It’s all the rage for sim-racing enthusiasts these days, with all the product launches and other simulation peripherals. Plus the latest news, of course.

It all started with rumors of Corsair’s takeover of Fanatec, which turned out to be true, as the American company finalized the acquisition of the German sim-racing giant a few weeks ago. But most importantly, Fanatec ‘s activities will continue as normal, whether on the track or on our screens.

Then there was Gamescom, with the announcement of various products from sim-racing brands such as Thrustmaster, Moza and also Fanatec. Among the equipment and other products announced, we saw the Fanatec Bentley GT3, a magnificent steering wheel developed in collaboration with the prestigious British luxury car brand.

Design and ergonomics

The Bentley GT3 is part of Fanatec’s Podium range. As such, it boasts a magnificent design. The diameter is 31 cm, making it ergonomically superb. The steering wheel rests on a 5mm-thick carbon fiber structure and a magnesium core with a circular central screen. It’s atypical I must say, but Fanatec has collaborated with Bentley Motors and its racing division to develop this little gem, which equips the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak.

The steering wheel is flashy, I warn you, with several colors edging the buttons. The grips are covered in alcantara, as you’d expect from a very premium steering wheel. The lower wheel spokes feature Fanatec logos on the left and Bentley on the right.

The ergonomics of this steering wheel are excellent, with driver-oriented controls. True, the 3.4″ screen covers the entire faceplate, but the buttons and two rotary switches are spread across the rest of the wheel, easily accessible without your hands leaving their place.

At the rear, there are 6 paddles, 4 magnetic and 2 analog. These paddles are adjustable, and 4 of them are textured.

Compatibility, pricing and availability

The Bentley GT3 is compatible with all Fanatec bases, provided you have the QR2 Base Side on them. As far as platforms are concerned, we have the PC of course, and only the Playstation with the base that goes with it. I don’t know why, but many manufacturers of sim-racing peripherals seem to be moving away from the Xbox platform, and I think that’s a shame.

For the price, I’d advise you to hang on: €2,000 incl. VAT on the Fanatec website, making it the most expensive steering wheel from the German brand. Those who can afford it can order the Bentley GT3 now, to receive it within standard delivery times.

It’s a piece of jewelry intended only for passionate and financially comfortable riders. And look out for more details in our forthcoming review.