Does this option of variable assist steering make a big difference? If you don't have it is it harder to steer when parking (thinking of the wife here).
I'm guessing it can't be added by the dealer if the car doesn't already have it (? correct?).

 

I have it, as I have gotten used to it on previous cars. Definitely adds assist in parking lots, might be a good idea for the wife.

I have driven ones without, and although very nice for the purity of overall driving, can become cumbersome if the car is daily driven locally.

I highly doubt that the dealer could add this on later, and even if they could, would likely not be cost efficient.

 

I have it on mine and I do not mind it at all.

I dont think the wife would notice if you dont get it. I have not driven ones without it, but I bet that without it it would be a little harder. With the assist it's very soft BUT not as soft as my mom's Lexus.

I would get it and call it a day, it's like $200 if I'm not mistaken and it does not take away tremendous steering feeling.

Dealer option I bet will be unaffordable at best.

 

it does make a big difference at parking lot speeds

not a deal breaker but nice to have