Gran Turismo 7 Update 1.55: A Deep Dive into the New Content and Adjustments
Polyphony Digital continues its commitment to refining the Gran Turismo 7 experience with the release of update 1.55. This latest iteration delivers a robust package of new content, including a selection of exciting vehicles, enhancements to the AI-powered Gran Turismo Sophy, additions to the World Circuits and Café menus, and a wealth of adjustments to the game’s physics, handling, and assists. Let’s break down the key features and changes introduced in this update.
New Cars Grace the Garages
One of the most anticipated aspects of any Gran Turismo update is the arrival of new vehicles. Update 1.55 brings a diverse collection of cars to the game, catering to a variety of tastes and driving styles.
- Gran Turismo F3500-A: This addition promises a unique open-wheel driving experience, designed specifically for the virtual world of Gran Turismo. Expect a high-revving engine and nimble handling, perfect for mastering technical circuits.
- Honda Civic Si Extra (EF) ’87: A classic from the golden age of Japanese performance cars, the Civic Si Extra (EF) offers a nostalgic driving experience with its lightweight chassis and rev-happy engine. This car can be found at the Used Cars dealership.
- Hyundai IONIQ 5 N ’24: This all-electric performance SUV represents the future of driving, blending cutting-edge technology with exhilarating performance. The IONIQ 5 N showcases Hyundai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle capabilities.
- Toyota C-HR S ’18: A stylish and practical crossover, the Toyota C-HR S adds another everyday option to the Gran Turismo garage. While not a track weapon, its unique design and comfortable handling make it a fun choice for cruising and exploring the game’s diverse environments.
Gran Turismo Sophy Expands its Horizons
Gran Turismo Sophy, the revolutionary AI driver developed by Sony AI, continues to evolve and expand its presence in Gran Turismo 7. With update 1.55, Sophy is now implemented on two new tracks:
- Autódromo de Interlagos: The iconic Brazilian circuit, known for its challenging layout and passionate atmosphere, now plays host to Sophy’s advanced AI.
- Mount Panorama: This legendary Australian track, also known as Bathurst, presents a formidable challenge with its steep inclines, blind corners, and unforgiving walls. Sophy’s ability to navigate this treacherous circuit demonstrates its impressive learning capabilities.
It’s important to note that the Gran Turismo Sophy mode remains exclusive to the PlayStation 5 version of Gran Turismo 7, leveraging the console’s processing power to deliver a truly next-generation AI experience.
World Circuits and Café Additions
Update 1.55 brings new events to the World Circuits, offering players fresh challenges and opportunities to earn rewards. These new events include:
- Autódromo de Interlagos – World Touring Car 600: A high-speed touring car race on the challenging Interlagos circuit.
- Sardegna – Road Track – Japanese FF Challenge 450: A front-wheel-drive showdown on the scenic Sardegnan road track.
- Kyoto Driving Park – Sunday Cup: A relaxed and accessible race for beginners on the charming Kyoto Driving Park circuit.
The Café also receives an update with the addition of a new Extra Menu:
- Extra Menu No.43: Collection: Group C (Collector Level 48): This menu focuses on the iconic Group C race cars of the 1980s and 1990s, allowing players to collect and learn about these legendary machines.
Tuning and Customization Enhancements
The GT Auto section has been expanded with the highly requested addition of engine swaps for several vehicles. Unlocked at Collector Level 50, players can now swap engines on the following cars:
- Alpine A110 1600S ’72
- Citroën DS 21 Pallas ’70
- Honda Civic Si Extra (EF) ’87
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR GSR ’04
- Porsche 356 A/1500 GS GT Carrera Speedster ’56
- Porsche 911 GT3 RS (992) ’22
- Renault R5 Turbo ’80
- Renault R8 Gordini ’66
- Subaru Impreza Sedan WRX STi ’04
This feature allows for deeper customization and experimentation, enabling players to create unique and powerful builds.
Physics and Handling Refinements
Polyphony Digital has made a number of significant adjustments to the game’s physics and handling model in update 1.55. These changes aim to improve the overall driving experience and provide a more realistic and engaging simulation.
- Suspension System Adjustments: The behavioral model for suspension systems has been refined to reduce sudden changes in behavior when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces, resulting in a smoother and more predictable ride.
- Tire Physics Simulation Model Adjustments: Adjustments have been made to load dependency while cornering, grip loss on racing lines on wet surfaces has been reduced, and the impact of dirty tires from off-track excursions has been lessened, with faster recovery of grip when returning to the track.
- Car Performance Adjustments: Performance has been adjusted for the Toyota Aqua S ’11 and Toyota Prius G ’09.
- Handling Updates: Adjustments have been made to default aerodynamic settings for Gr.1 cars and some race cars, as well as to the default suspension and differential settings for some road cars.
- Controller Updates: The wireless controller steering algorithm has been improved, resulting in better handling when using the analogue sticks or the directional pad. Updates have also been made to the controller behavior for steering wheels, with improved steering geometry calculation and torque settings for formula cars.
- Driving Assist Optimization: The Traction Control (TCS) assist intervention has been optimized, and corner braking control for ABS (anti-lock brakes) has been optimized.
Additional Improvements and Adjustments
In addition to the major features and changes listed above, update 1.55 also includes a number of other improvements and adjustments:
- Museum entries were added for AMG and MINI in Brand Central.
- "Chromatic Drive" is now a featured Curation in Scapes.
- The difficulty level of certain race events in World Circuits has been adjusted.
- The target times for all Circuit Experience and License events have been adjusted, and all demonstration replays have been updated. All rankings boards have been reset.
- All Missions rankings boards have been reset.
- The maximum value of the Driver Rating (DR) has been increased in Sport mode.
- The lineup of tire stickers has been changed for the Dallara SF23 Super Formula cars.
- Various localization issues have been fixed.
- Various other issues have been addressed.
Final Thoughts
Gran Turismo 7 update 1.55 represents another significant step forward in the game’s evolution. The addition of new cars, the expansion of Gran Turismo Sophy, the enhancements to tuning and customization, and the refinements to the physics and handling model all contribute to a more comprehensive and engaging driving experience. Polyphony Digital’s continued commitment to addressing player feedback and refining the game ensures that Gran Turismo 7 remains a leading force in the racing simulation genre.
