The concept of "live to drive" or the passion for driving explained through the emotional angle

Considering driving a car as a simple action to move from point A to point B does not reflect the true definition of this term. Indeed, driving also involves guiding, directing and transporting people or things, according to the dictionaries.

This reductive vision does not take into account the immaterial and emotional aspect of driving, which is a source of pleasure, freedom and independence. If driving was limited to this hands-on approach, the automotive industry would never have boomed like this, and mankind would have lost the opportunity to have one of life's most rewarding experiences.

Each driver feels a multitude of sensations , far beyond the simple action of guiding a vehicle, which make driving a unique and enriching experience.

Our brain likes a challenge

When we drive consciously, we engage our five senses and activate all of our abilities simultaneously. We stimulate and motivate our brain, feeling satisfaction at the idea of ​​going somewhere, getting behind the wheel of a car we like or discovering a new road.

Dopamine plays a key role in our behavior, motivation and reward. As a neurotransmitter synthesized by our body, it helps neurons communicate with each other and is associated with pleasure and well-being.

It is often produced when we are driving or about to drive, such as during a car trip or a walk in nature. This experience can arouse pleasant sensations and do us good.

Enjoying these moments and indulging yourself helps improve mental and physical health , making us happier, more satisfied and more comfortable with ourselves. In short, it is important to savor every moment of life, including when driving.

Freedom, or when what matters is the journey

When we talk about a film that takes place on the road, commonly called a "road movie", we find ourselves immersed in a scenario that differs from other films. Although the road and the means of transport are physical elements, it is above all the evolution of the scenario that provides new emotions throughout the film, moving us away from the monotony and stagnation that a motionless narrative could cause.

Filmmakers have the ability to play with the freedom that driving offers , which can be interpreted in different ways. Thelma & Louise and The Devil on Wheels are two contrasting examples of how freedom of driving is portrayed in film, the former being a tribute to freedom, while the latter takes the idea to the extreme, showing the negative effect of too much freedom.

The simple act of moving involves great freedom, as we constantly have to make decisions about which direction to take or which stops to make based on various factors. This concept of freedom behind the wheel is particularly important when it comes to leisure trips, where the trip itself is the main objective, whether using a motorhome or driving to enjoy the landscapes, visit charming towns or savor a culinary experience, among others.

When the driver "likes" to drive

We are faced with a greedy driver, who sees his car as an extension of his body and feels great harmony with it when he drives.

The Toyota GR range perfectly embodies the philosophy of designing cars that can go from race to road. These top-of-the-range sports cars are designed with the knowledge and technology necessary for competition, offering limitless sensations and pleasures to all passionate motor enthusiasts.

Toyota 's GR and GR SPORT models bring the passion of motor racing to life in production cars. The range offers up to six models with the sportiest finish, such as the Yaris GR SPORT , Corolla GR SPORT , Corolla Touring Sports GR SPORT , Toyota C-HR GR SPORT , RAV4 GR SPORT and Hilux GR SPORT , which are the gateways to the GR universe .

For those looking for a true sports driving experience, Toyota offers the GR models such as the GR 86 , GR Yaris and GR Supra .

These vehicles offer a combination of power and agility on the road and on the track, with engines that provide an exciting driving experience, design lines and colors that inspire admiration, a comfortable interior that makes you want to never get out of the car again, as well as complete active and passive safety. Everything comes together for an exhilarating driving experience.

As much as you want with the RAV4 GR SPORT

If we aspire to surpass our limits and overcome all the obstacles in front of us, it is undeniable that the RAV4 GR SPORT , an authentic SUV , should be our road partner. This latest-generation sports model goes well beyond its design and equipment by offering an exceptional driving experience thanks in particular to its advanced suspension which considerably improves driving sensations.

Stiffer front and rear springs improve the RAV4 's agility and response , thanks to its heavy-duty suspension consisting of MacPherson struts up front and double wishbones in the rear, each fitted with stabilizer bars. Currently, only the 2.5-liter hybrid-electric version is available, but an additional GR SPORT version will also be launched in 2024 in the form of the RAV4 Plug-in GR SPORT .

If you're into driving, you can enjoy it by pairing it with your favorite activities, while keeping other road users safe so everyone can enjoy it. Of course, driving isn't necessarily enjoyed by everyone.