Author: Alejandro Trigo Rosón

  • Le Mans Ultimate v1.2: New ELMS Pack 2 DLC, Ginetta LMP3 Evo and Paul Ricard in one of the most complete updates to date

    Le Mans Ultimate v1.2: New ELMS Pack 2 DLC, Ginetta LMP3 Evo and Paul Ricard in one of the most complete updates to date

    Le Mans Ultimate has just released its v1.2 Update alongside the ELMS Pack 2 DLC, a combination that introduces key content for endurance racing fans while marking another important step in the simulator’s maturity. The main highlights include the new Ginetta G61-LT-P3 Evo, the long-awaited Circuit Paul Ricard, a deep redesign of tyre physics, and an extensive list of improvements across online features, UI and overall game behaviour.

    Below is a clear summary of the most relevant additions.

    The Ginetta G61-LT-P3 Evo: Ginetta’s return to LMP3

    The standout addition of the DLC is the Ginetta G61-LT-P3 Evo, the new weapon of DKR Engineering for the 2025 European Le Mans Series. Under the LMP3 Gen 3 regulations, the car features:

    • Toyota V35A 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine (≈470 bhp)
    • Six-speed sequential gearbox
    • Refined aerodynamics
    • Improved cooling and revised rear geometry
    • A lighter chassis

    In real life, it will run as DKR’s no. 4 entry, driven by Wyatt Brichacek, Mikkel Gaarde Pedersen and Antti Rammo.

    On track in the simulator, the car stands out with livelier rear-end behaviour, stronger braking compared to the previous generation and highly competitive top-speed performance. In short, it is a more modern and more demanding LMP3.

    Circuit Paul Ricard: one of the most versatile venues in motorsport

    Also included in the DLC is Paul Ricard, a legendary facility with up to 247 possible configurations and unique runoff zones (blue and red) combining asphalt, tungsten and abrasive materials.

    The circuit has been a cornerstone of the ELMS since 2010 with its 4 Hours of Le Castellet, and its arrival in LMU brings:

    • The Mistral straight, with or without chicanes
    • Technical corners that punish mistakes
    • A perfect environment for endurance testing

    The in-game recreation preserves the visual identity and safety features that define the circuit.

    Key additions in the v1.2 update

    The v1.2 build arrives with an unusually large number of changes, even by LMU standards. These are the most important improvements, summarised:

    Gameplay and system improvements

    • New Texture Streaming technology: higher visual quality with lower memory usage
    • Driver Badges: indicators of behaviour and experience for online racing
    • Easy Anti-Cheat integration
    • Online Team Endurance Championships
    • Time Penalties now served during pit stops or at race end
    • More natural race endings, allowing players to return to the pitlane at their own pace

    Physics and on-track behaviour

    • New tyre model for LMP2, LMP3 and GT3
    • Implementation of rim thermals and improved track-temperature logic
    • More realistic wet-racing line
    • Improvements to grip, rubber blend behaviour and cold-tyre characteristics

    Online and race management

    • Stricter synchronisation before allowing cars to move
    • Improvements to driver swaps, penalties and practice/qualifying control
    • Online behaviour metrics in preparation for future safety-rating systems

    Graphics and sound

    • Cleaner visuals, lower VRAM use and optimisation when cars retire
    • More controlled spray, adjusted rain effects and improved windscreen cleaning
    • Important fixes to shaders, lighting and material behaviour
    • Many audio upgrades, especially in shifts, pops and rain

    UI, HUD and functionality

    • Integrated telemetry recording
    • New HUD customisation options
    • Fixes across MFD, pit menu and repair systems
    • New graphics options, more coherent navigation and updated menu behaviour

    Vehicle and circuit fixes

    Dozens of cars receive adjustments to:

    • Lights, RPM LEDs, materials, mirrors, cameras and displays
    • Sound behaviour, damage models, default setups and tyres

    Likewise, nearly every circuit receives corrections to track limits, AI or grip profiles, including Monza, Portimão, Spa, Silverstone and Imola.

    Conclusion: a solid DLC and an update that refines the simulator across the board

    The ELMS Pack 2 delivers relevant content aligned with the simulator’s competitive DNA, while the v1.2 update is arguably one of the most comprehensive updates LMU has released to date. It improves the visual, physical, online and management aspects of the game while introducing tools that support a more structured and serious multiplayer ecosystem.

    Paul Ricard brings an excellent venue for testing and long-distance racing, and the Ginetta LMP3 Evo raises the level of the category within the game.

    Le Mans Ultimate continues to progress, now with greater stability, more competitive options and a more polished technical foundation. It is an update worth recommending to both casual players and endurance teams alike.

