Asetek GT Nova Is an Affordable Racing Wheel With an OLED Display

Asetek GT Nova is a new racing wheel designed primarily for GT and endurance racing. The manufacturer unveiled it at SimRacing Expo in Frankfurt under the Asetek Racing brand, which builds on the former Asetek SimSports division. This is not simply a redesign of an older model, but an entirely new design that aims to combine extensive controls with a clear layout.

The recommended price is €299.99, with sales set to begin in March 2027. Asetek aims to offer a wheel with an integrated display and a generous feature set at a price point where similar features are far from standard. We had the chance to try a prototype at the Frankfurt expo. Since it is not a final production model, some elements, their finish, or their functionality may still change before release.

Display and in-race settings controls

One of the main new features is the integrated 1.3-inch RaceView OLED display, with a resolution of 128x64 pixels. It shows basic driving information such as current speed and selected gear, but its role goes beyond telemetry.

GT Nova is the manufacturer’s first wheel to integrate RaceHub software features directly into the hardware. Using the display and controls, users will be able to adjust selected settings on a compatible Direct Drive base, Force Feedback strength, pedal sensitivity, and the wheel’s rotation range without having to switch to a PC app.

The wheel also features the MultiLink system, which expands the available controls without requiring additional standalone buttons. Drivers can select a function to adjust with a rotary encoder, then change its value using a thumb encoder. The system supports up to 12 settings categories, including traction control, ABS, brake balance, and communications volume. The display shows the name of the selected function.

The wheel will work with Xbox as well as PC. Asetek naturally can’t bring its app to Xbox, but all these controls will let users configure the wheel in detail without needing the app, which is a big plus. All those options are right at your fingertips.

Plenty of controls on a compact wheel

The front panel has 13 standard buttons, two thumb encoders, two rotary encoders, and two seven-way controls. Their combination is designed to provide quick access to important car functions and simulator settings without having to take your hands off the wheel. All the buttons are backlit, which I wasn’t too keen on. A slightly subtler backlight might suit the wheel better, but this is still a pre-production sample, and things may change before its March release.

Shifting is handled by a pair of magnetic paddles with Hall sensors. Asetek says they have a shorter travel and a distinct stop, which should make shifting quick and precise. For players who find the loud clicking of the magnetic mechanism distracting, the manufacturer is also preparing replaceable rubber stops to quiet it down.

Above the display are RevLEDs that indicate engine RPM. The buttons have aRGB backlighting, which can make them easier to identify during night races or in darker environments.

Construction and expansion options

The wheel has a diameter of 290 millimeters and a listed weight of 1,450 grams, including the quick-release mechanism. Its construction uses glass-fiber-reinforced polymer. The LMP Mk.II grips have an ergonomically shaped design intended to reduce hand fatigue during long endurance races, and they are replaceable. I wasn’t entirely impressed with their material, which felt like that of cheaper wheels. On the other hand, this is a more affordable wheel from a genuinely premium brand. The other materials felt and looked truly high-end.

The box is also set to include an aluminum Asetek Racing Quick Release mechanism. The wheel will be natively compatible with Asetek bases, from the La Prima and Forte models up to the Invicta. The manufacturer also lists compatibility with the new Initium DD10 base, which will also support Xbox. Connecting it to bases from other manufacturers will be possible using a separately sold adapter.

The Initium DD10 base was also on display in Frankfurt, so of course I had to try it. It launches this month, offers 10Nm of torque, and can be upgraded to 14Nm. I got to try the upgrade, and it worked very well. The strength felt just right, the details were clear and distinct, and the action on the track came through to the wheel superbly. The base is also one of Asetek’s more accessible products, priced at 420 euros before tax. To complete the test setup, I tried it all with a pair of single pedals featuring load-cell brakes.

The wheel’s setup can be expanded with additional magnetic paddles or a pair of analog clutch paddles, for example, to set the bite point at launch. This lets each driver tailor the configuration to their preferences.

Asetek also announced at the expo that products purchased from October 16, 2026, will come with a five-year warranty. GT Nova is set to be included in this offer.

My overall impressions of the wheel are very positive. If the production model retains Asetek’s signature quality and the features shown at the expo, the company could seriously shake up the racing wheel market. At this price, it could be an excellent option.

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