Top Gear...Anyone?!?!

[3 Justin 3]

Just wondering if anyone else watches Top Gear. Maybe not because it is a British show, but come on... I for one am a huge fan, I watched it "live" if you will for the first time today because, ATM I am in London (Eurotrip) so I got to watch it as it was being aired, which was pretty cool.

Got me thinking, anyone else watch the show? Discuss?


P.S. I tried to get tickets to the taping of the show, but the waiting list is over 3 years long. :whaa:

[photon]

I've watched the show a few times, my favorites are when he tests the Ariel Atom and when they do that contest where they drive across the SE states and almost get beat up by a bunch of rednecks.

[Flash]

I used to watch it when I lived in England...haven't seen it since I've been back here though.

[henriksedin33]

probably my favorite show in TV, just waiting for the torrent to come up now...

[arsenal]

I watch it pretty much religiously. I got bbc canada just for top gear :bag:
The only problem is that bbc canada scheduling is pretty much , and you get episodes from one series, then all of a sudden, they air an old series episode.

[Dan02]

awesome, thanks for the heads up with it being back on.

[TimSJ]

great show.. I actually dressed up as the Stig one year for hallowen a few years ago not many people got it though

[Locke]

Clarkson makes that show. When I was in London I actually bought a book of his reviews for the Flight home and it was hilarious.

[Kipper is King]

Doesn't Joost have a Top Gear channel? I have not been on Joost in a while, though.

[arsenal]

Doesn't Joost have a Top Gear channel? I have not been on Joost in a while, though.
I think joosts is 5th gear. at least it was i tried it about a year ago.

[LGA]

Top Gear is fantastic, there's tons of humour and it's about cars. Not much else anyone really needs.

[@theCBE]

Ive been downloading it the last 3 seasons. I love it..

are they starting season 12 in the UK? or are they just starting to air season 11 in Canada?

I downloaded a couple episodes of the Australian version.. it was awful.

Edit... just saw that you said you were in London.. sweet that means its a new season.

[Russic]

My good friend is obsessed with it. He has it on all the time when i visit him. I think my favorite was when they tried to make car/boats.

"So you think that a Volkswagon Van, left it's own devices will float?"

"........ yes"

[driveway]

I want the big yellow shouty car:

gQC5mYx3cE4

[Barnes]

Woot, season 12 has started!

It's available in all the usual places.

[Nuje]

great show.. I actually dressed up as the Stig one year for hallowen a few years ago not many people got it though

I've been thinking of doing that, but same reason. Not many would get it. It'd be even better if you were with a hippie, a young short dude, and a really tall guy with curly hair, a suit jacket and jeans.

[3 Justin 3]

great show.. I actually dressed up as the Stig one year for hallowen a few years ago not many people got it though

That is what I plan on doing in a few years into College, act like the stig as well, say nothing, etc.

By the way, if you want torrents for the show use:

www.finalgear.com

THey have all the seasons, and they have Fifth Gear as well.

Also, if anyone doesn't already know they are making an American version, Adam Corolla is the main guy.

[Madman]

Jeremy is in a little heat following some comments during his lorry driving.

http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/story.html?id=a59b8ebb-08f4-4115-81fe-8007446a0e36

[Canada 02]

Jeremy is in a little heat following some comments during his lorry driving.

http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/story.html?id=a59b8ebb-08f4-4115-81fe-8007446a0e36 ".....the English Collective of Prostitutes (ECP)" :blink:

[burn_this_city]

Top Gear is probably one of the best shows on TV.. I'm always shocked by the crap he gets away with.. The best episode had to be the one where he's driving that tiny car around the BBC headquarters.

[TheyCallMeBruce]

My favorite episode is when they tried to turn their cars into boats. Hilarious!

[ok, ok,....I get it]

I liked when they drove through the southern state Missisppi I think, with pro gay slogans on their cars

[arsenal]

it was a challenge to write something on the other peoples cars that will most likely get them shot.
Hammond got the pro-gay slogans, I think May got the nascar sucks slogans and Clarkson got the Hillary for President stuff.
That was one of the best episodes ever.

I love the mini-movies that they do from time to time. That and episode long challenges like driving from london to finland.

[Dan02]

well episode 2 certainly was factual.

[Hack&Lube]

Hey guys, the last episode of the new series is airing next Sunday. I can't believe this series is over again. 6 episodes is not enough!

Last night was Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz. I don't know what's up with Top Gear but half the episodes this series are Hollywood celebrities instead of the usual random British celeb I've never heard of.

--- whoa wait, I just looked online and there seems to be an extra episode 7 tacked onto it. Yes!

[3 Justin 3]

Just saw the extra episode too! woohoo!

Can't wait until next week, 458 italia...ooooh baby!

And another cheap car challenge, hopefully this one will have interesting challenges as some of the last cheap car challenges have been boring.

[Nuje]

Top Gear is easily the best show on television anywhere. The fact that they can take a concept, like a show about cars, which 100% of everyone else makes a mess of (ever watch "motoring" or anything like that? Ugh), and outdraw a season finale of Big Brother in England (even though that was Hammond's return from the crash, but still), that is amazing.

The Volkswagen ad one just killed me. Soooo funny.

[Hack&Lube]

It's unfortunate that the BBC wide budget cuts (25-33%) have had such an visible impact on the show. It's a lot more pedestrian this series but it's still as entertaining as ever.

[3 Justin 3]

Still, that Bugatti clip was EPIC. I knew it would go faster than the Areo TT, but I didn't think they could get it up to 267.8MPH, that is insane.

I can't even imagine driving a car that fast, one little slip of the steering wheel and you're dead. With that said, James said it was "So stable!" when he was going 240+MPH so who knows. Lordy!

[QuadCityImages]

My favorite by far is Police Car Challenge. When I first watched that I could not stop laughing after Jeremy's attempt at stopping the Stig.

I have a checklist (from Wiki) of every episode of this version of the show, and I'm about halfway done.

[Bunk]

If only Tom Cruise had flipped over. That was quite a harrowing last corner.

