Gran Turismo 7 Review – The Ultimate Driving Simulator Experience

Gran Turismo 7 isn't just another racing game — it's a love letter to automotive culture, a technical showcase for the PlayStation 5, and quite possibly the most comprehensive driving simulator ever created. After spending over 200 hours with the game, exploring every corner of its vast world, we've put together this Gran Turismo 7 Review that goes beyond the surface to give you the full picture.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran who remembers the original Gran Turismo on the PS1, or a newcomer drawn in by the promise of next-gen graphics, this review will help you decide if GT7 deserves a spot in your collection. We'll cover everything from the physics engine to the car list, from engine swap mechanics to the system requirements for those playing on PC via remote play, and we'll share exclusive tips gathered from the UK racing community.

1. 🏆 Gran Turismo 7 Overview – A New Era for Racing Simulators

Gran Turismo 7, released in March 2022, represents the culmination of everything Polyphony Digital has learned over 25 years. It's the eighth mainline entry in the series (if we're counting properly) and the first proper numbered sequel since Gran Turismo 6 back in 2013. The game was designed from the ground up to leverage the power of the PlayStation 5, with haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, 3D audio, and lightning-fast loading times.

But GT7 is more than just a technical showcase. It's a return to the series' roots — a game that respects the past while embracing the future. The single-player campaign, known as GT World, is structured around a series of menus, events, and licenses, much like the early games. At the same time, the online component — Sport Mode — offers competitive racing with a focus on clean driving and sportsmanship.

One of the most striking things about Gran Turismo 7 is its visual fidelity. The ray-tracing implementation in replays and certain menus is nothing short of breathtaking. Car models are incredibly detailed, with every seam, badge, and reflection rendered with obsessive precision. The weather system, dynamic time-of-day, and track-side details all contribute to an immersive experience that few other games can match.

For those wondering about the Gran Turismo Film Running Time, the recently released movie adaptation offers a completely different but equally thrilling experience, running at 135 minutes. It's well worth a watch for any fan of the series.

2. 🎮 Gameplay & Physics – The Heart of the Experience

Let's get one thing straight: Gran Turismo 7 is not an arcade racer. If you're looking for something like Need for Speed or Forza Horizon, you're in the wrong place. GT7 is a simulator, and it takes itself seriously. The physics engine has been completely overhauled for this generation, with a particular focus on tyre modelling, suspension geometry, and aerodynamic simulation.

Every car feels different. A front-wheel-drive hatchback from the 1990s behaves exactly as you'd expect — understeer, body roll, and all. A rear-wheel-drive supercar, on the other hand, demands respect. The game doesn't forgive mistakes, but it also rewards skill and consistency. The learning curve is steep, but the satisfaction of nailing a lap is immense.

2.1 Controller vs. Wheel

We tested GT7 with both the DualSense controller and a Thrustmaster T-GT II racing wheel. The DualSense implementation is genuinely impressive — the haptic feedback simulates road surface textures, while the adaptive triggers provide resistance that changes depending on braking force and throttle application. That said, a proper racing wheel and pedal set takes the experience to another level. The force feedback is detailed and informative, allowing you to feel exactly what the car is doing.

2.2 The Licence System & Learning Curve

The licence tests are back, and they're as challenging as ever. From the humble National B licence all the way to the coveted Super licence, each test requires precision, patience, and practice. The game provides instructional videos and a helpful ghost car system that shows you the ideal racing line. Completing all licences is a rite of passage for any serious GT player.

🏅 Key Skills You'll Master:

• Trail braking — learning to brake and turn simultaneously
• Throttle control — especially important in powerful rear-wheel-drive cars
• Racing line optimisation — hitting the apex every time
• Pit strategy — tyre wear and fuel management in longer races

If you're looking for Gran Turismo 7 Tips, our dedicated guide covers advanced techniques like heel-and-toe downshifting, brake bias adjustment, and custom setup tuning. It's well worth a read if you want to shave seconds off your lap times.

3. 🚗 The Car List – Over 450 Machines to Collect

One of the defining features of any Gran Turismo game is its car list, and GT7 doesn't disappoint. With over 450 cars at launch (and more added through regular updates), the selection spans the entire history of the automobile. From the 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen to the latest hypercars, there's something for everyone.

The car list is divided into several categories: Brand Central (where you buy new cars from manufacturers), the Used Car Dealership (which rotates its stock daily), and Legendary Cars (rare and iconic vehicles that appear periodically). The Used Car Dealership is a particular highlight — it's where you'll find affordable gems from the 1980s and 1990s, perfect for tuning and modifying.

3.1 Notable Additions in 2025

Polyphony Digital has continued to support GT7 with monthly updates that add new cars, events, and features. Recent highlights include the Ferrari 499P (winner of the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans), the McLaren Solus GT, and the Aston Martin Valkyrie. The game now boasts over 500 cars, making it one of the most comprehensive collections in racing game history.

3.2 The Gran Turismo Games On Ps2 Legacy

For those who remember the Gran Turismo Games On Ps2 — GT3, GT4, and GT Concept — you'll be pleased to know that GT7 carries forward that same spirit of discovery and passion for cars. The GT Auto section lets you customise your vehicles with new wheels, body kits, and performance parts. The Scapes photo mode is also back, allowing you to photograph your cars in stunning real-world locations.

Fans of the Gran Turismo Filme Online will notice that many of the cars featured in the movie — including the Nissan GT-R, the Ferrari F8 Tributo, and the Porsche 911 — are all present and correct in GT7. It's a great way to experience the film's cars for yourself.

4. 🔧 Gran Turismo 7 Engine Swap List – The Ultimate Tuning Feature

One of the most exciting features added to Gran Turismo 7 post-launch is the Engine Swap system. This allows you to take an engine from one car and install it in another, completely transforming its character. Want to put a Porsche 911 GT3 engine in a Volkswagen Beetle? Or a racing V8 in a Mazda MX-5? It's possible.

The Gran Turismo 7 Engine Swap List is carefully curated, with each combination balanced to ensure it's both fun and feasible. Engines are found as rewards in roulette tickets, purchased from the Tuning Shop, or earned through completing certain events. The system adds a whole new layer of depth to the tuning aspect of the game.

4.1 Top 5 Most Popular Engine Swaps

1. Porsche 911 GT3 (996) engine → Volkswagen Beetle (1200) — a hilarious and surprisingly capable combination
2. Chevrolet LS7 V8 → Mazda RX-7 Spirit R — transforms the rotary into a muscle car
3. Ferrari 458 V8 → Alfa Romeo 4C — the ultimate Italian sports car
4. Nissan GT-R R35 engine → Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 — a modern heart in a classic body
5. Honda K20 VTEC → Mazda MX-5 (ND) — high-revving fun in a lightweight roadster

For the full list of compatible engine swaps, including the latest additions from the 2025 updates, check out our dedicated Gran Turismo 7 Engine Swap List guide.

5. 💻 Gran Turismo 7 System Requirements – What You Need to Play

While Gran Turismo 7 is a PlayStation exclusive, many players are interested in the Gran Turismo 7 System Requirements for remote play on PC, or for those considering buying a PS5 specifically for the game. Here's a breakdown of what you need.

5.1 PlayStation 5 (Native)

• Console: PlayStation 5 (digital or disc edition)
• Storage: 110 GB available space (SSD required)
• Internet: Required for online features and updates
• Display: 1080p@60fps (base), 4K@60fps (performance), 4K@30fps (ray-tracing)
• Audio: Tempest 3D AudioTech supported

5.2 PlayStation 4 (Backward Compatible)

• Console: PS4 or PS4 Pro
• Storage: 110 GB available space
• Performance: 1080p@30fps (PS4), 1800p@30fps (PS4 Pro)
• Note: Loading times are significantly longer on PS4

5.3 Remote Play on PC

You can stream Gran Turismo 7 to your PC using PS Remote Play. For a smooth experience, you'll need:

• CPU: Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600
• RAM: 8 GB minimum
• Network: 15 Mbps download / 5 Mbps upload (wired Ethernet recommended)
• Controller: DualSense or DualShock 4

For a complete breakdown, including recommended PC specs for 4K streaming and latency optimisation tips, visit our Gran Turismo 7 System Requirements page.

6. 🧠 Gran Turismo 7 Tips – How to Master the Game

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there's always something new to learn in Gran Turismo 7. We've compiled the most effective tips from the UK player community to help you improve your lap times, earn credits faster, and get the most out of the game.

6.1 Beginner Tips

• Complete the licence tests first. They teach you the fundamentals of racing technique and reward you with cars and credits.
• Use the in-game tutorial videos. They're short but packed with useful information about racing lines, braking points, and cornering techniques.
• Don't ignore the Used Car Dealership. Some of the best cars for early-game events are available at bargain prices.
• Adjust your brake bias. Moving the bias slightly to the rear can help with turn-in, while a front bias improves stability under braking.

6.2 Advanced Techniques

• Master trail braking. This is the single most important technique for fast lap times. Brake in a straight line, then gradually release the brakes as you begin to turn.
• Learn to left-foot brake. This allows you to maintain throttle while braking, keeping the car balanced and reducing turbo lag.
• Use the radar. The mini-map radar shows the position of other cars, helping you avoid collisions and plan overtakes.
• Customise your setup. Adjusting suspension, anti-roll bars, and differential settings can dramatically improve handling for specific tracks.

6.3 Credit Farming Strategies

Earning credits in GT7 can be a grind, but there are efficient ways to build up your bank balance. The Tokyo Expressway 600PP event is a favourite among UK players — it pays out 550,000 credits for a clean race and takes about 20 minutes. The Sardegna Road Course 800PP event is another excellent option, offering 485,000 credits for a 15-minute race.

For a comprehensive collection of strategies, including the best cars for each event and tuning setups, see our Gran Turismo 7 Tips guide.

7. 🌐 Online Multiplayer & Community – Racing Together

Gran Turismo 7's online component, Sport Mode, is where the game truly shines. The focus is on clean, competitive racing with a sophisticated matchmaking system that pairs you with drivers of similar skill and sportsmanship levels. The Driver Rating (DR) and Sportsmanship Rating (SR) system ensures that aggressive driving is penalised and clean drivers are rewarded.

The Daily Races rotate every week, offering three different events with varying car classes and track layouts. The FIA Gran Turismo Championships provide a more structured competitive experience, with seasons running throughout the year. For UK players, there's a thriving community of leagues and events, many of which are organised through Discord and social media.

7.1 The Gran Turismo Hd Connection

Fans of the series who remember Gran Turismo Hd — the 2006 Prologue-style release on PS3 — will appreciate how far the online experience has come. GT7's Sport Mode is a fully-fledged competitive platform with live broadcasts, replays, and a dedicated esports scene.

8. ⚖️ How Does Gran Turismo 7 Compare to Other Racing Games?

The racing game landscape has changed dramatically since the last numbered GT game. Here's how GT7 stacks up against its main competitors.

8.1 vs. Forza Motorsport (2023)

Forza Motorsport on Xbox and PC is GT7's closest rival. Both games are sim-focused, with detailed physics and extensive car lists. Forza has the edge in car customisation (especially in terms of visual modifications), while GT7 excels in presentation, photorealistic graphics, and controller feedback. GT7's GT Auto and Scapes modes give it a unique personality that Forza can't quite match.

8.2 vs. Assetto Corsa Competizione

ACC is a hardcore simulation focused exclusively on GT3 racing. It's more realistic than GT7 in terms of physics and tyre modelling, but it lacks the breadth of content and accessibility. GT7 is the better choice for players who want a well-rounded experience with a mix of cars, tracks, and events.

8.3 vs. New Gta Update (GTA Online Racing)

While the New Gta Update often brings new vehicles and racing content to GTA Online, the driving physics are firmly in the arcade camp. GT7 is a completely different beast — it's about precision, consistency, and realism. Both have their place, but for serious driving enthusiasts, GT7 is the clear winner.

9. 🏁 Verdict – Is Gran Turismo 7 Worth It in 2025?

After hundreds of hours with Gran Turismo 7, we can confidently say that it's not just the best racing game on PlayStation 5 — it's one of the best racing games ever made. The combination of stunning visuals, deep physics, comprehensive car list, and regular content updates makes it a game that keeps giving.

That said, it's not without its flaws. The microtransaction system, while less aggressive than at launch, still feels unnecessary in a full-priced game. The roulette ticket system is frustratingly random, often giving you the lowest-value prize. And the single-player campaign, while extensive, can feel a bit grindy at times.

But these issues are minor compared to the overall achievement. Gran Turismo 7 is a labour of love, a game that celebrates cars and driving in a way that no other title does. It's a must-play for anyone who loves racing — or anyone who wants to understand why so many of us are obsessed with it.

10.1 Related Content You Might Enjoy

If you're interested in the broader Gran Turismo universe, the Gran Turismo Film Running Time is 135 minutes of pure petrolhead entertainment, and the Gran Turismo Games On Ps2 era provided some of the most beloved entries in the series. For those looking to watch the movie online, the Gran Turismo Filme Online streaming options are widely available now.

And if you're a fan of BMW, the Bmw Gt section of our site covers everything from the 3 Series GT to the brand's Gran Turismo heritage. Finally, the New Gta Update always brings interesting new vehicles to the world of GTA Online, though the driving experience is a world away from what GT7 offers.

This Gran Turismo 7 Review was last updated on 1 April 2025. All information is based on the latest game version and community knowledge. We strive to keep our content accurate and up-to-date.