Introducing The Car Catwalk: The Ultimate Showdown to Crown Japfest Goodwood’s Car of the Show

Think your build has what it takes to beat the best? New for Japfest Goodwood, we’re launching Car Catwalk, an all-new live competition that will see 16 of the show’s finest cars go head-to-head in a knockout battle to be crowned Car of the Show. But unlike traditional judging competitions, this one puts the power in the hands of the people…

Artist’s Impression Of The Car Catwalk

The Top 16 Battle Begins

The crowd will decide who progresses, who goes home and ultimately which car walks away with one of the most coveted awards at the event. Car Catwalk starts with a carefully selected line-up of 16 standout builds from across the show. From immaculate restorations and rare JDM legends to wild wide-body creations and cutting-edge performance builds, only the very best cars will earn a place in the competition. Once selected, the 16 finalists will enter the first knockout round where eight cars will go head-to-head against another eight. The audience will cast their votes, deciding which cars have done enough to progress to the next stage.

From Quarter Finals to the Grand Final

The eight winning cars will then advance to the quarter finals, where the competition becomes even tougher. Only four cars will survive to reach the semi-finals.

Then comes the final showdown. Two cars. One stage. One winner.

With the crowd once again making the decision, the final pair will go wheel-to-wheel for the title of Japfest Goodwood Car of the Show. Expect drama, debate and plenty of passionate support as owners battle it out in front of hundreds of fellow enthusiasts.

Judged By The People

Car Catwalk is designed to celebrate what makes Japfest special, the community. Every attendee has their own idea of the perfect build. Some love immaculate OEM+ restorations. Others prefer outrageous power figures, motorsport-inspired engineering or show-stopping visual modifications. That’s why we’re putting the decision directly in the hands of the audience. Every vote counts, and every car has the chance to win over the crowd.

A Trophy Worth Winning

The winner won’t just receive bragging rights. They’ll take home a stunning bespoke trophy, handcrafted exclusively for the competition by the talented team at ManCave Pembs. Created specifically for the inaugural Car Catwalk competition, this unique award will be a true one-off piece worthy of the car that claims the title. With only one available, competition is guaranteed to be fierce.

Think Your Car Has What It Takes?

Applications for the Car Catwalk Top 16 will be opening soon. If you think your build deserves a place in the spotlight and a chance to compete for the title of Car of the Show, you’ll want to be ready. We’ll be revealing application details very soon, so keep a close eye on the Japfest website news section and our social media channels for further announcements.

Could your car be the one standing centre stage when the dust settles? There’s only one way to find out…