A genuine McLaren 650S GT3 steering wheel mounted on your base

The first thing that strikes you when you pick up this steering wheel is that you’re not holding a generic accessory, but a faithful replica of the McLaren 650S GT3 steering wheel, officially licensed. The 300-mm diameter, the substantial rim, and the large P and N buttons—taken directly from the real model—set the tone immediately. You’re in GT3 territory, and the steering wheel exudes the essence of a race car even before you’ve completed a single lap.

The second surprise is its lightness. For a full-size steering wheel with so many features, it remains surprisingly light—and this detail matters more than it seems. This low inertia allows the force feedback to come through without being smoothed out, so you can better feel the subtle feedback sent by the base. During our test sessions, this responsiveness gave the driving experience a lively and engaging feel.

Plastic, but plastic used wisely

Let's be clear about the materials, because that's where this steering wheel differs from the ultra-high-end models. The front and rear shells are made of plastic with a carbon-fiber-style pattern, not solid aluminum or real carbon fiber. However, the build quality is clean, there are no creaks, and the rim feels solid and somewhat substantial in the hand.

It’s the rubber grips that really make the difference in terms of feel. They provide a secure grip for the palm, remain comfortable over time, and, based on this criterion alone, are on par with significantly more expensive steering wheels. So while there’s no leather or Alcantara, the grip holds up session after session, without your hands slipping when the pressure mounts.

Magnetic palettes and dual analog palettes: a real leap forward

This is where the V2 version really comes into its own. The shift paddles feature a magnetic toggle mechanism, machined from anodized aluminum. The engagement is crisp and precise, with that satisfying little click that’s sorely missing from flimsy paddles. When entering a turn, you can downshift repeatedly with just one hand thanks to the central rocker, and the motion quickly becomes second nature.

On the back, there are also two analog paddles, which are a real asset in terms of versatility. You can configure them as clutch slip points for standing starts, as a parking brake, as a brake or accelerator, or as a free axis that can be mapped. In practice, you can execute a clean start using the bite point and then switch the same pair of paddles to another function depending on the driving discipline. Few steering wheels in this category offer this level of flexibility.

Encoders, FunkySwitch, and an OLED display—a complete cockpit

The control panel is well-equipped. It features rotary encoders, a directional FunkySwitch with built-in rotation, toggle switches, and a row of backlit buttons—all of which make life easier in VR when you can’t see your hands. The layout remains clear and logical, with the large P and N buttons conveniently positioned under the thumbs.

In the center, the small white OLED screen offers a real functional advantage. It displays the current gear during shifts, which helps you stay on top of things in the heat of the action, and also serves as visual feedback for settings, including the active mode of the analog paddles and tuning information. The resolution isn’t anything spectacular, but the useful information is right there, in the right place.

Quick-release systems and compatible mounts: What to Check Before Buying

The steering wheel attaches using Fanatec’s quick-release system—a fast, tool-free process—and can be removed with a single motion. It’s compatible with a wide range of bases in the ecosystem, from the CSL Elite and CSL DD to the Gran Turismo DD Pro and ClubSport, all the way to the Podium DD1 and DD2. This broad compatibility is one of the brand’s key selling points.

One point, however, deserves attention. On the most powerful Podium bases, unlocking High Torque mode requires using a ClubSport quick-release system in addition to the one provided, which means an extra purchase. If you’re on a tight budget, this is something to keep in mind if you’re aiming to run a DD1 or DD2 at full power.

Behind the wheel: What's different in GT3

On the track, the combination of light weight and rubber grips pays off. When entering a turn, the rim accurately conveys the moment the front end begins to grip, and the low inertia allows for immediate course correction. You turn, the car responds, and you maintain that constant connection with the front end—which makes all the difference over a long stint.

The magnetic shift paddles also change the feel of the driving experience. The crisp click allows for very quick gear changes without hesitation, and the display that confirms the selected gear helps prevent gear selection errors in the heat of the moment. During long GT3 endurance sessions, the comfortable grip and the clear layout of the controls help reduce fatigue, allowing you to finish your runs without your hands getting tense.

For whom, and at what level of the ecosystem

This steering wheel is primarily aimed at existing Fanatec users who regularly race in GT3, GT4, or LMP classes and want a more feature-rich and sophisticated steering wheel without moving into the ultra-premium category. In its price range, it’s hard to find a steering wheel that combines so many features, making it one of the brand’s best value-for-money options.

When it comes to platforms, Fanatec’s approach applies. The steering wheel works on a PC regardless of the compatible base, and console compatibility depends on the base you mount it on. You’ll need an Xbox-licensed base to play on Xbox Series and Xbox One, or a PlayStation-licensed base to drive on PS4 and PS5. This is the most important thing to check before finalizing your order, since the steering wheel alone doesn’t determine which console it’s compatible with.