
In Forza Horizon 2, you don't buy cars based on a traditional "level" system. Instead, your access to cars is gated by your Player Level. As you level up by completing events, discovering roads, and performing skill chains, the Autoshow inventory gradually unlocks more cars for purchase with in-game credits. Essentially, the entire catalog of over 200 cars becomes available as you progress, but the high-performance vehicles are locked behind higher levels.
The primary classification for cars is the Performance Index (PI), which ranges from D (lowest) to X (highest). This PI score, displayed as a letter and number like "S1 900," is a rating of a car's overall performance potential after upgrades, not a purchase requirement. You can buy a low-PI car early on and upgrade it to a higher class.
A key feature is the Horizon Rewards system. Upon leveling up, you're often given a choice between several cars for free. This is a major way to build your garage without spending credits. The game also features Barn Finds, where you locate and restore rare classic cars, adding unique vehicles to your collection.
| Progression Method | How it Works | Impact on Car Access |
|---|---|---|
| Player Level | Earn XP from races, skills, exploration. | Unlocks more cars for purchase in the Autoshow. |
| Championship Progress | Win championship series against rivals. | Rewards with specific high-value cars. |
| Horizon Rewards | Free car choice offered every few levels. | Directly adds cars to your garage. |
| Barn Finds | Locate hidden barns on the map. | Unlocks rare, classic cars after restoration. |
| Credits (CR) | Earned from winning events. | Used to buy any unlocked car from the Autoshow. |
Your strategy should be to play through the game's championships and explore the open world to level up efficiently. Don't spend all your credits on one expensive car early; use the free Horizon Rewards to diversify your garage for different event types.

It's all about your driver level, not the car's level. You start with a small selection of affordable cars. As you race and explore the map, you gain XP and level up. Every time you level up, the game unlocks more cars in the showroom for you to buy with credits. It’s a steady drip-feed of new options. The best part is the free cars you get every few levels—always take the most expensive one to boost your bank account!

Think of it as a tiered unlock system. The game holds back the Ferraris and Lamborghinis initially. You prove yourself by winning races in lower-class cars, which increases your "Horizon" status. This progress unlocks more advanced events and, crucially, adds the high-performance machines to the dealership. It’s a reward loop: race well to unlock the ability to buy faster cars, which lets you race in more prestigious events.

The real gatekeeper is your Player Level. I focused on completing championships and finding all the bonus boards that give XP boosts. By the time I hit level 50 or so, almost every car was available for purchase. The Autoshow menu visually changes as you level up, with new manufacturers and models appearing. It’s less about a car's level and more about your progression as a driver on the festival roster.

Forza Horizon 2 uses your personal level as the key. You begin with access to common hot hatches and sports cars. The supercars and hypercars are locked until you reach higher levels, which requires consistent play. My advice is to participate in every type of event—street races, off-road, PR stunts—to maximize your XP gain. Also, always check the Horizon Rewards; those free cars save a ton of credits for when the really desirable models become available in the Autoshow.


