Toyota HiLux Wins Best in Show at Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional

The Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional recently saw the Toyota HiLux clinch the prestigious Best in Show title. This unique event, which spotlights ordinary vehicles from the years 1968 to 1989, aims to honor the “Unexceptional Era” as defined by the event’s sponsor, Hagerty. Unlike typical car shows that showcase exotic or high-performance vehicles, this festival celebrates the commonplace cars that hold sentimental value for many individuals – be it the first car they drove, a parent’s vehicle, or a familiar sight in the neighborhood.

Taking place at Grimsthorpe Castle in the UK, the 10th Festival of the Unexceptional drew a crowd of 4000 people and featured an impressive display of 2000 cars. The standout winner was a 1982 Toyota HiLux farm ute, owned by Mitch Lewis, which had dutifully served on a fruit farm in its unaltered state since its purchase. Notably, the vehicle was not restored for the event but was simply cleaned and driven to the show, emphasizing the authenticity and originality that captured the judges’ attention.

Among the other notable entries, a 1998 Renault Clio secured second place, cherished by owner Amy Jaine as a family heirloom. The Retro Repmobile award went to Luca Alpert and his 1991 Nissan Primera, who made the journey from Hanover, Germany, to participate. Additionally, the Chairman’s Award recognized Colin Corke’s well-preserved 1981 Austin Metro.

The Festival of the Unexceptional serves as a platform for enthusiasts to showcase and appreciate classic cars from an era often overlooked in traditional car shows. This event, similar to the American RADwood organized by Hagerty, plays a crucial role in preserving the heritage of these unassuming yet beloved vehicles. While events like these are prevalent in the UK and the US, there appears to be a gap in Australia’s car show scene for a similar celebration of unexceptional automobiles from the past.

With a wealth of unremarkable yet nostalgic vehicles like Camiras, Sigmas, and Lasers in Australia’s automotive history, there lies an untapped opportunity for a dedicated showcase to honor these forgotten gems. By recognizing the charm and significance of these everyday cars, such an event could attract a new generation of enthusiasts and contribute to the enduring legacy of these unassuming automotive icons.