An interview with former WRC driver Kristian Sohlberg, who now works as a personal coach, sharing his experiences with other drivers and teams to help them improve in all areas of driving, technique, and psychology. Kristian has also worked with several drivers who are behind the wheel of an N5 car and shares his experiences with the N5 technology
When did you first come across the N5 technique? What was your first impression?
I drove the N5 for the first time in Lapland. I think it was in 2020. I was very surprised overall, positive feeling. Okay, there was quite a lot of work with dampers and so on, but that’s normal with a new car. It’s very easy to drive and a good car to learn. The engine is ok, but some more hp would be nice. Driveability is quite good but it’s more a high-rev engine than a torque engine in my opinion.
What is your opinion about N5 vehicles after spending some time in them? Are they really a good solution for national championships?
Surely good for a national championship. Newer technology and easy to maintain and the running cost is not too high.
For which type of driver are these cars better suited – professional driver or gentleman type? Or both?
Both really, it’s a good car for anyone. Do you really want to push the limits or just enjoy it, it has enough performance for all levels.
Tell us about your trip to Peru. What was it like? Are these cars popular in South America?
It was my first but not last visit to Peru. It was very interesting. Team Wari was very professional and we had a very a good few days. N5 is starting to be more and more popular. At the moment I think there are already 12 cars and interest among drivers is growing. We worked quite a lot with the setup of the car first and when that was done we focused on notes training and driving. I drove also quite a lot, especially in the beginning when we needed to work on setup. I do hope that drivers in Lithuania/Latvia would understand the benefits of coaching, are you a pro or a gentlemen driver.
What main differences do you see between R5(Rally2) and N5?
It’s an overall thing, a little bit everywhere really, mostly from engine performance and differentials. But this is clear and doesn’t cause any issues really.
Do you think it’s possible to have a fully functioning international class that is raced all over Europe or even beyond, but built in the garage and without interference from the FIA, like the N5?
International series needs FIA, but if it’s managed to grow the N5 interest globally, il sure FIA will get interested and an international championship could be possible.