[d_phaneuf]

ya this week's episode was fantastic, my favorite since the Japan race

[henriksedin33]

Great episode.

[cral12]

Check out the episode (some clips on Youtube I think) when they in Transylvania/Romania searching out one of the greatest highways in the world - the Transfagarasan! Awesome stuff & I just visited in May of this year.

[afc wimbledon]

Hey guys, the last episode of the new series is airing next Sunday. I can't believe this series is over again. 6 episodes is not enough!

Last night was Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz. I don't know what's up with Top Gear but half the episodes this series are Hollywood celebrities instead of the usual random British celeb I've never heard of.

--- whoa wait, I just looked online and there seems to be an extra episode 7 tacked onto it. Yes!

Top Gear is Jay Leno's favourite show, I think that has given it higher credibility with the Hollywood set.

[amorak]

Last week's Senna tribute had me in chills -

Senna for Mayor!

[Hanni]

Check out the episode (some clips on Youtube I think) when they in Transylvania/Romania searching out one of the greatest highways in the world - the Transfagarasan! Awesome stuff & I just visited in May of this year.

Also driving in the tunnels under the Romanian Parliament was cool.

My favorite is still the Vietnam special, driving from the South to North on motor bikes/mopeds.

[henriksedin33]

my favorite special has got to be the Botswana episode, with "Oliver".

[Hack&Lube]

Was there an ep on Sunday? I don't seem to see it anywhere.

[@theCBE]

Was there an ep on Sunday? I don't seem to see it anywhere.

Oh yes there was... Ferrari 458 Italia was reviewed. I want one.

The rest of the episode was an awkward Jeff Goldblum interview and vintage British Race cars.

[Barnes]

Where are people seeing this episode 7 listed?

[d_phaneuf]

last sunday was the last episode confirmed http://transmission.blogs.topgear.com/

it means the winter season will have 8 episodes, likely 7 episodes and 1 big race special

[Ironhorse]

Jackwagons. :mad:

The BBC had asked Britain's High Court for an injunction blocking the publication of an autobiography revealing The Stig's identity. But lawyers for publishers HarperCollins said Wednesday it was not granted.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/38952391/ns/world_news-europe/


So I guess the White Stig is about to meet his demise in an unfortunate accident whilst testing a Fiat Punto?

[Table 5]

So I guess the White Stig is about to meet his demise

Some say he already has.

http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/29/some-say-hes-ben-sacked-bbc-reportedly-fires-the-stig/

[Icon]

http://www.retrogames.it/immagini%5Cfoto%5Csnes%5Ctopgear.jpg

Love that game.

[Akai-Sesui]

Some say he already has.

http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/29/some-say-hes-ben-sacked-bbc-reportedly-fires-the-stig/

I see what you did there.

It'd be great if they brought back another legend to challenge the current one....heheh...
8Lkh0uWFg9c

[Ironhorse]

BBC loses their court battle:

Top Gear presenter James May, who was a studio guest on BBC London when High Court's decision was announced, made light of the situation. He said: "Obviously I'm now going to have to take some legal action of my own, because I have been the Stig for the past seven years, and I don't know who this bloke is, who's mincing around in the High Court pretending it's him."
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-11151777

[Nuje]

Lol at steering the frisbee.

[3 Justin 3]

Just a heads up, there will only be 1 series for the 2010 year. They won't be coming back until January or even February.

How ever there will be 2 specials (like Bolivia/Africa/America), in 2011, which IMO makes up for the long gap between series'.

[d_phaneuf]

I wonder how they will do it, usually its 14 episodes a year (either 6 at summer and 8 in winter or in reverse)

I can't expect that they do 22 next year, so maybe 8 and 8 with 2 big specials instead of 1

I wouldn't mind that at all

[3 Justin 3]

I think a Russian special would be pretty cool, the three of them buying 3 crap Russian cars and traveling from east Russia to west Russia.

I know they'd never do it, but a Canadian special would be cool too, but I think it'd be a lot like the American one, minus the hillbillies.

[driveway]

I just watched the episode where James May drove this beast: http://www.digitalbattle.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/500x_bugatti_veyron_super_sport.jpg

damn. I want.

[Barnes]

I think a Russian special would be pretty cool, the three of them buying 3 crap Russian cars and traveling from east Russia to west Russia.

I know they'd never do it, but a Canadian special would be cool too, but I think it'd be a lot like the American one, minus the hillbillies.

Russia would be too much. Western Russia is nearly impossible to travel. Kazakistan or Mongolia would be cool.

[Hanni]

Top Gear marathon today on BBC.

[d_phaneuf]

segment on 60 minutes tonight on Top Gear

[Hanni]

Anyone hear when the next series is starting?

[GreatWhiteEbola]

Early next year, according to Final Gear.

http://www.finalgear.com/

Less then a month for Top Gear America.

[MrMastodonFarm]

60 mintues is doing a feature on Top Gear tonight, watching right now.

[Hack&Lube]

60 mins? Seriously? Are they covering the British show or some Top Gear America or something? What are they talking about.

[GreatWhiteEbola]

60 mins? Seriously? Are they covering the British show or some Top Gear America or something? What are they talking about.


You can watch it here.

http://www.finalgear.com/

or here

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=6987703n&tag=topnews

60 Minutes Overtime (http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504803_162-20020472-10391709.html?tag=contentBody;listingLeadStories)

[3 Justin 3]

I am so excited to watch the 60 Minutes segment.

[QuadCityImages]

That's actually quite a good 15 minute summary of what Top Gear is all about.

[3 Justin 3]

I was sad, I knew all this already. :( I guess it's because I have seen all 15 series' about 6 times completely plus more for some episodes.

[Akai-Sesui]

http://www.topgear.com/uk/car-news/stig-farm-exclusive-2010-11-5

Stig Farm

[xshenanigansx]

I Love Top Gear!!! Especially those challenge episodes where they go on those pointless roadtrips. i found a sweet site where you can DL every episode for free as well.

