Gran Turismo 7 Update 1.49 Brings Important Change!

PD launched Update 1.49, introducing several new features and modifications to the game. Here is a comprehensive examination of the major changes and their effect on the gameplay.

New Track and Cars

One of the most exciting additions is the new track Eiger Norwand, which has been well-received for its design and scenery. Alongside this, six new cars have been introduced, including the 1998 Subaru rally car, enhancing the diversity and going even deeper into the most important icons of car culture.

New Events and Menus

The new features in the update also add additional events to the World Circuits mode, like the European Sunday Cup 500 and World Rally Challenge Gr.B at the Eiger Nordwand Reverse track. A new menu called "Collection: McLaren" has been introduced for collectors as an addition.

Sophy, the advanced AI agent from Gran Turismo, can now be used on additional tracks such as the Nürburgring 24h and Autodrome Lago Maggiore. This introduces an added level of difficulty to competing against AI competitors.

Physics Overhaul

The most substantial change in Update 1.49 is the new physics model, which has completely transformed the game's driving dynamics. This is my brief explanation of the physics change we had.

Tyres and Grip Level

Performance Drop-off: Tyres experience a significant drop in performance, which means pit strategies and tyre management have become even more critical. Making it crucial to manage them carefully during longer races or races with high tyre multipliers.

Handling: There's an increase in both understeer and oversteer. Drivers will notice both oversteer and understeer when entering or exiting corners. Both depend on the corner entry technique.Just one little tweak in while turning the wheel sooner that it’s needed may cause understeer, while trail braking or starting to turn the wheel too quickly can make the car oversteer on entry, demanding more precise steering inputs.

Front Grip and Response: The front tyres provide a more direct response during corners, enhancing the driving feel. But we need to be careful about what car and on what tires are being used.

Traction: Traction has improved, making acceleration out of corners more reliable. But again, this depends on the car and if the weight transfer is done in the right way. 

Sliding and Tyre Wear: Sliding on corner entry, especially if turning the wheel too soon, increases front tyre wear. Rear tyres, however, are less affected by sliding. Even doing donuts won’t affect the rear tyres that much, while rapid change of direction can have a significant effect on the front tyres. 

Braking Bias

Impact of Adjustments: Changes to the braking bias now have a more noticeable effect on cars stability, adapting braking techniques for optimal performance is more important than before

Stability: Adjusting the braking bias can significantly influence the car's stability, making it more sensitive to precise adjustments.

Force Feedback (FFB)

Enhanced Detail: The force feedback has been improved, providing more detailed information. However, the overall strength of the FFB has been lowered. I had to increase it by 60% with some cars.

FFB issue: Most Fanatec wheels need to update to beta driver 457. You can find it here.

Driver 457

Assists

Performance: Assists will result in slightly slower lap times. While the core mechanics of assists haven't changed, their effectiveness has been reduced due to the new physics model.

General Observations

Understeer and Oversteer: The new physics model demands a more controlled driving approach, balancing the increased understeer and oversteer.

Force Feedback Issues: Some players have experienced issues with force feedback, which can be resolved by updating to the latest beta firmware from the manufacturer.

Tyre Management: Tyre management has become more critical, with significant performance drops as tyres wear. Front tyre wear is particularly exposed when sliding into corners.

Lap Times and Car Behavior: Lap times and car behaviour have changed, with cars feeling heavier and requiring earlier braking. Sometimes even significantly earlier than usual.

Conclusion

Update 1.49 has brought significant changes to Gran Turismo 7, particularly in terms of physics and car handling. While some adjustments are needed to fully optimize these changes, they represent a positive step towards a more realistic and engaging racing experience. Players will need to adapt their driving styles to the new dynamics, but overall, these changes promise to enhance the depth and realism of the game.