We live in the Golden Age of the Automobile. Today’s cars are faster, safer, and more reliable than ever before. It’s ironic that the news is full of stories about the approach of autonomous vehicles. Just when cars get really great, they’re ready to get rid of drivers.
Before that happens, the car makers continue to push the boundaries of performance with their new vehicles. In order to show off how great their cars are, many manufacturers have set up performance driving schools, either on their own or in partnership with established tracks and programs. Many include an introductory performance driving course with the purchase of a new vehicle, while most offer courses for purchase to prospective buyers. They figure that once you’ve spent some time exploring the limits of their high-performance models, you’ll want to buy one of your own to exploit your newly earned driving skills.
I highly recommend taking a performance driving class to everyone who can afford it, whether you plan to buy a high-performance car or not. First of all, it’s a blast, and most programs have an introductory course that costs less than $1,000, including the use of a program car. You’ll get to drive on a track with a pro driver by your side, and you’ll learn more about driving and vehicle dynamics than you could ever pick up in a lifetime of street driving. The coaching will make you a better driver in your real life, as you’ll know more about what your car is doing and how to control it. You’ll also develop an instant respect for the skill that it takes to be a pro driver. You’ll discover that a car can turn and brake way better than you thought, as long as it gets the right inputs from its operator at the right times.
Performance driving is not racing. It is learning how to get the most out of a car within its limits and within the limits of your skills. You can spend a lifetime honing your driving skills without ever entering a competitive driving event, and have a very fulfilling time doing it. If you feel compelled to race, you can take your performance driving skills to the next level and enter a racing class.
If you’re considering buying a high-performance vehicle, or if you’ve recently bought one, you owe it to yourself to experience the full capability of your car in a safe, supervised situation. It doesn’t get any better than at the track with pro driver coaching. There’s no cross-traffic or oncoming cars to worry about. The track will be smooth and well-maintained, with no potholes or unexpected obstacles. You’ll be able to drive a well-tuned car on proper track tires, and you’ll be wearing appropriate safety gear. Once you have proven your skills to your instructor, you’ll be free to experience triple-digit speeds down the straightaway, without fear of losing your driver’s license. You’ll have fun, build skills, and capture memories that will last a lifetime.
Programs are held all across the country, usually at established race tracks and road courses. A few manufacturers have dedicated proving grounds and courses exclusively for their brands. Here’s a list of some of the top programs, along with links to their websites:
Aston Martin: Aston Martin Art of Living
BMW/Mini: BMW & Mini Performance Driving Schools
Cadillac: Cadillac V-Performance Driving School
Dodge SRT: Bondurant Racing School Dodge SRT Experience
Ford: Ford Performance Racing School
Jaguar: Experience Jaguar
Mercedes-Benz: AMG Driving Academy
Porsche: Porsche Experience Centers
Why not make a vacation out of it? With tracks and programs all over the country, you’re sure to find a Best Western® Hotels & Resorts location nearby.