I'd love seeing Top Gear live for sure.

[Meelapo]

I Love Top Gear!!! Especially those challenge episodes where they go on those pointless roadtrips. i found a sweet site where you can DL every episode for free as well.

I'd love seeing Top Gear live for sure.

Is the site called the Internet? I kid, I kid...I'm pretty sure I know the site your talking about. If we are talking about the same site then they just have links to every episode torrent. If you check out their forums you'll see that every once in a while the producers of Top Gear post there.

[Akai-Sesui]

Yep; Andy gets lots of ideas from that other place...alot of volunteers that are willing to 'donate' their vehicles for use on the show.

[3 Justin 3]

As a heads up, James May's new series just started. It is called "Man Lab".

He is my favorite presenter so I really like the show. His show about Toys was good too.

[Bunk]

That was a good 60 minutes piece on the show? When's the next series start?

[d_phaneuf]

That was a good 60 minutes piece on the show? When's the next series start?

early next year but there is a christmas special (maybe a 2 parter) in december

[3 Justin 3]

For those interested there will be a Top Gear America. It will be on the History channel.

Not sure when it starts, but the first episode(s) have been filmed (with audience) already.

I saw the preview and thought it was decent.

[MrMastodonFarm]

For those interested there will be a Top Gear America. It will be on the History channel.

Not sure when it starts, but the first episode(s) have been filmed (with audience) already.

I saw the preview and thought it was decent.

Who are the hosts? I'm not much of a car guy, at all, but I really enjoy Top Gear because of the three hosts.

[GreatWhiteEbola]

Who are the hosts? I'm not much of a car guy, at all, but I really enjoy Top Gear because of the three hosts.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Top_Gear_(U.S._TV_series)

The show's presenters are professional racing driver Tanner Foust (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanner_Foust), actor and comedian Adam Ferrara (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adam_Ferrara), and Rutledge Wood (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rutledge_Wood), an automotive and racing analyst. As with the original British version, the show will have its own version of The Stig (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Stig), an anonymous racing driver, and a celebrity guest will be featured each week.

[3 Justin 3]

Yea!!!!

Top Gear returns January 23rd with a 6 episode series.

However, there will be AT LEAST 1 special in December and possibly 2.

w00t w00t

PARTY TIME!!

Edit: Oh and Top Gear America will start next weekend (Nov. 21) on History Channel.

From what I have seen/heard about Top Gear America is that they'll do it like current Top Gear is run, with little car reviews but a ton of "cocking about" kind of stuff (challenges, races, etc.).

I am looking forward to the epic races (if they do any). The one challenge I saw looked pretty cool.

[shermanator]

My favorite episode is when they have a challenge to build motorhomes out of regular cars. Clarkson builds a 3 story car and can't go over 30 mph due to wind resistance.

[Young-Sneezy]

tanner foust is a complete nymrod.

[MrMastodonFarm]

My favorite episode is when they have a challenge to build motorhomes out of regular cars. Clarkson builds a 3 story car and can't go over 30 mph due to wind resistance.

I really do enjoy Top Gear, and usually they do a good job of holding the line between real and fake, but those guys didn't build those cars, they were built for them.

Though I'll admit, if the show was 100% it wouldn't be anywhere near as entertaining.

[3 Justin 3]

I really do enjoy Top Gear, and usually they do a good job of holding the line between real and fake, but those guys didn't build those cars, they were built for them.

Though I'll admit, if the show was 100% it wouldn't be anywhere near as entertaining.

I'm not sure he meant "picked up a hammer and got to work", more than he designed something outrageous.

The design is definitely theirs and to me that's what matters.

[MrMastodonFarm]

The design is definitely theirs and to me that's what matters.

Think so?

[Madman]

Top Gear America will start next weekend (Nov. 21) on History Channel.

On Telus Optik, there is no listing on the 21st for Top Gear.

Does anyone with another provider show it?

[d_phaneuf]

The design is definitely theirs

I think James probly does some of the building as well, I doubt Jeremy or Richard do

They are more about the driving experience with cars than the mechanics of them

[Hack&Lube]

I just watched Top Gear USA.

Oh man, I was cringing at how horrible it was. The beauty of the original Top Gear is the chemistry of the hosts, not how flashy all the cars and HD camera work is. The hosts are 3 ordinary guys but they all quite different in terms of personalities, appearance, eccentricities, and they all are always teasing and making fun of each other.

This show is just plain generic and bland. The worst hosts I can imagine are hosting the show. They are stiff, not a single one of them has any personality, and they are all cookie-cutter cut-outs of the same young guy pretty much. There is no differentiation and it's just awful. They are all harmless and opinionless and full of fake smiles and just a bunch of young dudes doing the generic TV host thing.

This show needs it's controversial, highly opinionated Clarkson-esque journalist/comedian that still commands respect but is also incredibly funny and baffoonish with the proper car pedigree (maybe a guy like Jay Leno). Then you need the elder-stateman (like James May's character) and then you have the youngish guy with nice teeth. Not 3 youngish guys with nice teeth like this show has.

http://jalopnik.com/5694780/first-drive-top-gear-usa

This article seem to indicate their wooden chemistry and the fun improves though in eps 2 and 3 so hopefully it will.

[Ironhorse]

I looked for this in Shaw's lineup (including History channel), and couldn't find it anywhere...

[afc wimbledon]

Top Gears christmas special this year will be a trip to Bethlehem via Iraq and Jordan.

[Hack&Lube]

I looked for this in Shaw's lineup (including History channel), and couldn't find it anywhere...

That's because we get History Channel Canada, the real History Channel's mildly ######ed cousin.

[3 Justin 3]

Top Gears christmas special this year will be a trip to Bethlehem via Iraq and Jordan.

Then how can there be a new series? They'd surely be dead after a trip like that with Clarkson aboard.

[Hanni]

Then how can there be a new series? They'd surely be dead after a trip like that with Clarkson aboard.

Could you imagine if they wrote on each other's cars like they did in the southern U.S. road trip, they would all be dead for sure.

