ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 for Xbox Product Review

Whether you’re new to sim racing or an experienced veteran with years of experience, you most likely know about some of the top brands in the industry, like Fanatec. One of the best features of this brand is its vast range, meaning you can find various products for your style of play, platform, and budget. In this post, we’re here to talk about the ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 for Xbox, which is one of the brand’s best-selling wheels. It offers great versatility in the types of cars drivers can race (GT, Rally, Drifting, Formula 1, etc.)

However, as the name suggests, the GT V2 has been made specifically for Xbox users who enjoy the adrenaline provided by realistic sim racing titles, such as Gran Turismo and Assetto Corsa, and want many functions available to them at their fingertips via buttons.

If you’re in the market for a powerful steering wheel for Xbox and don’t want to splash too much cash, this is the wheel for you. However, if you need more convincing, you’re at the right place, as we’ll share an in-depth Fanatec ClubSport Wheel GT V2 review for prospective buyers.

Source: Fanatec

About Fanatec

In the world of simulation racing, Fanatec is a ten-ton gorilla. The German brand has garnered a solid reputation over the years as one of the best manufacturers of sim racing hardware, including steering wheels, pedals, and other peripherals for PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. One of the key drivers of the company’s success is its attention to detail regarding features modern racers value, including a sleek design, live telemetry display, instant menu access, and quick assembly.

Fanatec has employed a universal quick-release system for wheels and wheelbases to enable drivers to change or upgrade their gear instead of selling it easily. In other words, the company aims to provide an interchangeable hardware ecosystem, making it easy for racers of all levels to improve their immersion and gameplay experience with every upgrade (wheel, wheelbase, paddles, hub, etc.).

Moreover, all you need to set up is a driver package and a physical USB Type-C connection to your Xbox, and you’re all set for driving!

The ClubSport Range

Many new or inexperienced sim racers find the Fanatec range slightly confusing. Most remain blissfully unaware that their gear is split into three different categories – Entry Level/budget (CSL), mid-range (ClubSport), and high-end (Podium).

Note: The CSL range may represent the company’s least expensive options. However, these products perform quite better than their budget counterparts from other companies, including Thrustmaster and Logitech. More importantly, the ClubSport range is a huge step up from Fanatec’s entry-level offer in terms of build material, technology, and essential features. Finally, the Podium range consists of the company’s high-end sim racing hardware, such as the Podium Steering Wheel R300.

One of the biggest benefits of the ClubSport range is cross-compatibility. Thanks to a cleverly-designed quick-release system, users can easily change or upgrade their wheels as per their budget, racing style, features, or quality requirement.

Fanatec ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 – A Brief Overview

Costing around $400, the ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 for Xbox is perfect for GT-style racing. It looks like a replica of a real-world race car steering wheel, featuring an OLED display instead of the simpler seven-segment display typically found on cheaper wheels for menu navigation and telemetry display. However, the real talking point is the game-changing rotary encoders that have been strategically designed for racers that require real-time adjustments to settings, including:

  • Differential Bias
  • Fuel Trim
  • Engine Maps
  • ERS, etc.

What’s Included

The Fanatec ClubSport Steering Whee GT V2 is one of the complete modular wheel systems on the market. When you buy one, you’ll receive the following components:

ClubSport Wheel Rim GT

One of the first things you’d notice when unboxing the GT V2 package is a wheel rim that looks like it came from a GT series supercar. The diameter is 13”. Every part is made of authentic and fine materials, including anodized aluminum and suede leather, that gives it an incredible grip and premium feel.

Moreover, it has been strategically designed for Fanatec hubs (CSL, ClubSport Universal, and Podium), so you won’t need to drill any holes to install it into any wheelbase.

ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox

In the package, you’ll also find an Xbox-compatible ClubSport Universal Hub V2 using which you can attach any wheel rim in the market as long as it has a 6×70 mm or 3×50 mm mounting pattern. If you’re looking to upgrade to a more premium option in the future, you can try out options from Sparco, Momo, and OMP Racing, among other brands.

More importantly, this version of the ClubSport Universal Hub is compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S and comes fully assembled and pre-configured.

4 x Button Clusters with Three Buttons Each

Next, you should find four button clusters with three integrated buttons each, which you can position anywhere you like on your Clubsport Steering Wheel GT V2 wheel system. Moreover, with this alignment flexibility, you can customize your rims to suit your shape and size preferences.

2 x Small Levers and 2 x Long Levers (paddle units)

Source: Fanatec

The GT V2 comes with two sets of paddle shifters or levers in different sizes, meaning you can install whichever one you like to the module. Both levers are designed to facilitate rapid and convenient shifting.