  • iRacing 2026 Season 1: A complete guide to content, updates, and what to expect

    iRacing 2026 Season 1: A complete guide to content, updates, and what to expect

    A new season in iRacing always generates expectations, and the launch of the 2026 Season 1 arrives with enough substance to justify. This build introduces two fully new cars, a substantial expansion of track configurations, AI upgrades, refinements to the UI and Sim-UI, and a collection of improvements that continue shaping iRacing as one of the most mature and comprehensive online racing simulators.

    Each year, the service is structured around four seasons, and each one acts as a content milestone. Season 1 sets the tone for the year, and in this case, it does so with breadth and ambition. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the 2026 opening season: new vehicles, circuits, configuration updates, simulation improvements, and what all of this means for active iRacing drivers.


    Release date

    iRacing 2026 Season 1 was officially released on December 9, 2025, establishing one of the largest builds of the year and setting the foundation for the competitive calendar ahead.


    New cars in iRacing 2026 Season 1

    Two new vehicles headline this season’s content drop, each designed to expand the simulator’s range and appeal to different types of drivers.

    Porsche 911 Cup (992.2)

    The new-generation Porsche 911 Cup arrives as a complete addition to the car roster. The model is fully equipped for wet-weather racing, includes specific rule integrations for tracks like the Nürburgring Nordschleife, and supports ABS and traction control—bringing modern Cup-car behavior to the service. Drivers who owned the previous version will receive this one automatically.

    The introduction of modern driving aids has sparked debate among the community, reflecting the ongoing tension between authenticity and accessibility.

    FIA Cross Car

    The FIA Cross Car joins the platform as an off-road entry-level vehicle intended for dirt road disciplines. It becomes default content for all subscribers, offering an approachable way for newcomers and veterans alike to explore iRacing’s off-road ecosystem without requiring additional purchases.

    In addition, the Dallara IR18 receives a full hybrid-system update and a refreshed visual model, aligning it with current real-world specifications.


    New tracks and configurations

    Season 1 2026 brings several notable additions to the circuit roster, expanding both competitive and practice possibilities.

    Adelaide Street Circuit

    A historic Australian street circuit, known for its Formula 1 heritage and its demanding layout defined by close walls and shifting surface conditions.

    Miami International Autodrome

    The modern circuit surrounding Hard Rock Stadium arrives with multiple configurations, including several variations of the main layout. It blends fast straights with slower, technical sequences that challenge both consistency and precision.

    Lucas Oil Speedway – Dirt Road

    A dirt road configuration is now available for users who already own the dirt oval, adding a crossover-style mixed-surface layout to the track’s offerings.

    Rockingham Speedway Oval (rescanned)

    Rockingham has been fully rescanned with updated laser data, offering improved accuracy and visual detail.


    New configurations and track enhancements

    Beyond new circuits, this season incorporates:

    • Multiple new configurations for the Miami International Autodrome, including GP, Marina Loop and Extended Loops
    • Expanded AI Racing support, with AI drivers now capable of running the new Porsche 911 Cup 992.2 and additional layouts across Adelaide, Miami and Rockingham

    These additions increase replay value and bring more diversity to both official racing and private hosted events.


    Improved Artificial Intelligence

    AI Racing continues to evolve, with developers training computer-controlled drivers to handle the latest vehicles and track additions. This enhances offline practice opportunities, non-competitive sessions and mixed grids for drivers who rely on AI for testing or structured custom events.


    UI improvements and user experience updates

    Season 1 includes refinements to the user interface and Sim-UI aimed at improving clarity and customization:

    • Updated HUD and Sim-UI visual elements
    • Improved localization and language options
    • New widget customization tools, including lap timers, standings modules and weather indicators

    These changes support a more adaptable racing environment, allowing drivers to shape the information flow to their personal needs.


    Other minor improvements and adjustments

    Complementing the headline features, the build also introduces:

    • Updates to existing tracks and additional layout variations
    • Optimization passes on setups, including new “precision-crafted vehicle setups” for a broad selection of cars
    • Continued work on stability and vehicle physics fidelity

    What this season means for active iRacing drivers

    Season 1 2026 represents:

    • A broader variety of content across both asphalt and dirt road disciplines
    • Further refinement of the simulator through modernized vehicles and track updates
    • A more dynamic competitive calendar, blending legacy circuits with contemporary venues
    • Continued evolution in AI behavior, UI flexibility and layout diversity

    iRacing maintains its rhythm of seasonal development, providing its community with the tools to compete in GT, open-wheel, oval and off-road racing at a consistently high level.


    Conclusion: Season 1 2026 begins the year with promising expectations

    The opening season of 2026 arrives with confidence. The expansion in circuit content and the introduction of modernized vehicles signal an effort to grow the simulator meaningfully, while polish across the UI and AI systems demonstrates ongoing commitment to refinement.

    For active iRacing drivers, this update delivers new challenges, new machinery to master, more sophisticated AI opponents and a cleaner, more flexible interface. As a foundation for the year ahead, Season 1 2026 sets an optimistic tone for the evolution of the service.