[3 Justin 3]

I just watched Top Gear USA.

Oh man, I was cringing at how horrible it was. The beauty of the original Top Gear is the chemistry of the hosts, not how flashy all the cars and HD camera work is. The hosts are 3 ordinary guys but they all quite different in terms of personalities, appearance, eccentricities, and they all are always teasing and making fun of each other.

This show is just plain generic and bland. The worst hosts I can imagine are hosting the show. They are stiff, not a single one of them has any personality, and they are all cookie-cutter cut-outs of the same young guy pretty much. There is no differentiation and it's just awful. They are all harmless and opinionless and full of fake smiles and just a bunch of young dudes doing the generic TV host thing.

This show needs it's controversial, highly opinionated Clarkson-esque journalist/comedian that still commands respect but is also incredibly funny and baffoonish with the proper car pedigree (maybe a guy like Jay Leno). Then you need the elder-stateman (like James May's character) and then you have the youngish guy with nice teeth. Not 3 youngish guys with nice teeth like this show has.

http://jalopnik.com/5694780/first-drive-top-gear-usa

This article seem to indicate their wooden chemistry and the fun improves though in eps 2 and 3 so hopefully it will.

To be fair, the first series of UK Top Gear was horrible and no one watched it. Even the next few series weren't as that good.

[3 Justin 3]

After watching the first episode I'd say it was better than I expected. The camera work is as good as ever and the segments were fun.

The chemistry between the host was pretty bad, I'll agree, almost atrocious. But if it improves I think it'll be a decent show.

I am disappointed they have "Big star, small car" still, which is just a waste of time IMO especially considering the ep's are only 42 minutes long.

If Tanner Faust didn't act like a tool, I think he'd make a good "primary host". Rather than acting fake, he needs to act like an ass, like Jeremy.

We'll see how it ends up after the first 10 episodes.

If Top Gear Australia can get 3 seasons, I don't see why Top Gear US can't.

I hope things turn out good for this show as 2 Top Gears is better than 1 Top Gear, it all depends on if the hosts actually hang out together off camera.

[Table 5]

The camera work is as good as ever.

Really? Because I thought moments like the in-car shots of Faust in the Viper with the extreme camera shake were pretty amateur looking. They couldn't even get a proper stabilizer?

The lack of music also made it seem like a bit of a dud (although I assume that's to the US's crazy expensive licensing laws).

Overall, they seem like nice guys....just not very interesting to watch and listen to. Adam Farrera seemed to be the one who was most comfortable with himself and had some good moments....but for the most part all 3 guys seemed to try REALLY hard, and it came across as desperate. It felt like riding a horse....a horse that didn't want to be ridden.

[chid]

These guys on Top Gear USA are ridiculous, I couldn't even watch it. Firstly, the UK version - the guys have driven TONS of cars, they have some context. These doofus' were just awkward to watch, the contrived dialogue between them, the intro to their stig, and what the heck was with them cringing during that drag race!?

[MrMastodonFarm]

This show needs it's controversial, highly opinionated Clarkson-esque journalist/comedian that still commands respect but is also incredibly funny and baffoonish with the proper car pedigree (maybe a guy like Jay Leno)..
Controversial, highly opinionated, journalist? None of those things describe Jay Leno.

Besides that I do agree, the hosts make Top Gear, and unless the American version finds hosts people like and can relate to, it will fail.

[d_phaneuf]

ya I didn't like it at all

it was basically 3 random guys doing a show, with Jeremy, Richard, and James you can tell they are legitimately friends and it's just entertaining to watch them interact. The fact that it's a show about cars just adds to that

[TylerSVT]

Top gear wouldnt be Top gear without Jeremy Clarkson. Seriously he makes the show. Everyone else can be replaced except him IMO.

[Barnes]

Controversial, highly opinionated, journalist? None of those things describe Jay Leno.

Besides that I do agree, the hosts make Top Gear, and unless the American version finds hosts people like and can relate to, it will fail.

Incredibly funny comedian should not be used to describe him either unless you are from the eighties.

[MrMastodonFarm]

Top gear wouldnt be Top gear without Jeremy Clarkson. Seriously he makes the show. Everyone else can be replaced except him IMO.
While Clarkson is obviously important to the success of the show, he couldn't be who he is without the give and take he has with Hammond and May. They three hosts really do make a fantastic team, I think if you try to replace May or Hammond it wouldn't work.

[d_phaneuf]

ya I think Jeremy is more important than the rest, but to even replace James or Richard with someone else would completely change they dynamic they have and I don't know if it would work

some stuff would, but I think the trips and challenges would be a lot different

[arsenal]

They need to get back to being 3 mates who love cars and want to share that love through the tv show. Like May stated in the 60 minute segment, it recently has felt as though they are being written to play the characters whom they already are.

Hopefully the special and the new series will be better. Series 15 started to feel like proper top gear again.

All the presenters are just as important as Clarkson. If you watch some of the videos that Clarkson does outside of Top Gear, it doesn't have the feel.

[Nuje]

They need to get back to being 3 mates who love cars and want to share that love through the tv show. Like May stated in the 60 minute segment, it recently has felt as though they are being written to play the characters whom they already are.

Hopefully the special and the new series will be better. Series 15 started to feel like proper top gear again.

All the presenters are just as important as Clarkson. If you watch some of the videos that Clarkson does outside of Top Gear, it doesn't have the feel.
Or just watch series one, and see that it isn't the same with Jason Dawe. Even though the show truly hit gold with series 4 imo, the addition of James May made it instantly much better...I mean even his introduction "and since this is a new series, we've decided to try a new presenter. His name is James May, and by evidence of what you're about to see, he's a blithering idiot!" then May intros the segment and says "of course you'd have to be an idiot to spend that money on a used Bentley...here's mine"

[3 Justin 3]

Ferrara is ok as a presenter, Faust is wooden as all hell but at least he has car knowledge. I don't know who the hell this Rutledge character is though.

December can't come soon enough, wouldn't be Christmas without Top Gear.

