It isn't intentional, that's just the physics of low friction on steep slopes. But you're right, nearly everyone starts by immediately seeing how far off-road they can drive, so it wouldn't be a bad idea to better support that :)
Some underwater features would be nice for people that likes to try silly things.
[Note: It was difficult to reach the water. Most of the time it has some protection, that makes it more realistic. But I finally found a part without protection :) . )
