A Gran Turismo game series stalwart, High Speed Ring is one of the more simplistic track layouts within Gran Turismo 7.
Yet, that’s not to say it’s easy. With a significant portion of the lap full-throttle, the bits in-between are more important than ever and we expect lap times to be extremely close in the latest Lap Time Challenge within Sport Mode.
This time around the vehicle of choice is a Vision Gran Turismo Mazda LM55, a car so secretive it doesn’t disclose power outputs or displacements.
However, there’s also a Gr.1 relative that outputs 641bhp through a four-wheel-drive system, so expect this VGT derivative to be in that ballpark. All we know for certain is it likes to rev.
Gran Turismo 7’s Lap Time Challenges explained
GT7‘s Lap Time Challenge is a time trial mode where you compete against other players to set the fastest time on the leaderboard. However, there’s a caveat: setting a lap within three per cent of the fastest time nets players 2,000,000 Credits.
If you aren’t quite quick enough, then lapping within five per cent gains you 1,000,000 Credits, while a time inside 10 per cent of the fastest results in a 250,000 Credit payout.
Gran Turismo 7 Lap Time Challenge car choice and video guide
There are two corners key to a strong lap time around the High Speed Ring. Turn 2 and the final corner.
Following the flat-out bank of the opening curve, there’s then a tighter corner with a steep perimeter edge. Use this to your advantage. Don’t take the traditional racing line, instead run close to the wall and carry speed as the Mazda’s downforce sucks you into the banking.
Use a similar technique for the final corner. Have a small confidence-inspiring lift on the way in if you like, but again use the outside edge for the initial part of the corner, and by around the mid-point edge the car down towards the middle – but again, not near a traditional apex.
The middle sector is all about being neat and tidy, but the second and final corners need confidence and high speed. Hence the name of the track, we suppose.
Worn of warning, however – tap those outer walls and you’re getting at least a 1.5-second penalty, up to three seconds for ‘wall running’. Don’t even think about it…
Recommended car: Mazda LM55 VGT (Brand Central 1,000,000 Credits or free rental)
Lap Time Challenge
Race Information
Track: High Speed Ring
Entry Period: 3rd-17th August
Regulations
Useable Tyres: Racing: Medium
Wide body: Prohibited
Nitrous: Unrestricted
Regulations
Mazda LM55 VGT
Car Restrictions
Bop/Tuning Forbidden: High-speed
Car used: Garage Car, Event-Specified Car
Car Settings: Specified
Race Settings
Track Limit: Normal
Penalty Settings
Shortcut Penalty: Light
Don’t forget, while you’re within the Sport Mode menu, why not take part in some races too? Here’s a full run-down of those, too.