Bathurst Returns for Australia Month in Forza Motorsport

Car passion is deeply rooted in Australia. Celebrate its racing heritage over the next four weeks with Australia Month in Forza Motorsport.

Over in Career, the Australia Tour is where you will experience the storied legacy of Australian motoring culture: from the iconic Mount Panorama Circuit, where the legendary Bathurst 1000 endurance race unfolds amidst breathtaking scenery, to the Australian-made sport utes that seamlessly blend speed and utility.

Compete in high-performance V8-powered supercars in the Forza AUS Series in Featured Multiplayer, featuring Bathurst exclusively for the duration of Australia Month. Rolling Starts expand to additional Spec Series, while the Nordschleife and Nürburgring – Full Circuit have been added to select Open Series events.

Update 15 also introduces the ability to upgrade cars in Featured Multiplayer Open Events, faster transitions in Spectate and Replay, changes to Safety Ratings, and Ray-Traced Global Illumination (RTGI) for players on high-end PCs.

Game Improvements and Release Notes

Forza Motorsport Update 15 rolls out for download starting Monday, December 9 on Xbox Series X|S and PC via the Microsoft Store and Steam. Spotlight cars and new in-game events will begin on Wednesday, December 11 starting at 4:00 PM PT (12:00 AM UTC on Thursday, December 12).

Below is a snapshot of the fixes and improvements included with Update 15. Head on over to Forza Support to view the full release notes:

• Transitional black loading screens when switching camera types and cars on focus in both Spectate and Replay have been replaced by quick fades wherever possible, closer to the blink of an eye. Loading screens will only appear when changing streaming zones, such as jumping from one end of a long track to another. For PC players, this experience may vary based on system specs.

• We have adjusted the impact of recent races on your Safety Rating to reduce severe rating fluctuations and to more accurately reflect your overall race history.

• We have also increased the number of races used to calculate your Safety Rating. Previously, we increased the number of races from 10 to 20 and saw positive results. In this update, this number is further increasing from 20 to 50.

• Updated Forza GT Division cars in Showroom to reflect their Divisions in Featured Multiplayer (Forza GT2, Forza GT3, Forza GT4, Forza AUS, and Forza T/A).

• Fixed an issue where AI drivers were unaffected by a wet track during events with variable weather conditions.

• Updated Drivatar AI to reduce erratic/unrealistic braking behaviors around players.

Update 15 introduces a new model for Forza Race Regulations (FRR). This version brings a slight reduction to false positive penalty assignments, takes tire wear into account when computing time gained for off-track penalties, and fixes an issue where the player could be disqualified by going off track prior to crossing the Start/Finish line.

Today’s update also includes enhanced car audio for the following vehicles:

• 1991 BMW M3
• 1994 Ferrari F355 Berlinetta
• 2013 Ferrari La Ferrari
• 2015 Ferrari F12 TDF
• 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast
• 2015 McLaren P1 GTR

For additional information on how we’re updating the car sounds of Forza Motorsport, check out this blog, adapted from a presentation and AMA (“ask me anything”) hosted in the Forza Official Discord with the Turn 10 audio team.

Ray-Traced Global Illumination (RTGI) on PC

A new graphics option for our PC players has been added to Forza Motorsport's ray tracing settings to enable Ray Traced Global Illumination in the game, or RTGI for short. Players with high-end PCs can enable this new option to improve overall visual quality.

RTGI uses ray tracing hardware to compute more accurate indirect lighting and occlusion across the track and car in real time. This results in enhanced visual fidelity and realism in the game.

RTGI OFF

RTGI ON

RTGI OFF

RTGI ON

RTGI OFF

RTGI ON

RTGI is a new setting that must be enabled and is not on by default. Turn on RTGI and scale its rendering quality in the Forza Motorsport Graphics menu using the following toggles:

• Set Raytracing Quality to "Full Reflections + RTGI"
• Set RTGI Quality to "High"

When enabled, RTGI will apply to all gameplay and cinematics, as well as your Homespace and Photo Mode. If you require assistance with using RTGI on your PC, please see this Support article.