I hope I get a pork sword for Christmas!

[TylerSVT]

I've watched Tanner Fausts show on OLN or whatever... i dont know why anyone would pick him to be a host. One dimensional personality FTL.

[QuadCityImages]

I watched some of it last night (until I fell asleep, which isn't a good sign...) and came away feeling like if I'd never seen the original I might think it was alright. They never even mentioned that there is an original though.

[arsenal]

Watched it last night. Faust is not a tv presenter, he is a racing driver. Sure he has car knowledge, but he doesn't seem to have a personality, at least on camera.

Adam Farrera will probably be decent, once he gets comfortable. In the lambo drag segment he was actually a little bit funny.

Rutledge Wood (is he from Speed as a roving auto racing analyst) I don't know. He could go either way I suppose.

None of them are good in front of the studio audience, and there is too much 'splaining going on. Just do the show, people will figure out what is going we are not idiots.
I don't see it ever rivalling the original TG, but if they take formula and apply properly and do their own thing and not try to be a carbon copy of TG UK, it could be alright.

I will probably keep watching it though. Hopefully the next couple episodes are better. At least the production quality is decent. The music needs a bit of work.

[Barnes]

I liked it. Good first show and it seems it will get a lot better once the hosts get broken in. It was kinda nice to see a host with race experience beat the piss out of the Viper.

[Madman]

That Cobra sequence was phenomenal - I could watch a weekly program on how badass the AH1 Cobra is and never get tired of it.

I too enjoyed the first episode and actually thought Rutlidge was the best of the 3. Tanner fits in better with these 2 as opposed to Paul Tracy and Ferrara will really need to settle in as he's way too stiff...although, it was episode 1.

[Dan02]

Well episode 2 is bad enough I won't be continuing. Faust is the only one worth keeping on show, someone commmented he has a one dimensional personality, well that puts him 1 ahead of the other 2. Rutlidge Wood's segment tonight was so bad I turned it off, seen more personality from a fencepost.

Which leads to the biggest problem for a show about driving cars. Neither Wood or Ferrara can drive.(not for the level one would expect for the show anyways)

[TopChed]

Based on that one show they have on speed network (I think) called Battle of the Supercars, with Paul Tracy and Tanner Foust, I'd say give Tracy a host spot before Foust. He's been a lot more likable on the 2 shows I've seen from that series.

[3 Justin 3]

Well episode 2 is bad enough I won't be continuing. Faust is the only one worth keeping on show, someone commmented he has a one dimensional personality, well that puts him 1 ahead of the other 2. Rutlidge Wood's segment tonight was so bad I turned it off, seen more personality from a fencepost.

Which leads to the biggest problem for a show about driving cars. Neither Wood or Ferrara can drive.(not for the level one would expect for the show anyways)

I know what you mean about your last statement. For Top Gear, Jeremy and James were car journalists before Top Gear, Jeremy Clarkson was on old Top Gear and doing car review videos for decades.

Richard was in broadcasting as well as a radio personality, even though he wasn't a car journalist, being in broadcasting made him a good host.

The hosts for Top Gear America have no personality, are wooden and boring. I like Tanner the most because he is actually a driver, he just doesn't have the personality for a tv show. He'll have to grow on me, Adam Ferrara has more character, but no car knowledge. Rutledge is America's "Jason".

I haven't seen episode 2 yet, but I'll have to wait until the end of the series (it is 10 episodes) to see how the hosts grow on me. Then I'll await whether there is a host change for season 2 (if there is one).

[3 Justin 3]

For those interested, the new Top Gear Australia special is pretty good. Unfortunately the series is short lived and series 3 will be the last.

I liked it but the ratings were terrible so it was canceled already.

[3 Justin 3]

Excellent news!

Two Top Gear specials will air in December, one on the 21st and other on the 26th.

:D

If I am correct the two specials are both epic journeys, one in the Israel area, the other in Eastern USA

[d_phaneuf]

yep just read this earlier at the site

You may have read some scant details about our festive special in the papers this week. We can confirm their veracity. This Boxing Day Jeremy, Richard and James will be attempting their toughest task yet: passing themselves off as ‘three wise men’ while recreating that famous journey following a star to Bethlehem.
SPOILER ALERT: Those who want to keep it a surprise, stop reading here.
If you’re undertaking a journey of 1,200 perilous miles across countries and regions like Kurdistan, Turkey, Syria, Jordan and Israel, taking in inhospitable stretches of obscure mountain and desert, one’s choice of vehicle is paramount. A 4×4, perhaps. Something rugged. Dependable. Lots of easy-to-find parts lying about in out-of-the-way garages would be handy. Our long-feted Toyota Hilux, perhaps?
No. Our presenters chose a fleet of second-hand convertibles: a Mazda MX5, BMW Z3 and Fiat Barchetta.

[d_phaneuf]

jcqftZPgkEU

[BlackArcher101]

I wonder what their life insurance policy costs.

[PIMking]

For those interested, the new Top Gear Australia special is pretty good. Unfortunately the series is short lived and series 3 will be the last.

I liked it but the ratings were terrible so it was canceled already.

I wish the history channel would get the English guys. I hate the American Top gear with a passion.

[chid]

Anyone see that Apocalypse special? I thought it was pretty funny.

[3 Justin 3]

Anyone see that Apocalypse special? I thought it was pretty funny.

No but I'll watch it now!

[Hanni]

Anyone see that Apocalypse special? I thought it was pretty funny.

I hadn't even heard about it, thanks.

[chid]

Here's a trailer for those who are interested:

1RDx7QbNtIk

[arsenal]

Clarkson has a new video out called "The Italian Job", it's pretty good, definitely give it a watch.

I watched TG America S01E02 -- Ugh.. pretty much sums it up. The hick ruins the V12 Vantage, Ferrara was brutal. Foust wasn't any better, but he was better than the other 2. The funniest part of the whole show was the seeing eye dog take a piss on the presenters platform. And that happened with about 5 seconds left.

