Why 20mph Feels Unnatural in Modern Cars – And How to Cope

Driving at 20mph feels harder than it should — and it’s not because you’re a bad driver.

If you’ve ever glanced down in a 20mph zone and somehow found yourself doing 23… 24… 25, this video is for you. Not because you’re reckless, but because modern cars, modern enforcement, and outdated driving training have collided — and drivers are stuck in the middle.

In this video, I explain why 20mph feels so unnatural in modern cars, why so many law-abiding drivers struggle to stick to it, and most importantly, how to actually cope with 20mph limits without losing your mind or your licence.

This isn’t a rant about whether 20mph zones are right or wrong. It’s a practical, driver-focused breakdown of what’s really going on behind the wheel — and the simple techniques that genuinely help.

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🚗 The 5 key things we cover in this video

1️⃣ Why 20mph feels wrong in modern cars
Most cars are designed to feel relaxed at 30mph and above. At 20, gearing, refinement and lack of feedback work against you.

2️⃣ Why no one ever taught us how to drive at 20mph
Driving lessons were built around 30s, 40s and “keeping up with traffic”, not sustained low-speed discipline.

3️⃣ Gear choice at 20mph (manual cars explained properly)
Second vs third gear, control vs efficiency, engine braking, and how to stop creeping over the limit.

4️⃣ Managing pressure from tailgaters and traffic behind
Why intimidation makes things worse — and how calm, consistent driving keeps you safe and legal.

5️⃣ Cameras, the “10% plus one” myth, and staying out of trouble
Why drifting to 23mph can still get you fined, and how to use technology to protect your licence.

⸻

At 20mph, you’re not there to make progress.
You’re there to manage space, anticipate hazards, and stay aware.
Once you shift that mindset, driving slowly stops feeling stressful — and starts feeling controlled.

If you’ve ever felt caught out, frustrated, or unfairly judged in a 20mph zone, you’re not alone.

👇 Tell me in the comments:
Do 20mph limits feel calmer where you drive — or just more stressful?
And have you found any tricks that actually help?

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