LMU Update 1.3 Improves Performance as ELMS DLC Arrives
🚗 A Structural Update with Incremental Content
Le Mans Ultimate has received Update 1.3, alongside the final part of the ELMS Championship DLC.
While the DLC adds new content, the update itself introduces broader technical changes that appear aimed at improving performance and preparing the title for future console support.
The DLC is priced at approximately £9 / €10 / $12 and includes:
The LMP3 Duqueine D09
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
However, the more significant changes come from the underlying update.
⚙️ Middleware Changes and Load Time Improvements
One of the key technical updates is a shift in middleware—from a Chromium-based system to Coherent.
While not user-facing, this change has a clear impact on performance, particularly loading times.
📊 Observed Load Time Changes
In testing (full grid, mixed classes):
Before update: ~1 minute 33 seconds
After update: ~31 seconds
Race session loading:
Before: ~49 seconds
After: ~22 seconds
This represents a substantial reduction, well beyond the ~20% improvement suggested in official notes.
While still not class-leading, this brings LMU closer to competitors such as:
Assetto Corsa Competizione
iRacing
🎮 Force Feedback & TrueForce Integration
Update 1.3 also introduces expanded support for:
Force feedback effects
Haptic systems such as TrueForce
🔍 Hardware Observations
On Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel:
Effects are present but relatively subtle
Less pronounced than in titles like
Gran Turismo 7
On non-TrueForce systems:
Effects translate into standard force feedback adjustments
On other direct drive systems:
Limited or no noticeable change depending on compatibility
Overall, implementation is functional but currently less developed compared to leading titles.
⚖️ Balance of Performance (BoP) Updates
The update also includes BoP adjustments, affecting multiple cars.
Notably:
Some GT3 entries, including McLaren 720S GT3, appear to receive performance tweaks
These changes aim to improve class balance, though their full impact will depend on ongoing multiplayer data.
🆕 DLC Content Overview
🏎️ Duqueine D09 (LMP3)
The Duqueine D09 completes the LMP3 grid.
Key characteristics:
Stable and predictable handling
Responsive front-end
Manageable under most conditions
Compared to other LMP3 cars, it presents as a balanced and accessible option, particularly for drivers new to the class.
🏁 Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
The addition of Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya continues LMU’s trend of high-quality track releases.
Modern layout included
Detailed visuals and track surface
Kerb behaviour remains usable under LMU physics
As with previous releases, track quality aligns with expectations from Studio 397.
🗺️ Additional Track Layout Updates
Beyond the DLC, several layout expansions have been added:
Portimão and Spa – expanded grid support
Silverstone – national and international layouts
Paul Ricard – multiple additional configurations
These changes increase variety within the existing track roster.
⚠️ Ongoing Limitations
Despite improvements, some areas remain incomplete:
❌ No Career Mode Yet
The absence of a structured career continues to limit long-term progression.
❌ Limited Free Track Content
The base game still relies heavily on DLC for track variety, which may affect accessibility for new players.
❌ TrueForce Still Underdeveloped
Haptic feedback integration exists but lacks the refinement seen in competing titles.
📈 Performance & Stability
There are indications of improved FPS stability, although results may vary depending on hardware.
No major regressions have been observed in this update.
🧠 Final Verdict
Update 1.3 represents another incremental but meaningful step forward for Le Mans Ultimate.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Significant load time improvements
✅ Expanded track layouts
✅ Solid new LMP3 content
⚠️ Limited evolution in core gameplay systems
⚠️ Missing career mode still notable
The update focuses more on foundational improvements than headline features—suggesting ongoing preparation for future platform expansion.