Woo E03 should air tonight, here's to hoping that it's bearable.

[ZedMan]

Anyone see that Apocalypse special? I thought it was pretty funny.

Watching that made it only more clear how far from UK Top Gear US Top Gear is. It's really not even close.

[arsenal]

Episode 3 of TG US was the best one by far. You are able to watch it on the history channel website. Unfortunately, you cannot skip past their commercials.

I wont give any spoilers as to what happens, but it is a cheap car challenge involving moonshine.

I actually laughed through some of this episode.
New in this episode is a news segment. It wasn't terrible, but it wasn't fantastic either. As far as I am concerned.. they can get rid of Big Star, Small Car. I am not sure if it's the guests or Adam that are killing this segment, but it's brutally painful.

[TopChed]

I actually enjoy the US version. The main thing is to stop comparing it to the original series. You'll never enjoy it as much, but as a standalone car show, it's pretty good. Not sure if I'll ever like Rutledge Wood, but I'll keep watching the US one.

[3 Justin 3]

Who else is nursing a semi just thinking about the two specials coming up in a couple weeks?

[MrMastodonFarm]

Anyone see that Apocalypse special? I thought it was pretty funny.

No Clarkson? Balls.

[Hanni]

No Clarkson? Balls.

Ya I watched it on the weekend and wasn't that impressed. Just not the same without him.

[Hack&Lube]

I wanted Leno as a Top Gear USA host for a long time now because of his car pedigree and the fact that he still can be funny and he is incredibly passionate about cars, not because of the late night drama crap with Coco. Leno is a lifeless zombie ####### on the Tonight Show but he's great on Jay Leno's Garage.

[DownInFlames]

So, Adam Carolla is slated to do his own car show. I like him, unlike the Top Gear USA hosts, so I will definitely tune in if it gets greenlit.

http://jalopnik.com/5713073/adam-carollas-best-damn-car-show-to-take-on-top-gear-usa

[HotHotHeat]

When is the special airing?

[3 Justin 3]

When is the special airing?

Dec. 21, then Dec. 26.

First is in USA with Porsche, Ferrari and Mercedez SLS. Second special is in the Middle East. I think it is this way anyway.

[Madman]

I enjoyed the Raptor portion of Episode 4 - but pretty much everything else was a complete disaster. (WTF was with the gay paintball segment!?!)

Adam Ferrara is a total tool and his complete lack of car knowledge and non-existent driving skills make him the biggest loser on the show. He actually makes Rutledge look competent.

Hey Adam, take this quarter, go downtown, and have a rat gnaw that thing off your face.

[TylerSVT]

No Clarkson? Balls.

Ditto, i ended up skipping a lot of the sketched parts like when they drive around in the cars with painted windows... like at least when you script a show make it believeable...

I maintain that Clarkson is the glue that holds top gear together, without him the show is mediocre.

[Hack&Lube]

When Clarkson left the original original Top Gear it suffered as well under Tiff Needle but it was still watchable.

Clarkson makes and breaks the show. Watch Clarkson's non Top Gear car shows (there are plenty made, especially between 1999-2002) and it feels just like or better than Top Gear.

You might as well call Top Gear the Jeremy Clarkson hour but over the years, May and Hammond have come into their own too and are great hosts on their individual programs as well.

None of these guys on Top Gear USA should even be on television. Top Gear USA might as well be Fifth Gear USA. Top Gear USA is just a giant download and fast forward to watch about 5 minutes/45 minutes for me.

It's a shame really. Imagine what would happen if they trimmed the show's budget by ALOT and used the extra money to hire some real American entertainment or car industry personas. Imagine the show hosted by an A-list comedian or talk show host and it would be much better. Hell the British show now operates on a shoestring budget and it's still just as good.

[3 Justin 3]

When Clarkson left the original original Top Gear it suffered as well under Tiff Needle but it was still watchable.

Clarkson makes and breaks the show. Watch Clarkson's non Top Gear car shows (there are plenty made, especially between 1999-2002) and it feels just like or better than Top Gear.

You might as well call Top Gear the Jeremy Clarkson hour but over the years, May and Hammond have come into their own too and are great hosts on their individual programs as well.

None of these guys on Top Gear USA should even be on television. Top Gear USA might as well be Fifth Gear USA. Top Gear USA is just a giant download and fast forward to watch about 5 minutes/45 minutes for me.

It's a shame really. Imagine what would happen if they trimmed the show's budget by ALOT and used the extra money to hire some real American entertainment or car industry personas. Imagine the show hosted by an A-list comedian or talk show host and it would be much better. Hell the British show now operates on a shoestring budget and it's still just as good.

I disagree on one point. Clarkson's videos are rather bland. I enjoy them because they are just fast cars which he reviews, but for an hour and 20 minutes it gets boring. Top Gear is all three, if any of them left it wouldn't be the same, be it James, Richards or Jeremy.

[arsenal]

First special was released today. No spoilers, but it's the east coast US special.

[Hanni]

Found it, can't wait to watch.

[Hack&Lube]

Tiff Needle fills in for the Stig?

http://jalopnik.com/5715258/the-stig-is-tiff-needell

[3 Justin 3]

I thought the first episode was quite good, really enjoyed the America segment.

Can't bloody wait until Sunday for the Middle East special.

[TylerSVT]

It is seriously the best show on TV bar none.

[Hanni]

The only problem I had with the American special was that it seem too rushed. I wish the whole episode was the special and that they hadn't jammed the rest of the show in as well. Seemed like the road trip didn't really have a good conclusion like other specials have in the past.

[Barnes]

This seemed like a regular episode without a really fast car on the track segment. I thought it was supposed to be a special. Not complaining, I just must have missed something.

A little sick of Hammond picking the latest 911. I can't tell the difference between it and one from 15 years ago.

[d_phaneuf]

liked it a lot

really looking forward to next week

[arsenal]

Top Gear UK S15E07: Great episode! I am so glad to have the boys back. I can't wait for sunday's episode. I don't think they did the stig segment because he was sacked, but I think it is slated to return for S16. But I do agree, it did seem a tad rushed.

