The KTM X-Bow GT2 is one of the six new cars in the GT2 Pack DLC for Assetto Corsa Competizione. Cars in this class feature more power but less sophisticated aero than GT3s and may require adjustments to your driving style to maximise their mechanical grip. Here is what you need to know to get the most out of the new KTM.
Introducing the KTM X-Bow GT2
KTM, originally an Austrian motorcycle manufacturer, ventured into car production with the X-Bow model in 2008, collaborating with multiple partners and suppliers to bring the project to fruition.
Notably, the car’s chassis was developed with Italian racing car manufacturer Dallara, and designed specifically for track performance, the X-Bow features a steel frame and carbon fibre body panels.
Over the years, KTM has continuously refined and evolved the X-Bow, introducing various iterations and performance upgrades to enhance its capabilities on the track. These updates include improvements to the car’s aerodynamics, powertrain and handling, as well as the creation of track-only variants from the platform.
Two of these cars are in Assetto Corsa Competizione: the KTM X-Bow GT4 in the GT4 DLC and the KTM X-Bow GT2 in the GT2 DLC.
The Basic Car Characteristics
The KTM X-Bow GT2 is a high-performance track car powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre inline 5-cylinder engine sourced from Audi. With up to 600 horsepower as mandated by the GT2 regulations, the KTM X-Bow GT2 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 3 seconds, boasting a top speed exceeding 260 kilometres per hour.
Its lightweight carbon fibre monocoque chassis ensures remarkable agility and precision on the track. Enhanced aerodynamics, including a sizable rear wing and front splitter, improve handling and stability at high speeds.
Setup parameters for this car are similar to GT3s and will not bring surprises, although are noticeably simplified. The bulk of the potential performance is in tyre pressures and mechanical grip, and you can fine-tune the behaviour with dampers, aero and electronics.
- The Coach Dave Academy team of drivers and engineers have released setup offerings for the KTM and other GT2 cars, available for purchase as part of our setup subscription.
Steering and Cornering
With its unconventional design and lightweight construction, the KTM surprises with exceptional agility and responsiveness. Although the power output is low compared to other GT2 cars, the car weighs only 1100 kilograms and excels in the corners.
The KTM X-Bow GT2 is very stable and responsive on many circuits, making it one of the easier cars to drive in the GT2 class. Despite its potential lack of straight-line speed compared to other models on certain tracks, its fun factor and ease of handling make it a standout choice. This car can be a solid choice for wet track because of consistency and cornering behaviour reminiscent of GT3 cars.
The most eye-catching feature of the KTM is the clamshell cockpit, offering a different experience from standard door designs. However, one notable drawback is limited visibility on the left, which makes spotting apexes for the left turns challenging.
- If you need to learn more about Field of View (FoV) in ACC, check out our guide here.
Need Setups?
Here at Coach Dave Academy, we’ve already released a full suite of setups for the KTM X-Bow GT2 that is available now as part of our ACC Setup Subscription, allowing you to focus purely on your on-track performance.
With access to our free Coach Dave Delta app too, you can benefit from easy setup installation, automatic tyre pressure configuration, our Never Lift course and much more.
- Race setups
- Qualifying setups
- Onboard laps
- Data packs
- All are crafted by professionals
Power Delivery and Braking
In terms of engine power and braking performance, the KTM X-Bow GT2 is close to the single-make cars currently in the simulator, such as the Ferrari 488 Challenge EVO and the Lamborghini Huracan Super Trofeo EVO 2.
At the end of long straights, the KTM is 10-15 km/h faster than GT3 cars, so you should adjust braking points accordingly. Usually, you can aim to brake about 30-40 meters earlier to compensate for overspeed.
Besides, you should be smooth with the throttle at the early acceleration. The corner exit speed in the KTM is lower than in the GT3 cars, and the available power is higher, so the car is prone to exit oversteer.
The car is excellent on the brakes compared to other GT2s though, and you have adjustable ABS for additional help. As usual for Assetto Corsa Competizione, you want to keep ABS intervention low for maximum performance.
Aerodynamics and Bodywork
GT2 cars have less aerodynamic and cornering performance than the GT3s. Therefore, you should adjust your driving due to lower apex speeds, particularly in the medium and high-speed corners.
The aero settings on the KTM X-Bow GT2 include the rear wing angle and rake, which is adjustable with front and rear ride height in the “Aero” section of the setup. On many circuits, the KTM may like more wing and rake relative to GT3 cars to compensate for the less efficient aero.
- If you need help understanding how to handle the KTM X-Bow GT2 on various circuits, watch the onboard hot laps on the Coach Dave Hotlaps YouTube channel.
Final Thoughts
The GT2 DLC pack offers a unique driving experience, complemented by the stunning Red Bull Ring track. Despite its quirks, the KTM feels remarkably agile and glued to the road, making it a top choice for those seeking a GT3-like feel, oddly reminiscent of the Ferrari 296 GT3.
- If you need help to improve your driving fundamentals or extract the maximum out of this car, explore Coach Dave Academy’s Never Lift driving course or individual coaching.
