The 'VTEC Just Kicked In, Yo!' meme is a cornerstone of automotive internet culture, specifically within the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) community. It parodies the dramatic shift in engine sound and acceleration that occurs when a Honda engine's Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control system engages at high RPMs. Originally gaining traction on car forums and early image boards in the mid-2000s, it often features images of cars in mid-flight or distorted faces expressing extreme speed. The phrase has since evolved into a catch-all punchline for any sudden increase in power or energy, serving as both a tribute to and a lighthearted jab at Honda enthusiasts.