CarX Drift Racing 3 – PlayStation, Xbox, & Switch Release Dates

The mobile release of CarX Drift Racing 3 offers a taster of what’s coming to consoles soon, and it’ll undoubtedly be worth the wait.

CarX Technologies revolutionized the drift gaming sector in recent years. Following the release of CarX Drift Racing, the first game of the series, in 2014, it transformed from a humble mobile drifting game into a global phenomenon.

The original game eventually reached over 30 million downloads, with the CarX series becoming one of the most respected franchises across multiple gaming platforms after the many releases that followed.

To the dismay of many loyal fans, the latest installment, CarX Drift Racing 3, continues the developer’s mobile-first release approach, launching on Android and iOS devices on December 5, 2024.

Although mobile-only (for now), CarX 3 is already impressing mobile gamers with its groundbreaking physics engine, revolutionary damage modeling, and deeper tuning and customization than ever before. And the new features don’t stop there.

Console players awaiting their turn will need to wait a little longer. While CarX Technologies repeatedly confirmed console versions are coming in their X/Twitter FAQs, they’ll arrive following the PC release. This strategy follows CarX’s previous patterns, allowing the team to refine the experience across each platform.

The team is known for their unconventional approach to new releases, often teasing details for many years and suddenly announcing a new game just a couple of weeks before release, so be prepared for surprises.

Despite the wait, it’s gotta be said that we’re expecting this latest addition to the CarX lineup to justify the wait based on the mobile version, and we’re diving into why.

PlayStation/Xbox/Switch Release Date

CarX Tech confirmed console versions of CarX Drift Racing 3 will arrive following the (easier-to-build) mobile and PC release launch.

CarX Drift Racing 3 is expected to arrive on consoles in 2025, but an exact release date is yet to be confirmed.

Given the team’s last-minute approach to announcing their releases, you can expect a sudden surprise!

Although the exact consoles are yet to be confirmed, it’s expected to be released on all the latest platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.

While last-gen consoles like PlayStation 4 and Xbox One haven’t been ruled out, the advanced physics engine and new damage modeling system might prove too demanding for older hardware.

Expected Release Timeline

These details are yet to be confirmed, so take them with a pinch of salt until the official confirmation arrives. After all, CarX is known for taking a little longer than the fans would like with these huge projects!

• Mobile: December 5, 2024 (Free-to-play)
• PC: Early 2025
• PlayStation 5: Summer/Fall 2025
• Xbox Series X|S: Summer/Fall 2025
• Nintendo Switch: Summer/Fall 2025
• PS4/Xbox One: Awaiting confirmation

Pricing Details

Pricing for CarX Drift Racing 3 on consoles has yet to be announced. However, the mobile version on iOS and Android is free to play.

Based on previous releases, expect more reasonable pricing than premium alternatives such as the Forza Horizon series.

While we wait for further details, let’s take a look at the confirmed details of the new game.

Soft-Body Damage Physics

When the CarX team first showcased their groundbreaking damage system in early preview videos, many doubters claimed it wouldn’t make it to the final game.

The skepticism was understandable since their initial footage showed insane levels of detail, from metal panels bending realistically, body panels flying off, and glass shattering on impact.

It looked too good to be true compared to rival drifting games, more like what we’ve seen from dedicated crash-physics games like BeamNG.drive and Wreckfest.

Following this, CarX responded to critics by releasing more footage. The second showcase on their YouTube channel pushed things even further, demonstrating chassis-bending crashes that left vehicles barely recognizable.

Still, they maintained the disclaimer “Does not represent the final look of the game,” which continued fueling the speculation.

Then came the real-world gameplay as Russian gamers got early access to the game, sharing genuine in-game footage that silenced the skeptics.

Even minor collisions showed impressively realistic detail – bumpers hanging loose after clipping a lamppost, fenders crumpling realistically during wall taps. The damage system ties directly to crash physics, with every impact affecting the car’s condition based on collision intensity.

During tandem battles, detached panels can get caught under wheels, adding another challenge to the already difficult door-to-door driving. Doors flap when their latching mechanisms are compromised, and fiberglass panels can explode on impact.

