Vehicular Improvements in Saints Row the Third

While I thought the driving mechanics of Saints Row 2 was fine, Volition has decided to scrap the whole system and start from scratch, giving us a new, improved and funner driving experience.


Drifting
One of the newest editions is the new drifting mechanic. While drifting will be easy to do, more advanced players will be able to do special tricks like donuts or a smooth 180 degree spin. Counter-steering can also be used for sharper more precise corners. However, don't think of this as hand braking, those two actions are totally different.

Weight
The cars felt real light weight and floaty. So Volition is increasing the weight of the vehicles in the game. Don't worry, these wont be like those metal boulders in GTA IV. This increased weight will make collisions more satisfying and realistic. However, to keep its arcade feel, Your car will be more dominant on the road, meaning even a compact sports car can plow through a semi-truck with ease, making it funner and easier to avoid the police.

Damage Physics
The crashes in previous Saints Row titles weren't very realistic. A front-end collision would cause the back to distort as well. This time, cars will mend the way they would in real life. Drive a tank over a car and the whole thing will be flattened like a pancake. Tires are also affected. They can get a flat or even blow out completely, leaving only the rim.

I have a tank. Your argument is invalid.

Aircraft
While flying was fun to do in Saint Row 2, the controlling was a pain. Now the handling has been fixed to make it more accessible and more comfortable. However if you're the person who preferred the old handling system, there's an advanced option in the menus to change it back to the old way. Helicopters are also getting the special treatment. They will now be easier to fly and to land as well.

Do a barrel roll!!!

To showcase these new improvements, Volition has released a new video featuring the new driving physics and some of the new vehicles that will be drivable in the city of Steelport. Can't wait to drive some of these new bad boys.