Top Gear US S01E05: This episode wasn't terrible. A few really good moments, and I actually watched the "Big Star Small Car". Foust even made a few funnies! It was the best episode they have made so far, and the cast is just beginning to get some chemistry in the unscripted bits. I still hate the intro though, no need to keep telling people that it isn't some american idol thing. All in all it was pretty good.

[3 Justin 3]

I gave up on Top Gear USA, I just can't take it anymore. I'll download the 45 minute program and watch maybe 5 minutes of it, just skipping through it. Just can't take any of them doing a car review, outside of Foust (as he actually has driven cars).

[Madman]

I just can't get over the production quality - simply amazing. The cinematic shots of New York were better than any movie scenes using similar shots.

I really enjoyed the special - that 458 is a friggin gorgeous car.

I enjoyed EP5 the most so far of TGUSA, but they need to loosen up on set and not be so teleprompter-ish.

[GreatWhiteEbola]

Fiero, FTW!

They still have a stigma of being a fire bomb. Too bad they discontinued that car in 1988, they were just starting to get it right.

TGUK, epic as ever!

[Madman]

James May hospitalized while filming the Syria Special.

James May fell and hit his head on a rock while trying to help tow Jeremy Clarkson's vehicle. May was standing on the tow line when it went taught, giving him a quick flip in the air before coming back down to Earth head-first. The crew was a few hundred miles from the closest thing resembling civilization, but May was taken to the nearest hospital and treated for his injuries.

http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/23/james-may-hospitalized-shooting-top-gear-syria-special/

[LGA]

This seemed like a regular episode without a really fast car on the track segment. I thought it was supposed to be a special. Not complaining, I just must have missed something.

A little sick of Hammond picking the latest 911. I can't tell the difference between it and one from 15 years ago.

I hate Porsche's so I'm sick of him picking the 911's as well. Plus, it just looks out of place compared to the other two cars.

[3 Justin 3]

It sort of does get annoying Hammand picking the newest 911 every time. I know there his favorite supercar (how that is you're favorite I'll never know), but mix it up. All the videos are the same. James and Jeremy bring a cool car and then the Hamster brings a boring 911.

Bring a Lambo Balboni, Audi R8 V10, Aston V10 Vantage or DBS.

Any of those I'd take over a GT3 RS.

[3 Justin 3]

Ok, so I have officially found the best ending to any television program/movie/event/anything.

The Middle East special was good, until the end, then it became EPIC.

[Hack&Lube]

I gave up on Top Gear USA, I just can't take it anymore. I'll download the 45 minute program and watch maybe 5 minutes of it, just skipping through it. Just can't take any of them doing a car review, outside of Foust (as he actually has driven cars).

I am the same. I watch 5 minutes of it and skip the rest of the program because these guys are so stiff and their "chemistry" is so obviously a canned script they memorized in their trailer 5 minutes before getting on set replete with canned laughter that I can't take anymore either.

Top Gear USA is simply awful and it doesn't have to be. The problem is the stupid hosts. Who's idea was it to get these 3 numbskulls? The rest of the show is of the same production quality as UK Top Gear and the cinematography is top notch. Maybe they should trim the budget and get a decent cast instead of 3 idiots who should be on the Home and Garden Network.

[QuadCityImages]

I kind of liked the American Christmas road trip better, but that might just be because I recognized locations and stuff (especially in NYC) whereas I have never been to the Middle East. What I definitely liked better about last night's show was the cheap cars. Their road trips are much better with finicky junk cars rather than their choice of supercars.

[Jagger]

Anyone know when the UK Middle East Special will be aired again? (BBC Canada?)
Not much of a TV watcher but will always watch Top Gear.

[d_phaneuf]

Ok, so I have officially found the best ending to any television program/movie/event/anything.

The Middle East special was good, until the end, then it became EPIC.


Yep it was at like a 9/10 the whole way through, and the ending moved it to about a 14

[LGA]

James May hospitalized while filming the Syria Special.



http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/23/james-may-hospitalized-shooting-top-gear-syria-special/

The fall was pretty nasty in the Middle-East special.

[Hack&Lube]

Anyone know when the UK Middle East Special will be aired again? (BBC Canada?)
Not much of a TV watcher but will always watch Top Gear.

Last time I saw Top Gear on BBC Canada last month they were still airing 2004 episodes from the regular series. I don't think they show new episodes or specials.

[QuadCityImages]

BBC America is also several seasons behind. Staying up to date with current episodes requires... other methods.

[Bunk]

The two specials were quite enjoyable. Look forward to the new series!

[d_phaneuf]

BBC America is also several seasons behind. Staying up to date with current episodes requires... other methods.

yep, and whenever I have seen it on BBC America or BBC Canada they cut out 15-20 minutes (and usually always the news which I find hilarious)

not worth watching it that way at all

[3 Justin 3]

The actual season starts on January 23 by the way.

Although I am not sure what it contains because in the teaser they showed on Dec. 21 a lot of that stuff I have already seen, like a lot of that came from the Top Gear Australia Ashes special (which was fairly good). Not sure how long it is either.

[driveway]

Seasons 11 and 12 are now on Netflix - hell yes.

[HotHotHeat]

Torrents for series 16 episode 1, or however they're counting it, should be up within hours!

[3 Justin 3]

Episode was pretty good, 3 car reviews in 1 episode!! what an episode!

[3 Justin 3]

Episode 2 is out. If anyone watched the Australian Ashes challenge, it is more-or-less just that, also has a segment on the Ferrari's GTO's.

[HotHotHeat]

I love this shows ability to keep the ideas fresh. Who would have thought a mile long race between a Porche and a Beetle could be so close!?

[Hanni]

People need to lighten up.


The BBC has apologised for remarks made on the television programme, Top Gear, that caused outrage in Mexico.
Top Gear presenters characterised Mexicans as lazy and feckless.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-12361790

[3 Justin 3]

Top Gear is back in 3 and a bit days.