Players can minimize potential damage through additional safety equipment like bash bars and reinforced body components. While everything remains repairable, though it takes time, this adds consequences to excessively aggressive driving styles.

This soft-body physics engine creates a new standard for drift gaming. It’s also one that CarX’s rivals may struggle to compete with, given their official licensing restrictions, which often don’t allow such extensive damage.

In-Game Mods, Upgrades & Tuning

CarX DR3 takes vehicle customization to the next level with its most comprehensive tuning system to date.

Unlike previous games, where modifications were applied simultaneously, the new system provides a far more in-depth tuning experience, where you can carry out all sorts of tuning to just about every aspect of your car.

Component Customization

You’re now able to modify all sorts of specific parts:

• Swap out individual body panels
• Restructure the interior, including removing the rear seats and other aspects for weight-saving
• Customize specific sections of the front, side, and rear bash bars
• Replace individual mirrors, allowing for asymmetrical setups

Paint & Aesthetics

The newly improved paint booth offers even more customization:

• Access every imaginable color through detailed slider controls
• Paint every specific component individually, such as bash bars or individual body panels
• Color the chassis independently from the body

Performance Modifications

It’s not only the external visuals that get an upgrade, either. The development team used laser-scanned engine models based on real prototypes, ensuring accurate mechanical components. The performance upgrade section now includes:

• Build engines from the ground up
• Fine-tuning of suspension setups
• Ability to modify transmissions and gearboxes

A standout feature allows weight reduction through various methods, such as removing body panels, which ties into the performance benefits and the damage system while reducing repair costs/time during practice sessions.

Gameplay Engine Improvements

CarX Drift Racing 3 introduces an all-new physics engine, focusing on realistic weight transfer and tire grip dynamics. This means that the game’s handling mechanics replicate how real drift cars behave better than ever before.

Road 3.0 Technology

The new “Road 3.0” surface system brings next-gen detail to track surfaces. Every bump and surface variation affects vehicle handling and grip levels, while tire marks accumulate realistically during drift sessions.

While smoking tires, you’ll encounter varying road conditions, from pristine tarmac to patched mountain passes, and you’ll need to understand how the car interacts with each surface for optimal drifting.

Physics Enhancements

The new physics engine delivers improved:

• Weight transfer mechanics during transitions
• Tire grip simulation under different conditions
• Suspension dynamics and body roll
• Counter-steering response

Dynamic Time & Weather

CarX Drift Racing 3 introduces dynamic time and weather systems to the series for the first time, transforming the familiar tracks into fresh challenges as the conditions change. Combined with the Road 3.0 Technology discussed above, this adds even more complexities.

Audio Improvements

Many fans will be glad to hear that the engine sound recording and playback have been completely overhauled, delivering a much-improved audio experience.

Each car now produces distinct engine and exhaust notes that change based on the installed mods/upgrades and driving conditions.

Tire System Improvements

Alongside the varied surface technology, the game introduces a revolutionary tire wear system replicating real-world behavior.

Fresh tires come complete with stickers that wear away after initial use (because who even has the time to take them off?)

Also, extended drifting sessions gradually deteriorate the rubber until the cords become exposed, dramatically reducing grip and inevitable damage.

Tire Management

The game features a refined tire replacement system that varies depending on the game mode.

During competitive events like Top 32 battles, tire changes are restricted to pre-race maintenance, accurately reflecting real drift competition rules.

For casual driving, you can set automatic tire change percentages to maintain optimal grip levels.

Customization Features

The new tire system also adds the following features:

• Different tire compounds on the front and rear axles
• Variable tire profiles affecting handling characteristics
• Unlimited basic tire options for practice sessions
• Advanced wear indicators showing real-time tire condition

Tracks & Locations

As you’d expect, CarX 3 focuses on delivering a track-based experience rather than an open-world environment. If open-world is your thing, you’ll want to check out CarX Street.

The following real-world circuits are featured:

Ebisu Complex, Japan

The legendary drift complex features all seven courses, including the iconic Minami (South Course) with its famous jump, alongside Nishi, Kita, Higashi, Drift Land, School Course, and the Touge Course. The KuruKuru Land skid pad rounds out the comprehensive facility that’s been a drift mecca since 1986.

