Forza Horizon 3
Forza Horizon 3

Upgrade Principles — Forza Horizon 3 Guide

Learn upgrade principles for Forza Horizon 3. Modify engine swaps, aspiration, and drivetrain to significantly alter a car's Performance Index (PI).

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Upgrading your cars is essential for staying competitive. The 'Upgrades & Tuning' menu in the garage allows you to modify almost every aspect of your vehicle. Here are the main upgrade categories:

Upgrade Principles - Forza Horizon 3 screenshot
Upgrade Principles
  • Conversion: Engine swaps, drivetrain swaps (FWD to AWD, RWD to AWD), aspiration changes (turbo/supercharger). These can drastically change a car's character and PI.
  • Engine: Improves horsepower and torque. Focus on these for straight-line speed.
  • Platform and Handling: Tires, wheels, brakes, suspension, anti-roll bars, weight reduction. These are crucial for grip, cornering, and overall control. Tires are often the most impactful upgrade for handling.
  • Drivetrain: Clutch, transmission, driveline, differential. Affects acceleration, shifting speed, and power delivery.
  • Aero and Appearance: Spoilers, bumpers, side skirts. Aerodynamic parts can improve downforce and handling, especially at high speeds, but also add weight.

When upgrading, consider the event type. For road races, prioritize tires, suspension, and engine power. For off-road, focus on rally suspension, off-road tires, and potentially an AWD conversion. Always aim to maximize performance within your target PI class.