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Autocross

Car culture term

Autocross
Photo: Airman 1st Class Jake Jacobsen / Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

What is Autocross?

A motorsport format using cones to define a course on a parking lot or airfield. Drivers compete one at a time for fastest lap.

Autocross (also called Solo, autoslalom, or autotest) is a motorsport format where drivers compete on a course defined by traffic cones, typically set up in large parking lots or unused airfields. Cars run one at a time on the same course. Each driver typically gets multiple runs and the fastest single time counts. Penalties (typically 2 seconds) are added for cone hits or off-course excursions.

Autocross emphasizes precise driving technique over outright speed. Course design typically includes tight slaloms, sharp corners, and short straights. Top speeds rarely exceed 60-70 mph but the demand on car control, weight transfer management, and braking precision is significant. Successful autocross cars are typically light, well-balanced, and have responsive steering rather than high power output.

SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) Solo events are the dominant autocross series in the United States, running national and regional championships. The events welcome stock cars and modified cars in different classes. Common autocross cars include the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Subaru WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Honda Civic Type R, and Chevrolet Corvette across various class configurations.

Related terms

GymkhanaTime attackTrack day

Frequently asked questions

Is autocross safe?
Generally yes. Top speeds are moderate (60-70 mph maximum), the course is in a controlled environment with no fixed obstacles to hit, and runoff space is typically adequate. Autocross has one of the lowest serious-injury rates of any motorsport. Helmets are required at most events.
What cars are best for autocross?
Light, balanced cars with responsive steering. The Mazda Miata is the consensus answer, particularly the NA and ND generations. The Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86 are popular alternatives. Modified examples (with sticky tires, suspension upgrades, and minor weight reduction) compete in various SCCA Solo classes.
Do I need a fast car for autocross?
No. Autocross rewards driver skill and car balance more than power. A driver with skill in a Miata can beat a less-skilled driver in a Corvette. Most events run multiple classes that group similar cars together, so you compete against comparable equipment.
How much does it cost to autocross?
Most SCCA Solo events cost $30-$50 per event for members and $50-$80 for non-members. Annual membership is around $90. Total cost for a regional season is typically $400-$800. Tires are the major ongoing expense for serious autocrossers, with R-compound tires lasting 8-15 events.
How often are autocross events held?
SCCA regions typically run 6-12 events per year, generally one per month during the season (which varies by region). National events are scheduled at peak weather periods. Many regions also have Tuesday or Thursday evening events at smaller parking lots in addition to weekend competitions.
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