1 x FunkySwitch™

The 7-way FunkySwitch is one of the most interesting tech innovations in steering wheel system design. This trademark multi-purpose inputs device features a rotary encoder, push-button, and d-pad combined to bring up the Tuning Menu on the integrated display, allowing drivers to adjust their gameplay settings relatively easily.

LED Display Unit and telemetry data

Most entry-level or older steering wheels typically include a seven-segment display. However, the GT V2 features a three-digit LED display using which users can display different Tuning menu functions and telemetry data. However, this feature will only work on compatible sim racing titles or third-party software. Plus, you can install it in different positions – horizontal (flat) or vertical (upright).

ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module with Pre-Installed Aluminium Paddle Plates

The ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module is one of Fanatec’s most innovative components designed to offer the most authentic shifting feel. Made from carbon fiber and CNC-machined aluminum, the module uses powerful magnets instead of springs to enable rapid shifting while holding the steering wheel.

Moreover, Fanatec has made GT V2’s assembly easier by pre-installing the aluminum paddle plates, so all you have to do is attach the hub and the rim. Plus, since this module uses the same connection as the Podium Advanced Paddle Module, you can upgrade your system in the future.

QR1 Wheel-Side (ClubSport Quick Release Adapter) with a Safety Pin

When you buy the ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2, you should receive a separate package containing QR1 Wheel, also known as ClubSport Quick Release Adapter. Savvy sim racers are looking for this feature in a modular steering wheel system. This quick-release mechanism enables them to change compatible steering wheels easily.

Mount

Those using Podium wheelbases can also enable High-Torque Mode from the Tuning Menu. However, this feature may not work on every steering wheel. In terms of design, the adapter is made of high-grade aluminum with a ball lock mechanism. It follows the same 6-hole mounting patterns as most Fanatec steering wheels, so you can expect to achieve extreme flexibility in terms of upgrades.

Moreover, you should also find a safety pin to help stabilize the wheel to the base. Some users claim to have experienced rattling without the pin, especially in bumps and off-tracks.

Safety Screw, Sets of Bolts, and Spacers for Different Components

In the package, you should find a safety screw for the wheelbase to reduce vibrations and deter tampering/removal. It will also include different sets of bolts and spacers for components and an Allen key for assembly.

Racing-style push Button Caps and ‘F’ FunkySwitch™ Sticker

These are popular Fanatec accessories you can find in most products. They’re simply made to give your steering wheel a custom look with different cap and background color combinations. You can choose from over 20,000 variations. To apply them, all you need is a good pair of plastic tweezers to remove the installed caps and place the stickers, including the ‘F’ FunkySwitchtm sticker, which is the company’s trademark.

Quick Guide

Finally, your ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 for Xbox package should include a manual and quick guide to all the components and how to assemble everything.

Assembly

Assembling the ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 for Xbox is a relatively straightforward. However, it can become unnecessarily complicated for new sim racers or those with limited DIY-assembly experience. The good news, however, is that the ClubSport Universal Hub comes with pre-installed paddles, so you can save some time on those connections and avoid unnecessary wire damage. Here’s a simple guide to assembling this modular steering wheel system.

Installing the QR1 Wheel-Side (ClubSport Quick-Release Adapter)

To install the quick-release adapter on the steering wheel, you simply need to remove the protective cap on the back and gently slide it in a while, matching the screw holes. Next, insert the six washers and bolts included in the package and gently tighten them using a 4 mm Allen key (also included). Make sure you don’t overtighten the screws to prevent slippage.

Customizing the Button Caps

While this step can be saved for the last, it’s better to get it done before attaching the rim. You can simply lay the hub flat and remove the button caps by hand or using a pair of plastic tweezers. From there, gently push the new button caps as per your preference from the available selection in the correct orientation.

Extra Tip: If you’re having trouble removing the button caps by hand and don’t have tweezers, you can use a plastic pry tool or a flat-head screwdriver. Make sure to wrap whatever you use with a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the surface.

Customizing the Tuning Display

As mentioned before, the three-digit LED display can be used in a vertical or horizontal position. To put it in the desired position, all you need to do is remove the display and rotate it 90 degrees to fit the pins perfectly into the slot. You want to be careful in this step to avoid damage to the display.

