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| The Voice of Horsepower: Remembering Racing Legend Tom Hnatiw |
If you spent any time watching the Speed Channel in the 2000s, you definitely remember the unmistakable voice, the radiant smile, and the ultimate car guy philosophy of Tom Hnatiw (1958–2012). As a legendary Canadian automotive journalist, TV host, and racing announcer, Tom didn't just cover car culture—he lived it at 150 miles per hour.
Best known for co-hosting the hit television show Dream Car Garage, Tom left an unerasable mark on the automotive world. Here is a look back at the life of a man who turned his pure passion for racing into an extraordinary career.
📺 "Do You Want a Car Like This?!"
From 2000 to 2008, Tom shared the screen with Peter Klutt on Speed Channel's Dream Car Garage. It was here that he delivered his most famous, career-defining catchphrase while reviewing high-performance machines:
"Do you need a car like this? No. Do you want a car like this???"
It perfectly captured the raw, emotional thrill of being a gearhead. Tom wasn't just a talking head; he was a creative powerhouse behind the scenes. He founded and owned the Internal Combustion Group, a TV production company that brought automotive stories to life. Over his career, he was involved in producing more than 500 automotive television shows, including fan favorites like Hard Drive and Sports Car Revolution.
🏁 A True Racer On and Off the Track
Tom didn't just talk about fast cars—he knew exactly how to drive them. He spent 15 years behind the wheel as a competitive racing driver, reaching the pinnacle of his personal racing career in 1998 when he became the Canadian GT3 co-champion.
His deep technical knowledge and track experience made him the perfect live race announcer. He became the voice and official spokesperson for major events, including the SRT Viper Cup series for the North American Road Racing Association (NARRA). Alongside his media empire, he also co-owned a massive 5,000-square-foot race shop.
✍️ The Written Word
When he wasn’t on camera or in the announcer’s booth, Tom was reaching car enthusiasts through print. He authored several widely read automotive columns and was a regular featured writer for major publications, including the Toronto Star. His storytelling style was just like his personality: honest, engaging, and deeply knowledgeable.
🌅 A Legacy That Keeps On Driving
Tragically, Tom's journey was cut short when he passed away from kidney failure in July 2012 at the age of 53, leaving behind his wife, Debbie, and his two sons, Nick and Wyatt.
The racing community felt the loss deeply. Following his passing, NARRA President Tom Antonelli perfectly summarized what made Tom so special:
"His genuine passion for racing, concern for the well-being of drivers, and the way he made every competitor feel as welcome... His beaming smile, and that unmistakable voice, will be truly missed."
Tom Hnatiw understood that cars aren't just tools to get from point A to point B—they are instruments of joy, excitement, and community.
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