What differentiates understeer from oversteer in vehicle handling?

The distinction between understeer and oversteer is primarily linked to how a vehicle responds to steering input during a turn. Understeer occurs when the front tires lose grip before the rear tires, causing the vehicle to turn less than the driver intends. This can happen when the vehicle is traveling too fast for the given turn and results in a wider path than expected, meaning the car doesn't follow the intended trajectory.

On the other hand, oversteer occurs when the rear tires lose grip, leading the vehicle to turn more sharply than the driver has turned the steering wheel. This situation can result in the rear end of the car swinging out, potentially causing the vehicle to spin if not corrected.

Thus, the correct answer accurately identifies that understeer is characterized by a vehicle turning less than expected, while oversteer leads to a situation where the vehicle turns more than intended. This understanding is crucial for emergency response driving, where controlling the vehicle effectively is vital for safety and maneuverability on the road.