CPU-controlled heavyweight karts always take the top positions. Additionally, all characters race in mixed teams. In this level, CPU drivers can take down players using the items against them. The minimum top speed in the karts is high, and CPU drivers have a wider selection of Items, most notably, the Spiny Shell's addition. The minimum top speed is fairly average, while CPU drivers have a wider selection of items: they may Red Shells to shoot it to the player in front of them. The minimum top speed is low for all karts and CPU racers have a very limited selection of items. The difficulty level against CPU racers increases while selecting the engine class which are four: In Grand Prix Mode, the player needs to win the cups against computer-controlled opponents.

For the first time in the series, the players are invincible against their own items. However, Coins, Kart Customization and Underwater Racing don't. Also added from Mario Kart 7, Gliders do reappear. Like Mario Kart 7, 1st person mode is added, and Tricks also make a comeback. The classes the characters are seperated into are not longer depended on size, but classes like Speed, Technique and Power are added. However, there are also some differences. A team consists out of a driver, and a character who takes care of the items. The gameplay is much like Mario Kart: Double Dash!!, players race with 2 characters on one kart, and Special Items return (which are now called Super Specials).

Mario kart 7 all characters