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
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
Porsche 904 Carrera GTS
Mazda 3
Toyota Alphard Executive Lounge
Nürburgring
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:
Full physics changes notes: