Gran Turismo 7 Spec II Update: Cars, Track, Sophy AI & More!

Last Updated: October 25, 2025


Gran Turismo 7 Spec II Update Cover Art

Polyphony Digital delivered one of the most significant post-launch updates for Gran Turismo 7, fundamentally evolving the game with the release of the massive Spec II update (1.40) on November 2, 2023. More than a simple content drop, Spec II supercharged the acclaimed driving simulator with a host of new cars, a new track, and major feature overhauls, including 4-player split-screen and the full integration of the revolutionary Sophy AI.

The landmark update coincided with another incredible milestone: the Gran Turismo franchise officially surpassed 90 million units sold worldwide, cementing its legacy as one of the most successful and enduring series in gaming history.

Inside Spec II: A Breakdown of the Game-Changing Content

The Spec II update was a comprehensive injection of content and features that addressed fan requests and expanded the core experience. Continuing Polyphony Digital's robust post-launch support, the update provided a wealth of new additions completely free of charge.

Seven New Cars:

A diverse lineup of vehicles was added, spanning American muscle, JDM legends, and European engineering marvels:

  • Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack 392 ‘68
  • Dodge Challenger SRT Demon ‘18
  • Lexus LFA ‘10
  • Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II ‘91
  • NISMO 400R ‘95
  • Porsche 911 GT3 RS (992) ‘22
  • Tesla Model S Signature Performance ‘12

New Track - Lake Louise:

Players were given a brand-new original snow circuit, Lake Louise, nestled in the Canadian Rockies. This challenging track came with three distinct layouts: a Long Track, a Short Track, and a Tri-Oval.

Major Feature Enhancements:

  • 4-Player Split-Screen: A highly requested feature, local split-screen multiplayer was expanded to support up to four players on the PlayStation 5.
  • Sophy AI Integration: The groundbreaking superhuman racing AI, Gran Turismo Sophy, was fully integrated into the "Quick Race" mode (formerly Arcade Race) on PS5, allowing players to challenge a more dynamic and human-like AI opponent.
  • New Menu Books & Licenses: The single-player experience was broadened with three new Extra Menu Books in the GT Café and 50 new Master License challenges to test even the most skilled drivers.
  • New Opening Cinematic: The game received a fresh, updated opening movie showcasing the new content and the beauty of car culture.

A Legacy of Evolution: The Significance of 'Spec' Updates

The 'Spec' naming convention carries significant weight within the Gran Turismo community. Veteran players recall the 'Spec II' update for Gran Turismo Sport, a transformative patch that added a more traditional single-player campaign, the 'GT League,' long after its initial release. It fundamentally reshaped the game's value and was celebrated for addressing fan feedback.

History repeated itself with Gran Turismo 7's Spec II update. It was more than just a content pack; it introduced foundational changes like expanded local multiplayer and the next evolution of AI opponents. This approach reaffirms Polyphony Digital's commitment to treating the game as a live service platform that evolves over time. Spec II demonstrated that the studio is not just adding to Gran Turismo 7, but actively refining and expanding its core vision based on community feedback and technological advancements.

Celebrating Over 90 Million Drivers

Paired with the Spec II news was the monumental announcement that the Gran Turismo franchise had surpassed 90 million copies sold since its debut on the original PlayStation in 1997. This staggering figure places Gran Turismo in an elite tier of gaming franchises and solidifies its status as a cornerstone of the PlayStation brand. For over 25 years, Kazunori Yamauchi and the team at Polyphony Digital have pursued a singular vision: to create 'The Real Driving Simulator.' This milestone is a testament to that unwavering dedication. From its revolutionary graphics on the PS1 to its cutting-edge implementation of PS VR2 technology, the series has consistently pushed the boundaries of virtual motorsport.

The Evolving Platform of Gran Turismo 7

The Spec II update marked a pivotal moment in the lifecycle of Gran Turismo 7. Since its launch, the game has received a steady stream of free monthly updates, but Spec II set a new benchmark for what players could expect. It reinforced GT7's position as a premier racing title on the PlayStation 5 and a key showcase for the console's technical capabilities, from haptic feedback to stunning ray-traced visuals. By delivering such a substantial upgrade well over a year after launch, Polyphony Digital assured fans that the road ahead is filled with continued content, innovation, and a deep commitment to the art of driving.