Gran Turismo 7 | 1.31 update brings 120Hz, physics changes and a powerful brick


Gran Turismo 7 just got its monthly update, and it brings interesting things: an eclectic selection of new cars, 2 new Nürburgring layouts, a variety of physics update and 120 Hz compatibility.

Audi RS5 Turbo DTM​

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The 5 new cars this month are all very different, and some are quite surprising. Most people will probably be looking forward to the first one more: Audi’s 2019 entry to DTM (back when the category was still Class One and tried to merge with Super GT), the RS5 Turbo. This is the first modern DTM car in GT7, competing in the game’s own Gr.2 class against GT500 cars, and 90s GT1 cars.

Porsche 959​

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Next up is one of the most iconic 80s supercar, often opposed to the F40: the Porsche 959. This car was truly groundbreaking in regards to technology at the time, with things such as an electronically controlled 4WD system, active suspension, tyre pressure sensors, hollow magnesium wheels, and the combined use of aluminium, kevlar and nomex for the body, chassis and floor. Porsche originally developed the 959 with the intention of entering the group B world rally championship, but as history knows, they were never going to be able to do that. The 959 was thrown into the desert heat instead and scored a 1-2 finish in the 1986 edition of the Paris Dakar.

Porsche 904 Carrera GTS​

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A second Porsche trails along in this update: the 904 Carrera GTS, which is literally a race car that was also homologated for road use. The 904 also has its fair share of history in rally, and is still commonly seen in historic and regularity events, where it stands out not only against the regular drivers in modern cars, but also between the other historic cars. The car we’re getting in game is the earliest 1964 version, with the original flat-4 2.0 engine intended for the chassis. Other variants later appeared with flat-6 and even flat-8 2.0 engines, not without creating issues. The small and light 4 cylinder car though was known for its performances and reliability, winning major endurance races and rally events.

Mazda 3​

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Players will also be able to get their hands on the latest model of Mazda 3 in its highest trim, powered by the high compression, naturally aspirated 2.0 4 cylinder SkyActiv-X engine. It is quite singular, as it is a petrol engine which functions almost like a diesel. This allows the engine to output 180 hp and 221 Nm while maintaining good gas mileage and low emissions. The Burgundy Selection version included in the game benefits for an all-wheel drive system.

Toyota Alphard Executive Lounge​

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Finally, the most unexpected, but also most interesting addition to the roster in a weird way, is the Toyota Alphard Executive Lounge. The 7 seater van is labeled as a “Super Luxury” vehicle, marketed towards the type of people who outside of Asian markets would probably shop for a Bentley or Rolls Royce. It features a 3.5 naturally aspirated V6 producing 300hp that can help it run from standstill to 100 kph (0 – 62 mph) in 7.5 seconds, which is enough to beat things driven by teenagers trying to impress girls. The sight of this literally brick-shaped thing duking it out against hot hatches should be pretty interesting.

Nürburgring​

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You will be able to bring these cars on new versions of the Nürburgring. GT7 finally allows you to run the shorter version of the GP and Endurance tracks, using the alternate hairpin located right after the famous stadium section. The reason why those layouts weren’t available in the beginning is mysterious, but the essential is we can now enjoy them.

120Hz Mode​

More than just content, 1.31 gives us a very interesting technical update by bringing a 120Hz mode, and VRR compatibility (Variable Refresh Rate – mostly known as Freesync or Gsync depending on which GPU manufacturer it is tied to). This means a much smoother experience while exploring and driving in GT7, but like the Sophy events of last month, only PS5 users will be able to benefit from those advantages, and at the condition of having a supported monitor or TV with these features. It seems like 120Hz is achieved through reprojection, which would be derived from the VR technology, and explain how 120Hz is available even at 4k.

Physics​

Under the hood, a decent number of modifications have been done to the physics. This includes suspension geometry calculation model, suspension damping, several tyre model changes, updated aerodynamics data for formula cars and relation between drag / downforce and ride height, as well as different assist behavior, default setups on cars and pad steering algorithm. BoP has completely changed for the main classes as well, with Gr.3 cars for instance pretty much all losing power.

Dynamic Balance​

Overall, dynamic balance have changed, with race cars feeling like they have more turn in, while tuned road cars are actually much less darty on entry. Lateral grip on all tyres have decreased, with traction being a bit lower, but loss of traction seemingly more progressive. Curbs feel more slippery, but don't give much force feedback effects anymore. Expect your lap times to be about 2 seconds a lap slower on average. ABS seems more consistent, and the lowest setting of traction control is much less intrusive now, and feels very effective, especially in the rain. The tyre seem to wear and overheat less than before.

