Sony today announced the availability of the new 80GB PlayStation 3 on sale in the US.

The system, available immediately, will cost $599 in the US and $659 in Canada. It will also come with road racing game MotorStorm packed in the box.

However, UK customers keen to get more hard drive space will be disappointed - the new bigger hard drive sporting model won't be coming to the UK.

According to SCEA; “The 80GB PS3 offers expanded options in the PS3 family of products for those who want to enjoy more downloadable content”.

The 80GB model joins the existing 60GB PS3 that has been available since last November.

The 60GB model has seen a surge in sales following a price reduction in the US and Canada in July of $100 to $499 in the US and $549 in Canada.

Sony in the UK caused outrage amongst gamers when it failed to carry the price reductions over to Europe, opting instead to offer a Value Pack with a further controller and more games in the box.