- Spec II Transformation: Update 1.40 serves as the “Spec II” overhaul, introducing the “Gran Turismo Sophy 2.0” AI agent and a massive expansion of the endgame via Weekly Challenges.
- New High-Performance Roster: Adds seven iconic vehicles, including the legendary Lexus LFA ’10, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS (992) ’22, and the Tesla Model 3 Performance.
- Technical Milestones: Introduces the Lake Louise snow track (requires Collector Level 22) and expands local multiplayer to 4-player split-screen exclusively for the PlayStation 5.
The roar of the Lexus LFA’s high-revving V10 isn’t just a sound; it’s a statement of intent for the “Spec II” era of Gran Turismo 7. While other racing titles like The Crew Motorfest Update 1.24 focus on seasonal festival shifts, Polyphony Digital’s Update 1.40—originally deployed on November 2, 2023—remains the structural bedrock for the game’s current 2026 performance standards. This update transitioned the title from a standard sequel into a massive, living simulation, correcting the trajectory of its endgame content and AI sophistication.
Crucially, despite lingering rumors of multi-platform expansion, Gran Turismo 7 Update 1.40 is available exclusively for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. The update leverages the unique haptic feedback of the DualSense controller, a feature also optimized in other 2026 performance patches like the Dying Light Update 1.51, to simulate the treacherous grip of the newly added snow surfaces.
New Vehicles: The Spec II Roster
The 1.40 patch introduced a diverse array of machinery, spanning from classic American muscle to cutting-edge electric performance. The highlight for many remains the Lexus LFA, a car frequently requested since the game’s launch. The full list includes:
- Dodge Charger R/T 426 Hemi ’68: A pillar of the Legend Cars dealership.
- Dodge Challenger SRT Demon ’18: Built for the drag strip, now refined for the circuit.
- Lexus LFA ’10: A masterpiece of Japanese engineering and acoustic design.
- Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II ’91: A DTM legend for the modern era.
- NISMO 400R ’95: One of the rarest R33 Skyline iterations.
- Porsche 911 GT3 RS (992) ’22: The pinnacle of naturally aspirated aero-efficiency.
- Tesla Model 3 Performance ’23: Representing the rapid evolution of EV racing.
PRO TIP: SNOW PHYSICS
With the addition of Lake Louise, players must purchase Snow Tires from the Tuning Shop. Note that the 2024 physics engine overhaul significantly altered tire deformation; as of 2026, snow drifting requires much more delicate throttle modulation than in the initial 1.40 release.
Lake Louise: A New Frontier in the Americas
Update 1.40 marked the debut of Lake Louise, a fictional snowy circuit located in the Canadian Rockies. This addition forced a rewrite of the game’s traction control logic. Players can explore six distinct layouts, ranging from the technical “Long Track” to the high-speed “Tri-Oval.” Unlocking this track requires Collector Level 22, ensuring players have sufficient experience with low-grip environments before tackling the ice.
AI Revolution: Gran Turismo Sophy 2.0
For PlayStation 5 users, the 1.40 update integrated a prototype version of Gran Turismo Sophy into the new “Quick Race” mode. Unlike traditional “rubber-banding” AI, Sophy utilizes deep reinforcement learning to react to player movements, defend lines, and execute overtakes with human-like precision. While limited to specific track and car combinations in this patch, it set the stage for the full AI integration seen in current 2026 gameplay loops.
Master Licenses and Endgame Content
To provide veterans with fresh challenges, Polyphony added the Master Licenses. These are unlocked only after completing the standard License Center requirements. These events demand near-perfect execution and serve as the ultimate test of the game’s nuanced physics model.
| Feature | PS4 Support | PS5 Support |
|---|---|---|
| 7 New Cars & Lake Louise | Yes | Yes (Enhanced) |
| GT Sophy 2.0 AI | No | Yes |
| 4-Player Split-Screen | No | Yes |
| Master Licenses | Yes | Yes |
Multiplayer and Quality of Life
The transition from “Meeting Place” to the Paddock enhanced the social aspect of the game, allowing for more streamlined communication between races. Additionally, the 1.40 update addressed several localization bugs and adjusted the viewable range in the VR Showroom for the Toyota Ambulance Himedic ’21, a crucial fix for the growing PSVR2 community. For a deep dive into the official technical documentation, refer to the official Gran Turismo 1.40 announcement.
“Spec II represents more than a patch; it is a recalibration of what a console simulator can achieve mid-lifecycle.” — Kazunori Yamauchi, Polyphony Digital.
As we navigate the competitive landscape of 2026 racing, the structural integrity provided by Update 1.40 continues to hold firm. Whether you are chasing “Gold” in the Master Licenses or tuning the Demon for the drag strip, the depth of this update remains unparalleled in the genre.