Car Upgrades in Featured Multiplayer

Custom Upgrade and Quick Upgrade functionality are now accessible from within Featured Multiplayer events for Series that allow it, including all Open Class Series, Cycled Class Series, and the Multi-Class Series.

This makes it easier than ever to tweak your current build without needing to leave the event or experiment with a new setup before the race starts. Additionally, this improves visibility for any PI Limits that may be in place for the current event.

Race on Mount Panorama Circuit

Bathurst is renowned for its competitive racing scene in the land down under. The 3.8-mile (6.2km) circuit sees drivers battle it out across Mount Panorama in New South Wales, Australia. Made up entirely of public roads, Bathurst is essentially a street circuit with a 570-foot (174-meter) elevation change, off-camber corners, and narrow racing surface.

With spectacular views ahead of each technical twist and turn, Bathurst has hosted V8 Supercars for over 80 years – with the exhilarating Conrod Straight allowing them to reach speeds of almost 200mph! As one of the most demanding yet rewarding racetracks in the entire world, the Mount Panorama Circuit is both feared and respected, especially by the drivers who have raced there.

Master this world-famous track while behind the wheel of beloved Aussie cars in the Australian Tour, Forza AUS Series, and Featured Rivals.

Discover Aussie Classics in the Australian Tour

Australian racing culture embodies a passion for ingenuity, speed, and adventure. Race in the Australian Tour with V8 Supercars, Australian Saloons, Aussie Classics and Sport Utes.

V8 Supercars

Choose between the 2017 Ford #17 Shell V-Power Racing Team Falcon FG X and 2017 Holden #22 Walkinshaw Performance VF Commodore and compete with V8s from around the world.

Australian Saloons

The 1991 Holden HSV Commodore Group A SV showcased the early 1990s era of low-cost amateur sedan racing, dominated by large Australian saloons. Pick your favorite Holden and race it against 1990s Touring cars of the same class.

Aussie Classics

Leaving their mark in pop culture, famous Aussie cars like the 1973 Ford XB Falcon GT have made their name on the big screen in blockbuster movies. Demonstrate the raw power of Australian muscle in the penultimate series of the Australian Tour.

Super Utes

Race Australian Utes and discover one of the most unique car hybrids in the world. Built on utility and unique looks before being adopted into motorsports, race the 2014 HSV Limited Edition GEN-F GTS Maloo or 2014 Ford FPV Limited Edition Pursuit Ute against their 2010s competitors.

Australian Tour Reward

Complete all four series in the Australian Tour in Career before January 22, 2025, or 10 races in the Forza AUS Series in Featured Multiplayer during Australia Month, to earn the 2013 Holden #10 Xbox Racing Team Commodore VF.

The Xbox One Racing Team was formed as a wildcard, one-off entry to celebrate the Bathurst track in Forza Motorsport 5. Andy Priaulx and Mattias Ekström drove the #10 to an astounding ninth place in the 2013 Bathurst 1000 race. The fact that the car – and its drivers – surprised everyone with their performance added to the spectacle of what is one of the world’s most difficult endurance races.

Cherish Your Aussie Favs in the Open Tour

Once you have mastered racing the Mount Panorama Circuit, Bathurst in Forza Motorsport, check out the Open Class Tour to continue the journey of your favorite Australian cars. Available under the Featured tab in Career mode.

Open Class Tour is where you can experiment with different upgrades and showcase your favorite tuned cars. Each update to Forza Motorsport refreshes the Open Class Tour with new events and a different reward car. Cars you’ve already upgraded in a different Builders Cup series can be further levelled up in the Open Class Tour.

The Open Class Tour features six series, each with three races, that range from D Class to R Class. Upgrade your favorite Australian saloons – or any other cars of your choosing – and use them to complete all six series in the Open Class Tour before January 8, 2025, and you will receive the 2011 Holden HSV GTS.

You can also unlock the 2011 Holden HSV GTS by completing 10 races in any Open Series in Featured Multiplayer. With a 6.2-liter V8 capable of 436 horsepower and a remarkable engine note, this Holden has the muscle for straight-line speed. It also features a dramatic front end complete with a unique vase-shaped grille.

