Abstract: A power steering gear mechanism for an automotive vehicle having a pressure operated vehicle steering mechanism controlled by a rotary valve with primary and secondary valve portions located in angularly spaced relationship on a common transverse reference plane wherein the primary valve portion develops a fast-rising steering pressure characteristic for incremental changes in steering torque at low driving speeds and a flatter or more gradual steering pressure rise characteristic for incremental changes in steering torque at high driving speeds, the latter resulting from the action of the secondary valve portion which functions in cooperation with the primary valve portion whereby the pressure versus torque relationship is optimized for parking maneuvers, for driving maneuvers and for center-feel, the change from the low speed steering mode to the high speed steering mode being gradual whereby the center-feel increases in proportion to increasing road speed.