  • Assetto Corsa EVO 0.4: A full breakdown of the update that marks a turning point

    Assetto Corsa EVO 0.4: A full breakdown of the update that marks a turning point

    More cars, more tracks, revised physics and a multiplayer system that finally shows real promise—though… there’s a lot to talk about

    The third major update of the Assetto Corsa EVO Early Access marks a decisive step toward regaining the community’s trust. After a rough launch almost a year ago, KUNOS seems to have finally found the right rhythm, and AC EVO 0.4 arrives packed with content, technical improvements and clear signs of where the project is heading.

    This update includes: the Daily Racing Portal, ten new cars, five new circuits, and deep revisions to physics, audio, graphics and gameplay systems. With these changes, KUNOS aims to show that AC EVO is finally gaining stable footing.

    In this article, we go through all the official additions and share our on-track impressions—both the good and the not-so-good.


    Daily Racing Portal: Multiplayer finally starts taking shape

    The highlight of 0.4 is the launch of acevo.gg, the new Daily Racing Portal, designed to build a solid competitive ecosystem alongside SimGrid. Although the first day was a bit chaotic (failed registrations, empty lobbies despite enough players, server access issues, etc.), stability is gradually arriving—something both KUNOS and players desperately needed.

    Key features:

    • You can view and register for daily races without launching the game.
    • When the event starts, it automatically connects you to the correct server.
    • Uses GridRating to create automatic skill-based splits.

    This is only the first step, and KUNOS confirms upcoming additions:

    • League tools
    • Advanced statistics
    • Deeper in-game integration

    Personal impression:

    After running several races, I can say that—even if the race selector sends you to a browser—joining online events is quite simple. But there’s a lot to improve.

    For example: we really need practice servers like Le Mans Ultimate or iRacing, so you can warm up before the race starts and receive a notification when the session is about to begin. As it stands, if you register for the 14:00 race and get distracted playing something else, you might just miss your slot without any warning.

    The event format is similar to iRacing—short practice, qualifying and race—with session lengths depending on the series.

    As for the available series… a bit disappointing but understandable. GT3 races are packed hours in advance, while less popular series barely get any drivers. Given the car roster they already have, I expected a little more variety.

    On track, the racing doesn’t feel bad. I didn’t experience much lag or erratic car movement from others. But the collision physics… by far the worst part of ACEvo. It feels like two billiard balls smashing together. Definitely needs major work.


    New cars: a huge and diverse update

    Version 0.4 brings 10 new vehicles, varied and appealing to many different types of drivers. Here’s a breakdown along with real driving impressions.


    Racing

    Ferrari F40 LM

    A monster from the early 90s with a Biturbo V8 pushed to 720 hp, 2.6 bar of boost and brutally raw behavior.

    Impression:
    The turbo lag is both glorious and terrifying. A true millionaire-killer. It demands respect and precision—expect to spend hours trying to tame it. And if you use an H-pattern shifter… you will feel in danger. You’re going to sweat.


    Ferrari SF-25

    The first modern Formula 1 car in AC EVO:

    • Hybrid system
    • ERS
    • DRS
    • Over 1000 hp
    • 0–200 km/h in under 5 seconds
    • More than 5G in fast corners

    Impression:
    A very pleasant surprise—it feels fantastic. Understanding how the hybrid power deployment works takes a few laps, and although the lap times prove it’s working, it’s hard to feel the recovery and deployment. The DRS, however, is extremely well replicated; the moment you activate it, the rear end becomes noticeably more reactive. A beast that requires hours and hours to learn. Bravo, Kunos.


    Road cars

    Porsche Cayman 718 GT4 RS (Weissach version included)

    500 hp, naturally aspirated, mid-engine, revs past 8000 rpm.

    Impression:
    For me, the star of the update. Its handling is a joy, and its sound is among the best in the game right now. Enjoyable from minute one. It’s like a sensibly proportioned 911 with near-perfect weight distribution. I highly recommend pushing it on every track.


    BMW M3 (E46) CSL

    Ultra-light, carbon roof, 360 hp, sequential transmission.

    Impression:
    This one falls a bit short: the high-rpm sound is pretty ugly and needs improvement. Also disappointing that it only comes with a sequential gearbox—manual fans would have loved an H-shifter version for immersion.


    BMW M8 Competition Coupé (F92)

    A huge GT car with a twin-turbo V8 and AWD that can switch to RWD.

    Impression:
    The selectable driving modes are one of ACEvo’s standout features. Switching to RWD-only is a great touch. Driving it feels like steering a catamaran through narrow rivers—you might need some extra paddles.


    Ferrari Daytona SP3

    A 840 hp naturally aspirated V12 revving above 9000 rpm. A tribute to Ferrari’s golden era.