Spotlight Cars and VIP Discounts

Spotlight cars are featured in the Showroom every week. These cars correspond to the available in-game events and can be acquired with a temporary 30% discount using in-game credits.

Australia Month will showcase six Spotlight cars in the Showroom, with one or more cars per week. These Spotlight cars can be used in the Australian Tour and Spotlight Rivals, as well as to complete Challenge Hub objectives.

The 2016 Formula Drift #530 HSV Maloo GEN-F, 2014 Ford FPV Limited Edition Pursuit Ute, and 1985 HDT VK Commodore Group A are also being added to the Showroom for Australia Month.

Forza Motorsport VIP Members also benefit from a 15% four-week discount in the Showroom on the 2017 Nissan Altima Racecar. In addition, VIPs receive an exclusive 15% discount on a car every week in the Showroom.

Here’s a look at the cars that will be going on sale for VIP Members over the next few weeks:

Exclusive VIP discounts and VIP Rivals events require VIP Membership, available in the Premium Edition or Premium Add-Ons Bundle, sold separately.

Australian V8-Themed Series in Featured Multiplayer

Several legendary rivalries have formed behind the wheels of high-performance V8-powered supercars from the land down under. Experience the Forza AUS Series featuring Bathurst exclusively for the duration of Australia Month.

Update 15 also introduces the Ferrari FXX Series. Blending Formula 1 technology with unparalleled exclusivity, these track-only supercars allow drivers to get behind the wheel of some of the most advanced and powerful Ferraris on the planet.

Later in Australia Month, we will also have a Track Toys Series. Designed for enthusiasts seeking the ultimate track day experience, these cars feature lightweight materials and stripped-down interiors and as a result feature exceptional acceleration and handling.

Other Featured Series over the next four weeks include the returning VW Golf GTI Spec Series, Formula Mazda Spec Series, and Mustang Shelby GT500 Spec Series.

Community Choice is back for Australia Month. We asked, you voted, and the events you can look forward to are the Early LMP Series, Road to Race Series (featuring new car combinations), Track Toys Series and Forza P1 Series.

Evergreen Series like the Endurance Series, Forza Touring Car Series, Forza GT2|3 Series, Multi-Class Series, and the daily Cycled Class Series all continue throughout Update 15. For the Endurance Series, we have swapped out Vintage Le Man Prototypes and Vintage Le Mans Sportscars events for Forza AUS events.

The Nordschleife and Nürburgring – Full Circuit have been added to the following Open Class Series in Featured Multiplayer:

• Multi-Class Series – Nordschleife
• A Class Series – Nordschleife
• S Class Series – Nordschleife
• R Class Series – Nürburgring Full Circuit
• Cycled Class Series (P Class, X Class) – Nürburgring Full Circuit

Rolling Starts have been adding to the following series in Featured Multiplayer: Forza GT2 Series, Forza GT3 Series, Early LMP Series, Forza P1 Series, Forza Proto-H Series, Formula Mazda Spec Series, and Endurance Series (excluding Forza AUS events).

Finally, your enthusiasm and dedication to the NASCAR Series in Featured Multiplayer means it will remain available in Forza Motorsport through the new year. In our next updates, you will be able to join the NASCAR Series under the Spec tab in Featured Multiplayer.

Here’s a look at the Featured Multiplayer calendar of upcoming events for Australia Month:

Go Fast and Set Records in Australian Rivals

Climbing 174 meters from the Pit Straight to Skyline, Mount Panorama’s Bathurst Circuit offers drivers an exhilarating ascent to the top, followed shortly by a nerve-racking descent back to the finish line. Experience it while behind the wheel of the 2019 Brabham BT62 in this Featured Rivals.

The Logitech McLaren G Challenge Qualifier #2 is here! Race for $100,000+ in cash and prizes and the chance to win a VIP race experience with McLaren. Sign up on Discord to confirm eligibility and qualify for prizes. This month’s event features the 1988 McLaren #12 Honda McLaren MP4/4 on the Silverstone – Grand Prix Circuit. The top 10 drivers per region qualify for grid races on March 1-2.

