DRIVEN ‘24

For car enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of a top-tier car show. DRIVEN, one of Canada’s premier modified car events, makes its way across the vast provinces of Canada every year. It stands as a testament to the artistry and passion that fuel the automotive world. This year’s show promised to be a spectacular exhibition, featuring a dazzling array of modified vehicles from American, Japanese, and German manufacturers. Whether you're a die-hard gearhead or a casual admirer of automotive beauty, DRIVEN was certainly a place to be last weekend.

DRIVEN Toronto isn’t just a car show; it’s a celebration of diverse automotive cultures. The event brings together the best of American muscle, Japanese precision, and German engineering. Each of these automotive traditions has its own unique flair, and DRIVEN provides the perfect platform to appreciate their differences and similarities. A change of venue this year saw the show move from the outdoor rooftop setting of Square One to the very lavish surroundings of the Great Canadian Casino & Resort, more specifically, the underground car park, which, as you might imagine, when equipped with the correct number of RX7s, Evos and GTRs, gives off the perfect amount of Tokyo Drift vibes.

Think raw power and bold design. The American section of DRIVEN features iconic models from manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge. There was also a host lifted trucks on display which always suprise me with the sheer level of detail that goes into all aspects of the vehicle. You’ll see some of the extensive work on display if you watch the video attached below but its safe to say that nothing is left unmodified in this sub-genre of the automotive world.

The Japanese vehicles on display highlight meticulous engineering and a parts list that would bring a tear to the eye of most grown men. Featuring legends like the GT-R, Supra, and WRX Impreza’s, these cars are known for their balance of speed, agility, and reliability. The mods list had my bank account struggling to breathe at times, such is the prominence of expensive mirrors, wheels, seats and carbon bits and pieces. Theres just an exceptional amount of nods towards Japan’s commitment to automotive excellence.

The German section showcased the mastery of brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. Renowned for their precision and luxury, these vehicles are the epitome of sophistication and performance. It was great to see impeccably modified BMW M3s on TE37s like in the feature photo, Audi RS models in all shapes and sizes and AMG badges coming out of your ears, each one exuding class and engineering luxury.

DRIVEN Toronto is more than just a static display of cars; it was an immersive experience. Attendees were able to engage with interactive exhibits, eBay motors had a strong line for their on-the-spot prizes and the fanfare surrounding the presence of Nakai-san from RWB never let go all day with the line to meet him and the newest of the RWB Canada fleet growing larger and largewr as the day went on. The show also features a vibrant marketplace where you can find everything from the latest performance parts to custom accessories and memorabilia.

For those who love competition, the show also includes a series of contests and awards. Categories range from Best Modified Car to Best In Show, with judges considering factors like design, performance enhancements, and overall impact. There was a friendly and inviting approach from any of the judsges I spoke to and that added an extra layer of excitement and positivity to the event.

At its core, DRIVEN Toronto is about community. It’s a place where car lovers of all ages and backgrounds can come together to share their passion. The event fosters a sense of camaraderie, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and build lasting friendships.

Whether you’re there to admire the cars, learn from the experts, or simply soak in the atmosphere, this show offers something for everyone. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the art of car modification and appreciate the incredible machines that result from this labor of love that we all know and spend years dedidcated towards.

I’ll certainly be marking my calendar for the next event.