iRacing 2020 Season 1 Update Now Available: The Dawn of AI, New V8 Supercars, and More

The new year begins early for iRacing subscribers, as the IMS team has released the 2020 Season 1 Build to all subscribers. Headlining the inaugural season of 2020 are two new V8 Supercar additions: the Holden ZB Commodore and Ford Mustang GT.

Announced in September, the cars make their way to the game to join the existing Holden Commodore VF and Ford Falcon FG. With tracks like Bathurst, Phillip Island, and Oran Park in iRacing’s roster, it won’t take long to find their natural habitat.

As the trailer wastes no time showing, both cars sound as imposing as they look. Where the Mustang looks reserved, the Commodore looks a little feisty coming out of Turn 5. Don’t expect either machine to not bite back if mishandled — we reckon they don’t play nicely with unsuspecting drivers.

5.0-liter V8 engines are the hearts of both cars, making upwards of 635hp. They’ll sprint to 60mph in 3.2 seconds and go on to their top speed of 185mph. While that may sound modest in comparison to other cars featured, it’s more than enough for their home circuits.

Best of all, those that purchased the outgoing Holden and Ford models in the last two years will receive both at no extra cost.

If that weren’t enough, Lernerville Speedway makes its iRacing debut as well after being voted in by the community. Located in Server, Pennsylvania, the 0.4-mile dirt oval circuit hosts the World of Outlaws Sprintcar and Late Model series events. The circuit is also home to the Don Martin Memorial Silver Cup and Firecracker 100, both of which are the highest paying race for the Sprintcar and Late Model series races, respectively.

In addition, Lime Rock Park gets an update for new year (which you can see more of here) and Formula 3 takes advantage of the sim racer’s new damage model. The V7 tire model makes its way to even more cars, including the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (991).

Finally, there’s the soft launch of AI. The feature was first discussed early last year, with our first look coming a few months later. It’s worth mentioning that the soft launch is limited to the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, and a seven road course tracks.

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