The British Automotive update for Forza Horizon 6 launched on September 7, introducing one of the biggest additions to the Shared World library in recent years: Drift Attack. Playground Games describes this new mode as “Time Attack for drifters.”

How Drift Attack Works

Drift Attack blends the accessibility of Drift Zones with the competitive edge of Horizon Drift. Unlike traditional races, there’s no finish order or fastest lap—your goal is to rack up the highest drift score possible in a single lap. You can enter the mode by driving straight through a gantry at Shimanoyama Circuit from the open world, with no loading screens or menus. Take as many runs as you like, solo, in a Convoy, or against other players you meet in the Shared World.

Scoring System and Clipping Zones

The scoring system is similar to Horizon Drift and Drift Zones but with an important twist: Clipping Zones placed around the track multiply your points when you drift through them. This makes it crucial not just to chain long drifts, but also to hit the right zones at the right time.

How to Unlock

Drift Attack unlocks when you earn the Yellow Wristband during the main campaign progression at the Horizon Festival. Once you’ve met this requirement, Shimanoyama Circuit appears on your map with its own special icon.

Reward Car: 1990 Jaguar XJ-S

Players who complete the Drift Attack segment in the Festival Campaign will receive a Forza Edition 1990 Jaguar XJ-S, specially tuned for drifting. You don’t need to top the leaderboard—just finishing the relevant campaign section is enough. Completing the Collection Diary entry also unlocks an exclusive Drift Attack racing suit and helmet.

Best Car Picks

The community is already picking favorites. Lightweight, high-angle rear-wheel drive (RWD) builds stand out:

• Formula Drift #151 Toyota GR Supra
• Nissan Silvia S15
• Toyota AE86 Sprinter Trueno
• Mazda RX-7 (FD)

These cars are tuned for controlled slides rather than raw power. For those aiming for the top of the leaderboard, the current meta favors low-power, high-angle setups that can stay within Clipping Zones.

Community’s First Impressions

One user from Reddit’s r/ForzaHorizon community called it “the best update yet,” praising the depth the Clipping Zone system adds to scoring. The Drift Attack leaderboard now displays the drivetrain type (FWD, RWD, AWD) for each entry, a nod to the ongoing “AWD vs RWD” debate among fans.

Permanent, But Not the Only One

The Drift Attack layout at Shimanoyama is here to stay, but Playground Games has confirmed that future Series updates will bring temporary “Evolving World” Drift Attack locations as well. Shimanoyama remains your permanent practice spot, while new events will rotate in at different locations over the coming months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I unlock Drift Attack?

You need to earn the Yellow Wristband in the main Horizon Festival campaign progression, then Shimanoyama Circuit will appear on your map.

Do I need to be first on the leaderboard to win the 1990 Jaguar XJ-S?

No, simply complete the Drift Attack section in the Festival Campaign to receive the car.

Which platforms support Drift Attack?

The feature is available on Xbox Series X|S, the Xbox app on PC, and Steam.