VIP Members, this one is for you! Get behind the wheel of the 2019 SUBARU STI S209 Forza Edition for a stroll to the top of Mount Panorama Circuit, Bathurst in the WRX Walkabout VIP Rivals.

VIP Members, this one is for you! Get behind the wheel of the 2019 SUBARU STI S209 Forza Edition for a stroll to the top of Mount Panorama Circuit, Bathurst in the WRX Walkabout VIP Rivals.

Celebrate the holiday season in style! Take the 2016 Formula Drift #530 HSV Maloo GEN-F to Grand Oak – Club Circuit and rack up the highest drift score on the leaderboard. Beat at least 10 Rivals to unlock the 2016 Formula Drift #530 HSV Maloo GEN-F for free! Pick your favorite C Class Drift car or build your very own and bring it to dominate the drift leaderboard in Open Class Drift.

Check out the full schedule of Rivals events available for your participation during Australia Month below. We will see you on the leaderboards!

Get Your Winter Rewards in the Challenge Hub

Australia Month introduces new opportunities to score rewards in the Challenge Hub. Prove your skills on Bathurst and behind the wheel of Australian cars in refreshed Featured Challenges and Weekly Challenges.

Challenge Hub objectives are spread across Career, Featured Multiplayer and Rivals. By playing these game modes, you can earn credit rewards, cars and race suits. Stay warm while racing your favorite cars in the Frostbite Suit and Rebellious Suit.

Unlock the winter-themed Frostbite Suit by completing a lap in the 2019 Elemental Rp1 on Nürburgring Nordschleife in the Rain. This white suit and helmet have black and red accents and are covered throughout with icicles in teal tones.

Meanwhile, the yellow Rebellious Suit – earned by completing 10 clean laps at Bathurst in an Australian car – features black and green accents in lightning patterns.

What’s more, the reward cars for Australia Month can be obtained by completing the Featured Tour in Career or by playing a specified number of races in Featured Multiplayer – it’s your choice!

Here’s a breakdown of the Challenge Hub objectives and rewards available for Australia Month:

Featured Challenges

Weekly Challenges

Week 1: Dec. 11 4:00 PM PT – Dec. 18 4:00 PM PT | Dec. 12 12:00 AM UTC – Dec. 19 12:00 AM UTC

Week 2: Dec. 18 4:00 PM PT – Dec. 25 4:00 PM PT | Dec. 19 12:00 AM UTC – Dec. 26 12:00 AM UTC

Week 3: Dec. 25 4:00 PM PT – Jan. 1 4:00 PM PT | Dec. 26 12:00 AM UTC – Jan. 2 12:00 AM UTC

Week 4: Jan. 1 4:00 PM PT – Jan. 8 4:00 PM PT | Jan. 2 12:00 AM UTC – Jan. 9 12:00 AM UTC

Race Down Under in Bathurst

That’s Australia Month in Forza Motorsport. We hope you enjoy racing Australian cars around Mount Panorama Circuit in the Australian Tour and Forza AUS Series in Featured Multiplayer.

Please continue sharing your ideas for new cars, tracks and features with us over on the Suggestions Hub, and they might be considered for inclusion in future updates.

If you encounter any issues while playing Forza Motorsport or enjoying Update 15 features, they can be reported on the Troubleshooting Hub. Please be sure to include any reproduction steps to help our team investigate, and if another player has reported a similar problem, you can upvote their topic to help bring additional visibility to it.

Update 15 is our last content update for 2024, however we have more coming to Forza Motorsport in 2025. Update 16 will be available in January as a celebration of all things BMW with new cars and events.

Stay tuned for more details about Update 16 in next month’s blog! In the meantime, sign up for the Forza Newsletter to be in the loop with all things Forza. You can also join our official Forza Discord server to chat with other Forza Motorsport players, participate in community events and future “In the Garage” AMAs, and be informed of the latest in-game updates.

Until the next one, we hope you all enjoy the holidays and get some well-earned rest, and we look forward to racing with you on the track!