SCEA finally announced today, fulfilling many a boy racer's wet dream, that the release for the long awaited Gran Turismo 5 has finally be set in North America.

The game is slated to arrive on April 17th, on the PS3 of course. It will be available for $39.99 SRP on Blu-ray and as a download via PLAYSTATION Store. The BD version will offer added value with an exclusive behind-the-scenes HD video feature called "Beyond the Apex".

The game itself features over 60 meticulously detailed vehicles from manufacturers such as Ferrari , Audi and Nissan with an aim for players to experience the vehicle-specific physics technology and intricate graphical rendering that have made the previous games shine. Additionally, for the first time in the history of the franchise, users can race online with up to 16 vehicles at a time on tracks from around the globe, including Daytona International Speedway and a London City track (just watch out for the congestion charge).

{class="quote" “Ten years following the introduction of Gran Turismo™ on PS one®, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue delivers the most realistic and technologically advanced racing experience on any platform,” said Jeff Reese, Director, Software Marketing, SCEA. “With 1080p graphics, revolutionary online features like Gran Turismo™ TV and the new in-cockpit racing view, the world’s best-selling racing franchise will once again set the standard for racing games.”

Gran Turismo 5 Prologue will feature various innovative and revolutionary modes to harness PS3 system’s capabilities while further developing an automotive lifestyle and global community . Among them is Gran Turismo™TV, a new dedicated online channel available exclusively from PLAYSTATION®Network that delivers worldwide motorsport programming and manufacturer content. Additionally, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue will support online racing events to foster community competition. A new in-cockpit view will provide a unique perspective for racers and features real-time gauges and human animations that accurately represent the true performance and handling of each vehicle . To extend the realistic driving experience, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue is also compatible with the new DUALSHOCK®3 controller, which has vibration functionality.