Source: A car design contest announcement on car manufacturer Peugeot's Web site.

　　What we heard: Project Gotham Racing 3 sat pole position for the Xbox 360 launch, was critically lauded for both its gameplay and graphics, and was considered by some to be an early benchmark for next-gen graphics. The Project Gotham Racing series is currently the reigning Xbox-exclusive racing champ, so the prospect of continuing the series seems like a no-brainer.

　　It's no surprise, then, that word of Project Gotham 4 has already spread on the Internet. What is surprising, however, is its source. On the Web site of car manufacturer Peugeot, the company has announced a car design contest, which runs from October 6 to December 4. The winner will see his or her design turned into a full-scale model, which will be displayed at the Frankfurt 2007 Motor Show and will be included as a drivable car in the "Project Gotham Racing 4 game, exclusively on Xbox 360 that will be released towards the end of 2007 or first half of 2008," according to the contest rules. 

　　Developer Bizarre Creations, the studio behind the Project Gotham Racing series, hasn't yet revealed any details on PGR4, nor has it said the game is currently in the works. The company is putting together The Club for Sega, which will hit multiple platforms sometime next year.

　　Even without any official announcement of PGR4, the game is almost certainly planned, if not already in development. The release date is suspect, however. Given that PGR3 has been out only since late last year, it's a bit too early to speculate on how long it will take for the next-generation's first true sequel. On the other hand, the PGR series has seen a new installment every two years, putting 2007 right in the headlights.

　　The official story: When asked for comment, a Microsoft representative said: "We have not made any announcements at this time."

　　Bogus or not bogus?: Project Gotham Racing 4 in the works? Not bogus. Release date of 2007/2008? Probably not bogus, but we'll wait for official word from Bizarre first.