    Impression:
    The interior sound is fantastic. Like any hypercar, you’ll need several laps before you start putting together a proper lap. It’s the kind of challenge that hooks you.


    Mini John Cooper S (Mk VI) + B16 Variant

    • Stock version with the 1275 A-series engine
    • B16 swap with Honda VTEC producing 160+ hp

    Impression:
    If it weren’t for the suspension, it’d be even harsher—it bounces off every curb. But it teaches you the benefits of neutral steering, the art of rotating the car with the steering nearly straight. It’s a very fun car for roleplay driving.


    Peugeot 205 T16

    A legendary Group B machine.

    Impression:
    I loved it—the AWD feels surprisingly modern and precise, though I’m not sure if it was like this back in the day. This is the kind of car I expected to see in the competitive series.


    Renault 5 GT Turbo

    Light, agile and with that iconic turbo punch.

    Impression:
    After many laps across several tracks, the turbo has never kicked in mid-corner while braking… badly simulated. Still, it’s a gem for roleplay, letting you feel on the edge—but in slow motion.


    Toyota Supra Turbo RZ (Mk IV) + Drift Variant

    The legendary 2JZ, available in its stock form and in a drift-spec version with:

    • More torque
    • Much wider steering angles
    • Dedicated drift setup

    Impression:
    The drift variant is one of the best implementations of drifting they’ve done—even if we already had it in the original Assetto Corsa. Far more controllable compared to the impossible-to-catch slides of the other cars.


    New tracks: Nordschleife, Nürburgring GP, Monza and more

    This update includes the biggest track expansion so far:

    • Monza
    • Road Atlanta
    • Nürburgring GP
    • Nordschleife with multiple layouts, including Touristenfahrten
    • Oulton Park (two variants)

    All F1 circuits have been updated with new DRS zones to support the SF-25.

    Impressions:

    • The Touristenfahrten Nordschleife is a gift for people who enjoy immersion and roleplay. Starting from the parking lot in a Mercedes 190E with manual gears makes you feel like old times were better.
    • Nürburgring’s curbs are brutal—literal mountains. Cars like the Mini become instant catapults.
    • Monza and Road Atlanta feel lacking in variants. I really missed Road Atlanta Short and a no-chicanes version of Monza. It wouldn’t have cost them much to include them.

    Physics evolution: a step forward… but still room for improvement

    Version 0.4 introduces deep changes:

    • New tyre damping system
    • Better traction under acceleration and braking
    • Revised grip model, more progressive
    • More detailed tyre temperature and wear behavior
    • Unified ERS, KERS and hybrid systems
    • Improvements to drivetrain, G-forces and rolling resistance
    • Electronic cockpit adjustments: brake bias, turbo, differential, damping

    Personal impression:

    • It definitely feels like another solid step forward. 0.3 had clear inconsistencies, and things now feel more unified and consistent.
    • However, I still feel the transition between grip and losing the car is too abrupt. There’s little elasticity at the limit, and sometimes it feels digital: either it grips or it snaps.

    Audio improvements: more detail and more personality

    Updated elements:

    • Redesigned engine, transmission and turbo sounds
    • More detailed VTEC transitions
    • New audible drivetrain wobble model
    • More immersive backfires, hiss, scrapings and rain
    • New samples for several vehicles

    Impression:

    The GT4 RS and SF-25 shine. The M3 CSL, however, desperately needs an audio overhaul.


    Graphics and performance: clearer and lighter on VRAM

    Key improvements:

    • Updated paint materials
    • Cleaner post-processing
    • Reduced VRAM usage
    • Sharper cockpit visuals
    • Visual updates for several car models

    Impression:

    You can feel a more stable framerate, especially online and in large grids.


    UI and new features

    • More informative HUD
    • Cleaner server list
    • Redesigned leaderboard
    • New track maps
    • New multiplayer chat
    • Expanded MFD
    • Odometers for owned vehicles
    • Improved speed, gear and tyre widgets

    Conclusion: Assetto Corsa EVO finally feels closer to what Early Access should have been from the start

    Assetto Corsa EVO 0.4 is not just another update—
    it’s a clear signal that KUNOS is correcting its course and listening to the community again.

    The best parts of this update:

    • The Daily Racing Portal: essential to keep players engaged.
    • The car selection: varied, iconic and very well executed.
    • Nordschleife TF: a masterpiece for immersive driving.
    • Physics improvements: a meaningful step forward (with caveats).
    • Audio and graphics upgrades: more immersion and detail.

    What still needs work:

    • Sound quality for several cars.
    • Lack of track variants.
    • Abrupt grip-to-loss transition in physics.

    Even so, version 0.4 proves that AC EVO is alive, evolving, and—if KUNOS keeps this rhythm—might eventually become a simulator worthy of the Assetto Corsa legacy.