The Sultan in GTA 5 and Its Legacy in GTA VI

[LunarPhoenix]

For players who’ve spent a lot of time in Los Santos, the Sultan is a familiar sight. It’s one of the few four-door sedans in GTA 5 that manages to balance speed, handling, and versatility, making it a common choice for races, street missions, and casual cruising. With the upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto VI in 2026, the Sultan is making a return, and it’s worth understanding its history, performance, and what to expect in the next game.

What Makes the Sultan Stand Out in GTA 5?

Most players recognize the Sultan as a strong all-rounder in GTA 5. Unlike other sedans, it has all-wheel drive (AWD), which gives it better traction on various surfaces. The default torque distribution is around 40% front and 60% rear, which provides stability in corners and makes power sliding more manageable.

The Sultan’s engine is modeled as a twin-cam inline-6. When upgraded with a roll cage and chassis modifications, it can even support twin turbochargers. This makes it surprisingly competitive in races against other four-door cars, and it’s often considered a close rival to the Kuruma. In general, the Sultan handles better than most off-road vehicles once tuned, though braking is a weak point. It takes longer to stop than expected, and controlling the car when braking through corners can be tricky.

Most players also appreciate the subtle interior details in GTA 5. The Sultan has black wheels by default, matching a darker overall aesthetic. The interior features stitching that complements the primary color of the car, adding a small but appreciated touch of realism.

How Has the Sultan Evolved in GTA VI?

From the first trailers of GTA VI, it’s clear the Sultan is back with some visual and performance updates. The exterior design seems slightly modified compared to GTA 5. The interior now features tan seating, likely inspired by real-world counterparts, and the car sports new stock wheels and updated body proportions.

In-game screenshots show a green Sultan parked during a street takeover and a blue Sultan driving past a flipped SUV on Vice City highways. This demonstrates that the car is expected to play a similar role in GTA VI—fast, reliable, and versatile for both street action and exploration.

The design still draws heavily from Japanese import styling, much like the GTA IV and Chinatown Wars versions. It blends elements from Lexus IS/Toyota Altezza, Subaru Impreza (GD), and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution models. Most players familiar with the Sultan’s history will likely notice these influences in GTA VI, giving the car a familiar yet refreshed feel.

How Does the Sultan Compare to Other Cars in GTA 5?

For practical gameplay, the Sultan sits in a unique position. While sports cars have higher top speeds, they often lack the AWD stability that makes the Sultan such a reliable choice for everyday driving and missions. Its main competitor is the Kuruma, which shares similar handling and speed characteristics.

Most players find the Sultan better suited for missions that require precision driving or quick getaways. Its AWD system allows for easier handling on slippery or uneven terrain, something most standard sedans struggle with. The soft suspension means it can roll over more easily during sharp turns, but its quick handling compensates for this in normal driving conditions.

Another aspect many players notice is its versatility in modifications. GTA 5 allows players to add visual upgrades, performance tuning, and even turbo enhancements, which can make a stock Sultan feel like a racing machine. This level of customization contributes to its enduring popularity.

Can You Buy the Sultan or GTA 5 Cars Online?

In GTA Online, the Sultan is widely available for purchase and modification. While there are numerous sources for cars in-game, some players also consider external options. It’s important to note that phrases like buy GTA 5 Accounts online often appear in discussions, but these are unrelated to legitimate in-game purchases. Most players stick to in-game stores and missions to acquire cars, as external account purchases carry risks, including bans or account issues.

Tips for Driving the Sultan Effectively

Use AWD to your advantage: Cornering and sliding are easier than with most other sedans.

Upgrade carefully: Turbochargers and chassis modifications can drastically improve speed and handling.

Mind braking: Plan ahead for stops, as the Sultan brakes slower than expected.

Take advantage of interior visibility: Unlike some sports cars, the Sultan allows for better driver awareness during street chases.

In general, these tips make the Sultan a practical and enjoyable choice for most players, whether in missions, street races, or free roam.

Looking Ahead: GTA VI Expectations

Based on leaks and trailers, the Sultan in GTA VI will likely retain its core traits: speed, AWD stability, and versatility. The updated design, new interior, and visual tweaks suggest Rockstar is aiming to modernize the car while keeping it recognizable for long-time fans. Players who enjoyed the Sultan in GTA 5 can expect a similar driving experience, with the potential for new mechanics and performance improvements tailored to Vice City’s streets.

Overall, the Sultan has become more than just a car—it’s a reliable tool for gameplay that rewards both casual drivers and speed-focused players. Its consistent presence from GTA IV to GTA VI demonstrates its importance in the series’ vehicle lineup.