Gran Turismo 7’s Update 1.56, released in February 2025, came on the heels of the 1.55 update release and implemented several new features and improvements. One of the standouts of this update was the addition of several new cars, including the BMW Z4 3.0i '03, the Peugeot 205 GTI '88, and notably the Mercedes-Benz Unimog Type 411 '62. The addition of these new cars offered players a mix of modern performance and classic nostalgia, catering to a variety of racing preferences.
Sophy and world circuits
Alongside the new cars, Update 1.56 also brought additions to GT 7’s tracks. For example, Sophy (only available on the PlayStation 5 Version of the game) is now implemented in the Autodromo Nationale Monza as well as Sardegna – Road Track – B layouts.
Furthermore, new events were added to “World Circuits” to give players fresh challenges to master, including:
- Red Bull Ring Short Track - Sunday Cup Classic
- Grand Valles South Reverse – European Sunday Cup 400
Improvements to physics
Update 1.56 addressed several gameplay issues to improve realism and car handling. It fixed an issue where cars would move erratically during Scapes movies and pit stops, ensuring smoother animations. Additionally, a problem was resolved where stopping on a slight slope would cause a car to rotate unexpectedly. The update also reduced an issue where performing a hard brake under certain conditions would cause the rear of a car to lift up significantly, improving the stability and control during braking maneuvers.
Café
Another change implemented is the addition of a new Extra Menu, Extra Menu No.44: 'Collection: Peugeot,' which becomes available at Collector Level 36. Additionally, new sets of conversations with the Car Designers and Characters in the Café were added. These conversations can be accessed by switching to specific cars in the 'Garage' and then speaking with the Characters in the Café, offering players more interaction and deeper insight into the vehicles and their design.
Notable car designers featured in the update include Hideo Kodama, responsible for the Alpine A220 Race Car '68, Freeman Thomas, who designed the Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition (FK8) '20, and Tom Matano, the designer of the Honda Civic Type R (EK) '99.
Performance improvements
The update also addressed an issue where the force feedback vibration effect would be inconsistent on each side of the steering controllers, ensuring a more balanced and realistic feel. Additionally, the update reduced motor strain by lowering the output for certain wheel bases, helping to improve durability and prevent excessive wear. Lastly, the vibration effect for the Fanatec Gran Turismo® DD Extreme was toned down, creating a smoother and less intrusive experience for players using compatible controllers. These adjustments worked together to refine the overall force feedback, making the driving experience more enjoyable and responsive.