Kami Road, Japan

This touge location expands significantly from the previous CarX games, now featuring an abandoned gas station, toll booth, and a traditional Japanese village. Traditional elements like cherry blossom trees, authentic road signs, and pagoda viewpoints create the perfect Japanese street drifting vibes.

Nürburgring, Germany

The world-famous Nordschleife brings European flair to the game and is known for hosting the real-world “Nürburgring Drift Cup.” Its challenging sections provide both high-speed and technical drifting opportunities, as Vaughn Gittin Jr proved with his viral Mustang drifting video.

Dominion Raceway, USA

While lesser-known in the drift scene, this American venue has hosted significant drift events like the “US Drift Shootout.”

ADM Raceway, Russia

A regular host of RDS GP drift competitions near Moscow, this track has been meticulously recreated using laser scans and extensive photo documentation, thanks to the development team’s local access.

Track Creator

While not a real-world location, the new track creator allows players to design their dream drift layouts and circuits, adding endless possibilities to the track selection for the first time.

Car List

CarX Drift Racing 3 launched on mobiles with 30 vehicles, each featuring completely revamped models, sounds, and physics. By the time it reaches consoles, there may be even more.

It introduces several new all-additions, including the Toyota GR86, Nissan 400Z, and the latest Ford Mustang.

Duplicate Cars

Players can now own multiple copies of the same car model, enabling different builds for various events.

For example, you could have one S13 set up for grip and another for competitive drift events, meaning you don’t need to worry about changing your setup and mods each time.

There are still no plans to include SUVs, trucks, and off-road vehicles in the roster.

Additional vehicles will join the roster after launch through regular updates, expanding the game’s car selection beyond the initial lineup.

New Game Modes

CarX 3 introduces the most comprehensive selection of game modes in the series’ history, from beginner-friendly challenges to pro-spec competitions.

Single-Player Campaigns

The game features five distinct era-based campaigns that take you back over the evolution of drifting:

1980s: Time Attack

This initial campaign focuses on basic car control and traditional touge runs. Players experience time attack challenges inspired by early Japanese mountain pass racing, where drifting wasn’t yet the primary focus.

1990s: Time Attack & Drift

This campaign introduces fundamental drift techniques alongside time attack challenges, representing drifting’s transition period, mirroring the sport’s evolution from mountain passes to dedicated drift venues.

2000s: Early Drift

Players encounter specialized drift challenges reflecting drifting’s emergence as a motorsport. This era showcases the sport’s global expansion and increasing technical demands.

2010s: Advanced Drifting

The final campaign tests players’ mastery of modern drift techniques with complex challenges that prepare them for competition.

Competitive Features

Alongside the history mode, there’s also plenty more to be had from the more competitive aspects of the game:

Top 32 Championships

This innovative mode pits players against AI-controlled “ghosts” of other players, introducing skill-based matchmaking while eliminating waiting times and unsportsmanlike behavior.

Enhanced XDS Judging

The completely reworked judging system evaluates runs based on trajectory, angle, and style. Tandem battles factor in chase distance and following accuracy.

Progression Systems

All new to the series, these new features add another aspect to consider:

Fan System

Build your fan following as you progress, unlocking new locations and sponsorship opportunities. Fan milestones will reward you with currency, cars, engines, and access to new content.

Contracts

The contract system offers rewards for completing specific challenges, with terms varying based on skill level and reputation. Poor performance can affect future opportunities, adding real consequences to player choices.

Additional Details

If you want to know even more about the game, we dive deeper into all the features in our comprehensive CarX Drift Racing 3 guide.

While waiting for the release, we recommend looking at the ultimate free online drifting browser game, Drift Hunters MAX. This will help satisfy your tire-shredding needs for now, thanks to its judged “Drift Attack” mode, AI traffic, and cross-platform playability between PC and mobile!

You can also enjoy what CarX Drift Racing online has to offer on your favorite consoles, and we’ve done a round-up of the best beginner drift cars in the game to get you started.

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