Ever since lap times at the Nurburgring became a benchmark for a vehicle’s over-all performance, there has been a need to find a ‘benchmark’ track in the USA. Car and Driver, along with many other enthusiasts, think we already have such a track, the Virginia International Raceway (VIR).

Virginia International Raceway seems to be the ideal choice for testing a vehicle’s over-all performance dynamics. With the elevation changes, the Grand West Course’s 4.1 miles, 28 turns and proven effectiveness to challenge experienced race car drivers, VIR is the ideal home-grown Nurburgring. Car and Driver sets out to VIR for their Lightning Lap annual track torture test and brings us the official preview to the dueling test along with a run-down of the contenders. Enjoy the video below!