The latest update to Gran Turismo 5 Prologue has turned the game into a video download platform rivaling the console you play it on, with episodes of Top Gear and other auto shows, plus exclusive HD content filmed just for the game. Also packed in the update are some gameplay fixes, although we're still waiting for Sony to put real collision damage in our Real Driving Simulator. One step beyond watching HD video of others playing the game, all the content that costs is available for $.99 for the first two weeks, if you're still not sure check out the PlayStation Blog's video embedded below, or hit the read link to download 720p video of the Japanese version's video marketplace in action.

Remember how excited we were to hear that the next season of Top Gear might be delivered from across the pond in HD glory, and that NBC was considering producing an American edition? How we danced in the streets, partook of libations, and slaughtered the fatted calf? Scratch all that, as it appears neither is coming to fruition, at least anytime soon. Autoblog has word that NBC couldn't find a cast for Top Gear (although they've had no problem scratching together a group for that abomination of a Knight Rider remake), while the BBC edition is without a debut date for a new (& shortened) season, and has only word of "specific production challenges" when questioned about HD. While we've been blessed with a bevy of horsepower in HD this year, it's just not the same without Jeremy, Richard and The Stig.

Read - We've been lied to: New episodes of Top Gear actually not coming June 15
Read - NBC passes on U.S. Top Gear for now

Just in case a remake of Knight Rider wasn't enough, NBC has now ordered up a pilot for a US edition of Top Gear. For those unfamiliar, the show has proven to be quite the success across the pond, but apparently, the network feels that it'll do quite alright here in America, too. Reportedly, casting is currently underway for hosts, and it's also noted that the pilot will be filmed around Los Angeles, California in front of an audience. One detail that isn't mentioned, however, is whether or not it'll air in high-definition. 'Course, it's easy to assume the answer to be "yes," but considering that some hits (Survivor, for instance) are still inexplicably stuck in SD, we suppose we should still cross our fingers just in case.

[Via Autoblog]