SUVs are known for their practicality and off-road capability, but what if you want to take yours to the track? Making your SUV track-ready isn’t just about adding power – it’s about upgrading various systems to handle the increased demands of the track. Whether you’re looking for better handling, more power, or an overall improved driving experience, here’s how you can make your SUV track-ready.
1. Suspension Upgrades for Track Performance
The first step to making your SUV track-ready is improving the suspension. Stock suspension often isn’t designed to handle the demands of high-performance driving. Replacing your stock components with a performance suspension system will help improve handling, cornering, and overall driving precision.
Consider These Suspension Upgrades:
- Coilovers: High-performance coilovers like those from KW Suspensions will allow you to adjust the ride height and stiffness for optimal performance on the track.
- Anti-Roll Bars: Upgrade your SUV with anti-roll bars to reduce body roll during tight turns.
- Performance Shocks: If you want smoother handling and better control, check out Bilstein suspension options, known for their durability and track performance.
2. Boost Your Power with Forced Induction
To keep up with the competition, you’ll need to enhance your SUV’s engine performance. Adding a supercharger or turbocharger is a great way to significantly increase your SUV’s horsepower and torque, providing more power for track driving.
Top Performance Upgrades:
- Superchargers and Turbochargers: Brands like VF Engineering offer high-quality forced induction systems that can instantly increase your SUV’s power output, giving you the edge on the track.
- Exhaust Systems: Consider upgrading your exhaust with a high-performance system like those from Capristo Exhaust or IPE Exhaust to improve airflow and reduce backpressure, further boosting performance.
3. Tyres: The Key to Handling
The right tyres are critical when making your SUV track-ready. Performance tyres will give you the grip and stability you need on the track, while also ensuring safe handling during high-speed manoeuvres.
What to Look for in Track Tyres:
- High-Performance Tyres: Go for tyres designed for track use, such as those offered by Brixton Forged or Brixton Forged. These tyres provide superior grip and control at high speeds.
- Track Tyre Fitment: Make sure the tyres you choose are compatible with your SUV’s upgraded suspension and wheel sizes.
4. Upgrade the Braking System
Braking is critical for track performance. Stock brakes will likely fade under the heat and pressure of track driving, so upgrading to performance brakes is essential for safety and optimal performance.
Essential Brake Upgrades:
- Big Brake Kits: A big brake kit like those offered by Racingline will provide you with more stopping power and better heat dissipation.
- Slotted Rotors and Performance Pads: Slotted rotors help with cooling, while performance pads ensure you have consistent braking performance.
5. Reduce Weight for Better Performance
Weight reduction is an often-overlooked aspect of making your SUV track-ready. Reducing weight can improve acceleration, braking, and handling. Consider replacing heavy stock components with lightweight alternatives.
Weight Reduction Ideas:
- Lightweight Wheels: Consider swapping out your stock wheels for lightweight forged wheels like those from BC Forged, which will reduce weight and improve handling.
- Carbon Fibre Components: If you’re looking to shed more pounds, check out carbon fibre parts from Ryft or Adro. They offer everything from mirrors to body panels that will reduce your vehicle’s weight without compromising on strength.
6. Add Data Logging for Better Track Control
When you hit the track, it’s important to keep track of your SUV’s performance. Installing a data logging system like those from Garmin will allow you to monitor vital performance metrics, such as lap times, G-forces, and engine performance.
FAQ About Car Performance
What are the benefits of upgrading my SUV for track use?
Upgrading your SUV for track use can improve handling, increase horsepower, reduce lap times, and enhance driving precision. It also allows your SUV to perform safely and optimally under high-pressure conditions.
How do suspension upgrades improve track performance?
Suspension upgrades, like performance coilovers and anti-roll bars, allow for better control and stability, especially when cornering or navigating uneven surfaces on the track. They reduce body roll and help maintain better tyre contact with the road.
What’s the best way to increase my SUV’s power for track driving?
The best way to increase your SUV’s power is through forced induction, such as superchargers and turbochargers. These systems increase the amount of air entering the engine, which allows it to burn more fuel and generate more power.
Can I use my street tyres on the track?
While street tyres can work, they won’t provide the same level of grip and performance on the track. Performance track tyres are designed to withstand the heat and high speeds of track driving, ensuring better grip and stability.
FAQ About EA Performance
What products do you sell?
At EA Performance, we sell a wide range of performance products, including suspension kits, turbochargers, superchargers, exhaust systems, brake kits, and lightweight wheels. We only carry top-quality brands like Bilstein, Capristo Exhaust, and Brixton Forged.
Do you offer installation services?
Yes! Our expert technicians at EA Performance can help you with everything from selecting the right upgrades to installing them on your SUV. We’ll ensure everything is set up to maximise your performance on the track.
Where can I find your products?
Visit our website at EA Performance to browse our wide range of performance products, or come in for a consultation if you’re not sure where to start.