New supercars unveiled for Forza Horizon's #EscapeTheGrid festival

Microsoft has whisked the wrappers off all but one of the 10 throbbing, glistening paragons of automotion you'll see at next week's #EscapeTheGrid event - a 1000 km race from Paris to the Top Gear LIVE venue in Birmingham.

The language the event's organisers are using to describe each roadster is, well - "excitable" is putting it mildly. Today they revealed the 2010 Maserati Gran Turismo S, for instance. Apparently, "when you enter a Maserati GTS you will be blown away by the poise and refinement of every detail." I love being blown away by poise. It's so much more soothing than being blown away by (e.g.) the backwash from a passing herd of elephants.

"When you drive one all the beauty of its luxury is overwhelmed by its performance," the listing continues. "The roar of its Ferrari-built powerplant rages up to a 7,500 rpm redline." Are we sure the Maserati Gran Turismo S is, in fact, a car, ladies and gentlemen? Because it sounds more like an exploding panther. "Beauty of its luxury" alone gives me friction burns.

Other cars confirmed to appear at #EscapeTheGrid are the 2012 Jaguar XKR, Audi R8 Spyder, BMW M3, and the 2012 Nissan GT-R Black Edition, or which we're reminded that "any true import lover will bow in its presence or suck exhaust should they try to step to it on the road". In other words, you'll appreciate this vehicle or die of carbon monoxide poisoning. OK then.

#EscapeTheGrid kicks off on 23rd October, lasts four days and encompasses four different events. Forza Horizon itself launches on 26th October. We'll have a man at the event, reporting from the inside of one of those cars. Anything you want to know?

Read our Forza Horizon review if you haven't already. Game's a good 'un.