By now, we’ve accepted the fact we have no clue as to when Gran Turismo 5 will be released. Fortunately, Need for Speed SHIFT is here to take our minds off of GT5.

What’s more: EA is ramping up NFS:S for both the Playstation 3 and the X-Box 360 with an all-new Exotic Racing Series pack that’s due to be launched on March 18. And as the name clearly suggests, this racing pack comes with a boatload of exotic cars for our virtual driving pleasure.

Among the machines that are included in the downloadable content package includes the McLaren MP4-12C, the Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss, the Alfa 8C Competizione, the Maserati GranTurismo S, the BMW M1 Procar, the Gumpert Apollo->ke1056, and the Acura NSX->ke307.

In addition to that, the Exotic Racing Series DLC also comes with a number of new track layouts and new events to test how you’re driving skills match up to everyone else. The DLC costs $10 on either the Playstation Network or Xbox Live.

Press Release after the jump

Need For Speed SHIFT Expands The True Driver's Experience With Exotic Racing Series Pack

Get in the Race with Seven Celebrated New Cars on the New Riviera Track

EA today announced the all-new Exotic Racing Series pack for Need for Speed SHIFT. On March 18th, gamers will have access to seven phenomenal new cars and an amazing new track in the game. Highlighting this exclusive pack of cars are the McLaren MP4-12C and the legendary BMW M1. Players won't find more brilliance, innovation, or drama than in these magnificent machines, where each is a potent mix of race car and road car. The Exotic Racing Series pack will be available worldwide on the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system for $10.00 or the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system for $10.00 or 800 Microsoft Points*.

Over 50 exciting new events have also been created specifically for these cars including time challenges, endurance and sprint races. The challenging and spectacular new Riviera track boasts four unique layouts, each with daring corners, multiple blazing straight-aways and a few hairpins that will push these cars to the limit. Players that complete the package will receive an additional 125 Microsoft gamerpoints or 5 PlayStation Trophies as a reward for undertaking various exciting challenges.

The Exotic Racing Series pack cars include:

Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

BMW M1 Procar

GUMPERT apollo

Honda NSX

McLaren MP4-12C

Maserati GranTurismo S

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss

Need for Speed SHIFT features an intense first-person crash dynamic and a signature cockpit view that delivers a true driver's experience. The game further personalizes the experience through the all-new driver profile -- a unique persona based on the driving skill and style of each player. With a perfect '10' score from GameSpy.com and G4TV.com, and 90+ scores from IGN.com, Official Xbox Magazine, PlayStation: The Official Magazine, Team Xbox.com, Game Daily.com, Gametrailers.com and more, Need for Speed SHIFT is the highest rated Need for Speed game in years.

Need for Speed SHIFT is now available on the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC, PSP (PlayStation Portable) system, mobile and the iPhone. More information can be found at the Official Website or follow us on Twitter at NeedforSpeed.

* Need for Speed SHIFT and Xbox LIVE or PlayStation Network account required