Keyboard controls​

A seemingly small, but very nice quality of life feature has also been added back in the form of keyboard controls while spectating in online lobbies, including instant replays (although it is already bugged as it always bring back full HUD when you use it). This is pretty massive for league organizers, broadcasters and content creators who asked for the feature to return since GT7 came out.

Overall, 1.31 is a pretty big update for Gran Turismo, and active players will need a bit of time to take in the physics changes and adapt to them. Don't hesitate to share your feelings about those and the rest of the update in the comments!

Full patch notes:

Main Features Implemented​

1. Cars
 - The following five new cars have been added:
  ・Audi RS 5 Turbo DTM '19
  ・Mazda 3 X Burgundy Selection '19
  ・Porsche 959 '87 (Purchasable at 'Legend Cars' from 30 March)
  ・Porsche Carrera GTS (904) '64 (Purchasable at 'Legend Cars' from 30 March)
  ・Toyota Alphard Executive Lounge '18

2. Tracks
 - The following two layouts have been added to the Nürburgring:
  ・Nürburgring Endurance
  ・Nürburgring Sprint

3. World Circuits
 - The following new events have been added to 'World Circuits':
  ・Nürburgring
   - Japanese 4WD Challenge 600
   - World Touring Cars 800
  ・Kyoto Driving Park
   - Porsche Cup
  ・Tokyo Expressway
   - Japanese 4WD Challenge 600

4. Scapes
 - The 'Sakura' location has been added as a featured Curation in Scapes.

5. Café
 - The following two Extra Menus have been added:
  ・Extra Menu No. 18: 'Collection: Toyota Family Cars' (Collector Level 28 and above);
  ・Extra Menu No. 19: 'Collection: Ford GT' (Collector Level 44 and above);

 - Added new sets of conversations with the Car Designers and Characters appearing in the Café. These new conversations can be accessed by changing to the following cars in 'Garage' and speaking with the Characters in the Café:

  CAR DESIGNERS(In alphabetical order)
   - Mr. Freeman Thomas
    ・Porsche Spyder type 550/1500RS '55
    ・Porsche 911 Turbo (930) '81
    ・Porsche 911 RSR (991) '17

   - Mr. Fabio Filippini
    ・Ferrari 512 BB '76
    ・Nissan Silvia K's Dia Selection (S13) '90
    ・Nissan Silvia Q's (S13) '88
    ・Renault Clio V6 24V '00

  CHARACTERS
  - Jeremy
    ・Audi RS 5 Turbo DTM '19
    ・Porsche Carrera GTS (904) '64
    ・Porsche 959 '87

  - Stella
    ・Mazda 3 X Burgundy Selection '19
    ・Toyota Alphard Executive Lounge '18

6. Display Settings
 - Support for 120 Hz Output and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) have been added. Please refer to the following page to learn more about the settings on compatible devices: https://www.gran-turismo.com/world/gt7/manual/option/01

7. Multiplayer
 - A 'Keyboard Camera Switching Feature' has been added to the Lobby races. Please refer to the following page to learn more about the details: https://www.gran-turismo.com/world/gt7/manual/multiplayer/07

8. Sport
 - In the Online Championships, different Leagues will have different penalty settings and race regulations. For the '2022/23 Exhibition Series - Season 4,' the race schedule for GT2 and GT3 League will feature more entry slots to allow for a wider participation at different time of the day.

Other Improvements and Adjustments​

1. Physics Simulation Model
 - The car physics simulation model has been adjusted. Please refer to the following page to learn more about the details: https://www.gran-turismo.com/world/gt7/news/00_1462138.html
 - Adjusted the effect of 'Traction Control,' 'ABS,' 'Active Stability Management,' and 'Countersteering Assistance' in the Assist Settings;
 - Changed some of the default settings for the Assist Presets in the Assist Settings as follows:
  ・Intermediate
    Countersteering Assistance: Strong → Weak
    Traction Control: 5 → 3
  ・ Expert
    Countersteering Assistance: Strong → Off

If 'Intermediate' or 'Expert' had been selected prior to the update, the settings will not be overwritten, but the Assist Preset will change to 'Custom' instead;
 - Adjusted the Performance Points (PP) of some cars;
 - Fixed the incorrect display of the toe angle adjustment in Car Settings.

