While SPS is good, it is not "sporty" in the sense of a BMW E46 or a Honda Integra. The transition between low-speed and high-speed assistance, while smooth, can feel slightly artificial. Some drivers report a "dead zone" just off-center at medium speeds (50-70 km/h) where the steering feels light but not communicative.
Do not seek out SPS as a selling point. It was advanced in 2000, but modern electric steering (even on a 2015 Ford Fiesta) is lighter, more reliable, and equally stable at speed. A failing SPS pump is a red flag — walk away or negotiate a large discount. opel sps
As speed builds, the system aggressively reduces assistance. At 130 km/h (80 mph) on the Autobahn, the steering becomes heavy, direct, and reassuring. There is no "wandering" or nervousness. This gives the driver genuine confidence. The weighting feels linear and predictable — it does not suddenly drop off, but progressively firms up. While SPS is good, it is not "sporty"
Great in concept and when working perfectly, but let down by age-related reliability and repair costs. Do not seek out SPS as a selling point
This review evaluates the system from the perspective of a driver experiencing it today. What is SPS? SPS stands for Speed-sensitive Parameter Steering . Unlike traditional hydraulic power steering (which has a fixed level of assist) or early electronic systems (which were often numb), SPS uses an electro-hydraulic pump. The pump’s pressure is controlled by the car’s ECU based on vehicle speed. In simple terms: lots of assist at parking speeds, minimal assist on the highway. The Driving Experience – The Good 1. Superb Low-Speed Maneuvering At parking lot speeds (<15 km/h or 10 mph), SPS delivers immense power assistance. You can literally twirl the wheel with one finger. This makes parallel parking a breeze, especially in older cars without parking sensors or cameras. It was a standout feature in its day, rivaling modern light electric systems.
