Is the Thrustmaster TH8A Still Worth It in 2025? (Review)
Is the Thrustmaster TH8A still a good buy in 2025? Here’s a quick look at how it compares to modern alternatives and why it struggles in today’s market.
The Fanatec CSL Elite Porsche Vision GT wheel is one of the company’s most distinctive products in years. With its futuristic styling and the iconic Porsche crest at its center, it arrives with big expectations. Developed in collaboration with Porsche and inspired by the Vision Gran Turismo concept car, this wheel is as much a statement piece as it is a functional racing tool. After spending time with it, it is clear that while this is not a wheel for everyone, it delivers something rare in sim racing today: genuine novelty and fun.
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At first glance, the Vision GT wheel looks unlike anything else in Fanatec’s lineup. Its 320 mm diameter gives it a wide stance, and the shape inspired directly by the Porsche Vision Gran Turismo concept feels more like a futuristic control module than a traditional steering wheel. As a result, mounted on a rig, it transforms your setup into something that resembles a concept car interior.
The build quality is solid. The rim is wrapped in “Tacturus”, Fanatec’s new synthetic suede material designed to be more durable and sweat resistant than Alcantara. It feels soft and premium in hand. The body of the wheel is made from injection molded plastic, but a thick cast aluminum frame inside keeps it rigid. There is virtually no flex or movement during hard driving.
The pre-installed QR2 Lite quick release allows the wheel to handle full torque from Fanatec’s strongest bases. This makes it compatible across the CSL DD, ClubSport DD and Podium ecosystem, which is a significant convenience if you already own a Fanatec setup.
The wheel is striking in appearance. The matte finish, gold Porsche emblem, and circular OLED display give it a premium aesthetic. The OLED screen shows telemetry and also opens the Fanatec tuning menu when the Porsche crest is pressed, which feels like a very Porsche-like detail.
The futuristic styling does come with ergonomic drawbacks. Because of the unusual shape, your thumbs may bump into the upper casing, and some controls sit further away than ideal. The two bottom encoders require removing a hand from the wheel. The seven-way switch also sits awkwardly, and the red buttons near the grips are close enough that they may occasionally be pressed with your knuckles.
The Vision GT wheel includes four encoders, two multi-position switches, a seven-way switch, and several clicky face buttons. The build and tactile quality of these controls is decent, though some of the lower encoders feel light and plasticky.
The paddle shifters are a highlight. They are magnetic, crisp, and accurately positioned. They are a little noisy, but they feel responsive and reliable. The lack of clutch paddles may disappoint some buyers, but it is not a deal breaker for most people.
On track, the wheel delivers a unique and enjoyable driving experience. The rigid structure ensures that force feedback is transferred consistently, and the lightweight feel allows the wheelbase to communicate detail effectively. The Tacturus material is comfortable during longer sessions, but the ergonomics can become noticeable during rapid transitions or endurance driving.
Compared to more traditional mid-range options like the Moza KS or Cube Controls Astra, the Vision GT prioritizes style and novelty over pure practicality. Those wheels offer more conventional ergonomics, but none share the personality or distinctive presentation of the Vision GT.
The Fanatec CSL Elite Porsche Vision GT is not perfect, but it is undeniably fun. It brings a refreshing sense of creativity and individuality to the sim racing space. While its ergonomics are not the best and its button layout is not ideal for competitive driving, the overall experience is memorable and enjoyable.
This is not a wheel you should buy as your first or second upgrade. It is something you get once you already own traditional round, GT, or formula wheels and want something new that adds excitement to your setup. For Porsche fans or anyone who wants a wheel that looks incredible on a rig, the Vision GT is a compelling choice.
If you prefer a more traditional, competitive design, a wheel like the Cube Controls Astra or Moza GS V2 may suit you better. But if you want a wheel that feels special every time you sit down to race, the Vision GT brings that spark.
