufacturer’s pressure and then adjust a few psi lower for track use, but always test a lap to feel the change.

Suspension settings also matter. If you have adjustable dampers, make the rear a bit stiffer than the front. This reduces oversteer when you’re accelerating out of a corner. Keep wheel alignment close to zero camber for a balanced feel, then add a touch of negative camber on the front wheels to improve cornering grip.

Weight reduction is another easy win. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk, and consider lightweight floor mats instead of heavy carpet. Every kilogram you shed translates into quicker acceleration and better braking distance.

Finally, practice a consistent lap routine. Warm up the tires with a few easy laps, then set a target time and focus on one improvement at a time—maybe it’s smoother brake release or a later apex. Small, repeatable changes add up quickly.

Performance driving isn’t about flashy tricks; it’s about steady habits, a well‑tuned car, and a focus on the fundamentals. Use these tips on your next outing, and you’ll start seeing lap times drop and confidence rise. Remember: the track rewards consistency more than raw speed, so keep it simple, stay patient, and enjoy the ride.