Adjusting the Shifter Paddles and ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module

If you want to exchange the pre-installed GT-style paddle plates with formula-style ones, you need to use a 2 mm Allen key to remove the two bolts attaching the plates. You can attach the new paddle on either side of the module, re-insert the bolts, and tighten gently. You can also add paddle plate spacers included in the package for further rim distance or position customization.

Moreover, you can mount the ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module in two different positions. Use the 4 mm Allen key to remove the two connecting bolts, adjust the position, and re-attach.

Adjusting the Button Clusters

To adjust the button clusters to your liking, loosen the four bolts attached to the wheel’s rear and front and remove the front cover by removing the screws. This should give you access to the circuitry and cables connecting the button clusters. For simpler access, you can remove them by holding the connectors’ plastic ends and gently pulling them out.

Once you’re done, the frame holding the clusters should detach smoothly, allowing you to loosen the nuts with an 8 mm wrench easily. Next, you must extend or retract the clusters in the same position according to your rim’s size and shape and tighten the nut. You can remove the clusters if you don’t need them or change their positions according to your preference.

Once done, you must reconnect the cluster plugs into their respective sockets in the proper orientation and place the cables in the rubber cable protectors. Finally, re-attach the cover and tighten the bolts.

Note: Be careful not to pinch the cables and push them as far away from the bolts as possible when fitting them.

Attaching the Wheel Rim

As mentioned above, the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox supports any wheel with a 6×70 mm or 3×50 mm hole pattern. To attach the ClubSport Wheel Rim GT, you must place it on top of the Universal Hub V2 and align it with the mounting holes. Next, carefully insert the M5x16 bolts included in the package and tighten them using the 3 mm Allen key.

Attaching the Steering Wheel to the Base

You should find a storage pin blocking the connection on the quick-release adapter. Remove it and align the guide rail on both sides of the quick-release system. Next, pull back on the release mechanism to expose the aluminum body and gently slide the wheel into the wheelbase.

After completing this step, your modular steering wheel system is ready. You can proceed to setup, calibration, and settings customization.

Compatibility and Drivers

According to Fanatec, the ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 for Xbox is compatible with the following platforms and wheelbases:

https://fanatec.com/media/image/04/ea/8b/2021_05_17_CS_UH_UHX_V2_Detail_05_9549PgZEcKprGE4bM_1280x1280.jpg
Source: Fanatec

Platforms

Xbox series (as indicated by the symbol)

Xbox is perhaps the most versatile gaming console in the market. Fanatec has designed the ClubSport Universal Hub to support Xbox One and Xbox Series X and S. The GT V2 is included with the Hub. Therefore, any Xbox user can enjoy what this wheel has to offer. But you have already guessed that because of the fancy Xbox symbol!

PC

The ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 will work on PC as long as the specifications of the compatible wheelbases remain unchanged.

Wheel base and connector

As mentioned above, one of the key benefits of opting for Fanatec sim racing hardware is cross-compatibility among its three sim racing product categories – CSL, ClubSport, and Podium. Therefore, users can connect the GT V2 with any wheelbase, including:

  • ClubSport Wheel Bases V2 and V2.5
  • CSL Elite Wheel Base, Elite Wheel Base V1.1, DD Wheel Base, and even the PS4-licensed +- Elite Wheel Base
  • Podium Wheel Bases DD1, DD2, DD1 PS4

Performance

Size, Weight, and Force Feedback

With a diameter and weight of approx. 13” and 4.34 lbs, the ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 is neither the lightest nor smallest wheel on the market. This makes it perfectly suitable for GT and road car racers looking to improve their performance while sticking to a mid-range wheelbase. This wheel does a much better job of replicating real-world turning forces in their gameplay.

Grip

Most experienced sim racers would be impressed by the attention to detail Fanatec has paid to make this wheel bundle feel as authentic as possible. It has perfectly blended the anodized aluminum rim with genuine suede leather that feels very high-quality. Moreover, it grips quite nicely and is incredibly easy to clean.

Quick Release

One of the most exciting features the GT V2 brings to your right is tool-free rim mounting via its quick-release mechanism. The QR1 Wheel-Side (ClubSport Quick-Release Adapter) included in the package enables users to change their rims even during gameplay quickly. Moreover, they can operate it with full force feedback on any direct-drive wheelbase from Fanatec, such as the Podium Wheel Base DD1 or DD2.

How to Improve the ClubSport Wheel GT V2’s Performance

If you’re looking for ways to improve the performance of this mid-range wheel system, here are some changes or upgrades you can make:

Switching to the Podium Wheel Base (DD2)

The Fanatec Podium Wheel Base DD2 is one of the brand’s most powerful and expensive wheelbases costing around $1,500. However, before you opt for this option, you should know that it’s designed for professional or experienced sim racers. The key feature that separates this wheelbase from CSL and ClubSport is its rotation range and torque.

