The latest update for Gran Turismo 7 is absolutely hilarious.

      Adam Ismail

      Subscribe to The Drive’s daily newsletter

      Stay updated with the latest car news, reviews, and features.

      Despite Gran Turismo’s long-standing claims of realism, it has always had a playful side. From the “Kids’ Prize” in GT2 for those struggling with license tests to GT5’s quirky choice of the ragtime classic “The Entertainer” in GT Auto, the series has managed to keep a light-hearted spirit throughout, provided you know where to look. This theme is present even today in Gran Turismo 7, including this week’s addition of the 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid and the 2012 Suzuki Carry kei truck to its lineup.

      At first glance, there’s nothing particularly humorous about these two vehicles. True, one is a kei truck, a delightfully unique vehicle, while the other is a common crossover, known for its blandness in comparison to the GT7 collection. However, their true potential only becomes apparent when you take them into the customization shop.

      In GT7, the Suzuki Carry can transform into various styles. While there are standard exterior modifications like sleeker bumpers and a roof cowl, the game also allows for a box bed and, surprisingly, a ramen stall. Admittedly, I’m uncertain about its practicality—it seems too small for a server—but it's an interesting feature regardless. I anticipate seeing these driving around the Tokyo Expressway in multiplayer lobbies soon.

      The many variations of the Suzuki Carry in Gran Turismo 7. Sony Interactive Entertainment

      If that wasn’t whimsical enough, players can widely modify many cars in GT7, including this Suzuki. When doing so, it provides different exterior options you wouldn’t typically see. Instead of cargo and food truck accessories, there are two flatbed choices, one of which includes a half-cage and a rather aggressive rear diffuser. Pair it with a sporty side skirt (and a side-exit exhaust if you opt for the semi-racing muffler), and you’ve got a fierce-looking little race truck. You can even give it an intimidating face.

      As for the Honda CR-V, you can attach what resembles a hill-climb body kit, complete with massive front and rear wings, reminiscent of the extreme aerodynamic modifications made by HRC on a newer CR-V in 2023, which utilized an IndyCar powertrain with a 2.2-liter twin-turbo V6 mounted behind the driver and passenger.

      Sony Interactive Entertainment

      Unfortunately, no matter how aggressive you make your CR-V appear in GT7, it remains limited to its stock output of 181 horsepower. For some reason, Polyphony Digital doesn’t allow substantial powertrain modifications for cars equipped with CVTs from the start. It is perplexing, leaving this CR-V looking formidable but lacking in performance.

      The Suzuki Carry begins with a mere 47 hp from its small 600cc three-cylinder engine. However, it can be upgraded to over 150 hp with all performance enhancements applied. That’s quite adequate for a rear-wheel-drive vehicle weighing around 1,400 pounds, but an engine swap would still be welcome. A 211-hp motorcycle engine like the one in the Honda Project 2&4 would be an excellent starting point.

      Sony Interactive Entertainment

      Today’s GT7 Update 1.59 also introduces the C5 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and the Ferrari 812 Superfast. While I’m not particularly fond of Ferraris from the last decade, I am keen on the Z06. Before trying either, though, I want to see how my Escudo Pikes Peak-themed time-attack kei truck performs at Tsukuba.

      Have a tip? Reach out to us at [email protected].