2. Legend Cars
 - Legend Cars (Hagerty Collection) prices have been revised based on real-life valuations from Gran Turismo partner, Hagerty.

Hagerty provides valuations and vehicle insurance for classic cars and has sponsored some historic car events in recent years.

New prices will be applied the next time a vehicle goes on sale. The next price revision is scheduled for June 2023.

- Changed the manufacturer of the CLK-LM '98 from 'AMG' to 'Mercedes-Benz.'

3. World Circuits
 - Adjusted the target times for all events within the Circuit Experience, and the demonstrations have been updated accordingly. In addition, ranking boards for all events have been reset.
 - Adjusted settings for the 'Pickup Truck Race' on the following tracks:
  ・ Willow Springs Raceway
  ・ Daytona International Speedway
  ・ Colorado Springs (PP recommended values have changed)
 - Adjusted the settings for the 'World Touring Car 600' on the following track:
  ・ Tokyo Expressway
 - Fixed an issue wherein the Race Shop was not available in some cases at the Meeting Places.

4. Licence Centre
 - Adjusted the target times for all events in the Licence tests, and the demonstrations have been updated accordingly. In addition, all event ranking boards have been reset.

5. Missions
 - Adjusted the settings for the following events:
  Rolling Stone
   ・Drag Race '0-400m Acceleration Battle 1'

  Moby Dick
   ・Drag Race '0-400m Acceleration Battle 2'

  Gone with the Wind
   ・Drag Race '0-400m Acceleration Battle 3'

  The Sun Also Rises
   ・Drag Race '0-1000m Acceleration Battle 1'

  The Human Comedy
   ・Autopolis One Hour
   ・Kyoto Driving Park One Hour
   ・Deep Forest Raceway One Hour
   ・Alsace One Hour
   ・Lake Maggiore Circuit One Hour

Additionally, the ranking boards for the above drag races have been reset.

6. Scapes
 - The 'Avatar' driver will now be selected as default when an onboard driver is enabled.

7. Home
 - Fixed an issue wherein the online ID was displayed instead of the nickname on the car body during Scapes movies and the VR showroom.

8. Race Display
 - Added a 'Track Map' display to the Pit Menu.

9. Localisation
 - Fixed various text localisation issues.

10. Others
 - Various other issues have been addressed.

Full physics changes notes:
■ Suspension Physics
 ・Adjusted the calculations model of the suspension geometry. This will improve stability of the car orientation during braking, and the traction during acceleration;
 ・Adjusted the damping characteristics of the suspensions. This will improve stability of the car when driving over bumps and kerbs.

■ Tyre Physics
 ・ Improved stability when turning in low speed corners and over kerbstones;
 ・Optimised the tyre heating and wear model;
 ・Optimised the aquaplaning effect on wet surfaces.

■ Aerodynamics
 ・Updated the aerodynamics data for formula cars;
 ・Optimised the downforce and air resistance in relation to the vehicle ride height.

■ Anti-Lag System
 ・Introduced a limiter to prevent the engine RPM from rising too much while stopped.

■ Car Initial Settings
 ・Changed the initial settings of the suspension and aerodynamics on race cars and certain road cars;
 ・Adjusted the Performance Points (PP) of various cars in the game.

■ Wireless Controller Handling (Steering)
 ・Handling of cars have been improved by adjusting the steering algorithm when using the controller's stick or directional buttons.

■ Wireless Controller Handling (Force feedback)
 ・Handling of cars while steering and information gained from the force feedback should now be improved by adjusting the force feedback algorithm.

■ Assist Settings
 ・Changed some of the default settings for the Assist Presets in the Assist Settings as follows:
  INTERMEDIATE
   Countersteering Assistance: changed from 'Strong' to 'Weak';
   Traction Control: changed from '5' to '3'.
  EXPERT
   Countersteering Assistance: changed from 'Strong' to 'Off.'

  If 'Intermediate' or 'Expert' had been selected prior to Update 1.31, the settings will not be overwritten, but the Assist Preset will change to 'Custom' instead.