This is a must-have feature for GT, Formula 1, rally, and other format racers looking to tune their wheel’s rotation according to the sim racing games they’re playing, including Project Cars 2, Assetto Corsa, Dirty Rally 2, etc. Offering up to 25 Nm of torque, the Podium DD2 is one of the best high-end options in the market and will offer much better force feedback and immersion.

Unlike ClubSport wheelbases, the DD2 includes a few extra features, including an OLED display using which you can display different wheelbase metrics, such as temperature, torque curves, and feedback strength. So, if you’re looking to become an advanced racer in the future, this upgrade is well worth it.

If you’re ready to upgrade right away, you should know that the Podium Wheel Base DD2 comes with a locking nut mechanism. So, when attaching your wheel to it, you need to ensure the nut doesn’t compress the rubber gasket but only touches it.

From there, you can follow the same insertion technique as before. The only difference now is that you have a locking ring which adds more stability. You simply have to turn in a counter-clockwise direction and tighten it. Once you’re done, you can download the necessary driver and firmware to calibrate the new wheel accordingly.

Source: Fanatec

Upgrading Your Module with Podium Advanced Paddle Module

Another great way to improve the performance of your ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 for Xbox without spending big is by replacing the pre-installed ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module with the Podium Advanced Paddle Module on your Universal Hub V2.

By opting for this solution for around $180, you’ll get two pre-mounted gold anodized aluminum clutch plates and four carbon shifter plates (2 small ones for Formula 1 steering wheels and two large ones for GT steering wheels).

Moreover, you can enjoy four steering modes:

  • Mappable Axis
  • Clutch/Brake Mode
  • Brake/Throttle Mode
  • F1 Clutch Bite-Point Mode

However, the key difference between the pre-installed module and the Podium upgrade is the massive improvement in shifting due to the automotive-grade quality magnetic shifters. Moreover, the dual magnetic paddles offer a sensational feel and improve the module’s durability.

However, to replace the module, you’ll need to open up the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 cover. To do this, simply loosen the four bolts with a 3 mm Allen key and remove the cover. From there, you’ll have to remove the pre-installed ClubSport Magnetic Module’s cables by holding the plastic end of the connectors and gently pulling them out.

Next, you must loosen the mounting bolts holding the module and detach it from the hub while carefully removing the cables and shifters. Like the pre-installed module, you can attach the Podium Advanced Paddle Module in two positions. The top position brings the module closer to the rim, while the bottom places it slightly further away.

Finally, insert the M5x12 mm bolts, attach the new module to the hub, connect the cables into the correct sockets, and place the cables in the rubber cable protectors before re-attaching the cover and screwing the four bolts.

Upgrading Your Button Clusters with the Podium Button Module Endurance

If you want to improve the aesthetic feel of your modular steering wheel system, the Podium Button Module endurance is the upgrade you need to turn your wheel into a stunning GT3-class steering wheel.

This high-end button module will set you back nearly $200. Still, it will replace the button clusters with a beautiful carbon fiber plate featuring a host of functions, such as Wiper, High Beam, Pit Speed, Display, Radio, Mark Fuel Reset, Reverse, Alarm, etc. You’ll also get two 2-way toggle switches, a 2-way analog stick, and the iconic 7-way FunkySwitchtm.

The Podium Button Module will add a wealth of controls at your fingertips. Moreover, it will display real-time information about your vehicle through a 2.7” OLED display and 15 high-intensity RGB lights (9 RevLEDs and 6 FlagLEDs). To install this module, you’ll have to remove all the button clusters as explained above and align the plate with the hub’s mounting holes.

Next, Place the wheel rim on top, insert the six M5x125 mm bolts, and tighten them. Finally, connect the USB Type-C cable from the Endurance Module to the Universal Hub V2 for Xbox.

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it – an in-depth ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 review walking readers through every aspect of the product from assembly to performance and upgrades. Hopefully, this post gives you enough information about the functionality to make a more informed decision regarding whether or not to purchase this mid-range modular wheel system from Fanatec.

The GT V2 offers several high-end features for sim racers looking to switch between different racing styles. Moreover, it enables users to upgrade several key components with an incrementalist approach. This way, users can gradually improve their wheel’s performance and immersion experience with new rims, hubs, or button/shifter modules. You can order it directly from Fanatec. Shipping costs vary based on the country you are based in.