Much like a mechanical limited-slip differential, torque vectoring subtly pulses the brake of the inside front wheel in a corner, directing more torque to the outside wheel, actually helping bend the car into a corner.

WSJ: 2012 Focus Titanium Sedan: A Stab at a European Sport Sedan��From Ford | Rumble Seat by Dan Neil

The computer-control system can then apply the brake on the wheel concerned, and even adjust the amount of engine torque sent to that wheel, so that skidding is prevented.

ECONOMIST: MONITOR

The signature piece in this car is the all-wheel-drive system, which can shunt most of the engine torque to the rear wheels as necessary and will direct more torque to the outside rear wheel in a corner to help null out understeer.

WSJ: 2012 Acura TL With SH-AWD Review: A Good Grille and a Better Car Behind It | Rumble Seat by Dan Neil

Because cars with rear-wheel drive not only don't torque steer (front wheels, upon hard acceleration, fighting the driver's navigating intentions), but have a more natural feeling both entering and leaving a turn.

FORBES: Overview

Torque steer (the tendency of front-wheel drive cars to pull to the side upon acceleration) is a problem with the Beetle, especially when you have a heavy right foot like I do.

FORBES: 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Turbo Convertible Test Drive And Review - Top Down Fun

No other compact economy car outside of a Mini Cooper offers as much stick-and-rudder fun as the 3: The steering (hydraulic, with an electric pump) is tack-sharp and precise, with almost no torque steer and a gratifying heft that gathers as you turn the wheel.

WSJ: 2012 Mazda3 i Grand Touring Review: It Really Moves the Needle (Not the Gas One) | Rumble Seat by Dan Neil

Torque vectoring is permanently active and allows for selective distribution of forces for each individual wheel.

ENGADGET: Visualized: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell bares all