 ・Controls for the Traction Control (TCS) have been adjusted. The amount of intervention when set to '1' has been reduced, and increased when set to '5';
 ・Controls for the ABS (Antilock Brakes System) have been adjusted. This has improved stability under full braking situations;
 ・Controls for the Active Stability Management have been adjusted. The amount of intervention when oversteering has been increased to improve stability;
 ・Controls for the Countersteering Assistance have been adjusted. The amount of intervention while oversteering has been reduced, now making the amount of orientation change milder.
About author
GT-Alex
Global motorsports enjoyer, long time simracer, Gran Turismo veteran, I've been driving alongside top drivers since the dawn of online pro leagues on Gran Turismo, and qualified for the only cancelled FIA GTC World Tour. I've left aside competitive driving in 2020 to dedicate myself to IGTL, a simracing organisation hosting high quality events for pro racers and customers, to create with friends the kind of events we wished we could have had. We strive to provide the best events for drivers and the best content for viewers, and want to help the simracing scene grow and shine further in the global esports scene.

Comments

Not an GT7 player but jaleous of the Mazda models too and still waiting for the day when a Mazda 3 & 6 arrive in FH5.... :) Or the latest Vision concept..... what a killer design :confused:
 
A minivan... why? (and not the Renault Espace F1) I don't miss that about GT games. I don't have to drive Kei cars and pretend to be excited about a 3 cylinder Daihatsu. I drive a 100 hp race car in real life and it just doesn't translate into sim racing. Minimum 250hp on any car that weighs more than 1500 lbs in a sim...
 
Would love a PC release for this title.
I'm not sure you would. GT7 is not good and arguably the worst in the numbered series. There is a lack of any career mode specially in a linear sense of low value cars to high value cars. Sure you have to buy a cheap car at first but in no time they're giving you free corvettes and race cars. The menu book concept is a complete flop. And at it's very core, the cars are lifeless, the FFB is abhorrent. The one thing it does well is taking pictures of digital cars over real pictures of scenery. Which is something most people probably couldn't care less about including myself.
Everything on PC pretty much surpasses this in spades.
 
Premium
Not really interested in using a car that's awkward and out of class but sits in a fantasy BOP. not really interested interested in 120 hertz as I only have a pathetic PS4 that I purchased especially for this game, not really interested in having to redo my finely tuned suspension set up to get the few cars I drive in the game to drive how I like them...
I am however interested in PD putting some semblance of care into the product that seems to have gone unaddressed since the dawn of Historic/Classic cars in the game,
I don't want to fit soft racing slicks to my 1930 sports touring cars, I don't want to fit 'chips' to my Cobra, I don't want to be shown inappropriate brakes for my classics.

I would like to be able to change the rotation of my G29 from 900 to perhaps a third of that lock to lock, I can do it on a PC but not the PS4, no way can I catch a drift without that.
I want to keep it (a bit) real.
But truthfully, I was all played out before Christmas and I've not really touched it since
 
Premium
The fact that a designer and programer even wasted 1 second of time to put this POS in the game just go to show u that the creators of GT7 have their heads up their A_S. I mean really was anyone saying to themselves please add a POS minivan to the car list I am jus dying to drive one of these.
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I don't get it. If its an almost unplayable PC "sim", everybody is clapping and saying how great it is that the devs "support" the game and keep "developing". PD does the same, and they get nothing but flack.

Sure, i think this game should have been more like the GTs of old, but still, its nice to see PD caring, even about physics.
 
PD does the same, and they get nothing but flack.

Sure, i think this game should have been more like the GTs of old, but still, its nice to see PD caring, even about physics.
I agree. Credit where credit is due. :)

Some of the critics in here also seem to miss the online competition aspect of GT7 (which is very much like GT Sport). The driving physics aren't the height of realism (to say the least) but the races simulate the competitive aspect of racing quite well, even allowing for pit strategy and such in longer races. It's not worth the cost of a whole PS5 to play it (hence why I've not tried the game personally) but there is plenty of merit to it. Almost seems like a sim-lite iRacing alternative for console.
 
Premium
I agree. Credit where credit is due. :)

Some of the critics in here also seem to miss the online competition aspect of GT7 (which is very much like GT Sport). The driving physics aren't the height of realism (to say the least) but the races simulate the competitive aspect of racing quite well, even allowing for pit strategy and such in longer races. It's not worth the cost of a whole PS5 to play it (hence why I've not tried the game personally) but there is plenty of merit to it. Almost seems like a sim-lite iRacing alternative for console.
What do you cater for?
1: 80% of your customers that have already paid you and don't play on-line
2: 20% of your customers that paid for the game and are giving monthly subs to play on-line
I know the business side of me says "2" but the consumers side of me says "your taking the micky guys, I feel let down"
 

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