AWWW YEAAA!!!

[QuadCityImages]

A couple trailers, which obviously could be considered spoilers for the season:

wJnpCp841_0
LUvgOheLHqI

[GreatWhiteEbola]

Today is the day, season 17! I am just about to watch it...




Richard is in South Africa to test a bigger, even more rugged alternative to the famous Hummer — the Marauder
Jeremy tests the new BMW 1M
James meets up with Olympic Skelton Gold Medal Winner, Amy Williams, and races her in the new Mini Rally Car with WRC champion Kris Meeke
Jeremy celebrates the 50th Birthday of the Jaguar E-type by driving a modernized version, the Eagle Speedster (http://www.jaguarspeedster.com/)
SIARPC: Alice Cooper

[Bunk]

Clarkson is right the E Type is one of the great cars of all time. That updated version is incredible too.

[LGA]

I want one of those marauders, that thing would be hilarious to drive around Calgary.

Haha, Clarkson awkwardly hitting on Amy Williams = awesome.

[d_phaneuf]

really liked it

the E type is gorgeous, and the stuff with the Marauder and Clarkson/Amy Williams was hilarious

[Akai-Sesui]

Anyone catch 17X03?
Vettel is a seriously funny kid, and does he ever fly quick around that test track.

[3 Justin 3]

Usually I don't watch the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car segment, but I've watched all 3 so far this series, and next week is Rowen Atkinson. In the past few years they actually have had some people I know and thus I watch them. I remember in the old series (1-9 really) when they had only British celebs.

This series has been pretty good so far.

[DownInFlames]

I look forward to Rowan Atkinson's lap. He crashed a Mclaren F1 so I can only imagine what he'll do in the Kia.

Did anyone catch Adam Carolla's Car Show last night on Speed? I recorded it so I'll watch it tonight.

[chalms04]

Going back thru Netflix to watch the Top 10 epis as picked by Jalopnik:

http://jalopnik.com/5819342/the-ten-best-top-gear-episodes/gallery/

[3 Justin 3]

Going back thru Netflix to watch the Top 10 epis as picked by Jalopnik:

http://jalopnik.com/5819342/the-ten-best-top-gear-episodes/gallery/

That list isn't very good.

The best episode is the African special.

[d_phaneuf]

ya I dono how they missed that, definitely in the top 3 for me, Oliver itself is worth of top 5

don't think the rest of the list is great either

the tom cruise episode was one of the best star in a reasonably priced car segments (which can at times be painful to watch) but outside of that I don't think it was a memorable episode

[QuadCityImages]

I also dislike that list, and I've seen every single Top Gear episode (I even had a checklist) The one where they make their own police cars, the South America special, the limo challenge... arguments can definitely be made for any of those.

[Burninator]

I used to watch Top Gear on BBC Canada a couple years ago, but more recently I watched every episode from the very beginning up to the latest. However I remember something from watching it on BBC Canada that I never saw from watching from the beginning. They raced 3 different SUV's up a mountain. I'm pretty sure one was a Land Rover. Anyone remember this? Did I miss an episode or something? I don't like the idea that there is Top Gear content out there that I haven't watched.

[GreatWhiteEbola]

I used to watch Top Gear on BBC Canada a couple years ago, but more recently I watched every episode from the very beginning up to the latest. However I remember something from watching it on BBC Canada that I never saw from watching from the beginning. They raced 3 different SUV's up a mountain. I'm pretty sure one was a Land Rover. Anyone remember this? Did I miss an episode or something? I don't like the idea that there is Top Gear content out there that I haven't watched.

This was from a solo work by Clarkson.
TrMXVjHTKWo

[3 Justin 3]

This was from a solo work by Clarkson.
TrMXVjHTKWo

I know they will never do it, but I'd like to them to test a Jeep against a Range Rover.

Escalade's aren't made for off-roading, let alone going up a mountain.

[d_phaneuf]

I think this series as a whole so far has been great, I didn't think the last one was terrible but so far this one has been a lot better

[Barnes]

I know they will never do it, but I'd like to them to test a Jeep against a Range Rover.

Escalade's aren't made for off-roading, let alone going up a mountain.

They did a Grand Cherokee vs X5 vs Range Rover vs the first Land Rover

The X5 didn't make it off the grass around the parking lot.

[Akai-Sesui]

For those of you that watched the Vettel episode, you'll appreciate it more...but pretty awesome regardless.

FHE118e55SA

[3 Justin 3]

I got to say after a very mediocre episode (ep. 5), the last one of the series was fantastic.

The Aventador review was great, the electric car segment was great and the rally segment was great.

I want to try out rally driving, but I have no idea where I would start. I think it would be an awesome experience to take part in some amateur rally racing.

[afc wimbledon]

I know they will never do it, but I'd like to them to test a Jeep against a Range Rover.

Escalade's aren't made for off-roading, let alone going up a mountain.

Neither are Range Rovers truth be told, Jeep V Land Rover Defender would be closer

[Regulator75]

Top Gear caught fibbing and bending the rules when it comes to electric cars (also being sued by Tesla for lying about Roadster's performance).

Nissan has a monitoring device in the car which transmits information on the state of the battery. This shows that, while the company delivered the car to Top Gear fully charged, the programme-makers ran the battery down before Clarkson and May set off, until only 40% of the charge was left. Moreover, they must have known this, as the electronic display tells the driver how many miles' worth of electricity they have, and the sat-nav tells them if they don't have enough charge to reach their destination.

In this case it told them – before they set out on their 60-mile journey – that they had 30 miles' worth of electricity. But, as Ben Webster of the Times reported earlier this week (http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/article3112181.ece), "at no point were viewers told that the battery had been more than half empty at the start of the trip.

"It gets worse. As Webster points out, in order to stage a breakdown in Lincoln, "it appeared that the Leaf was driven in loops for more than 10 miles in Lincoln until the battery was flat."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/georgemonbiot/2011/aug/05/top-gear-bbc

[QuadCityImages]

They've already answered those accusations:

http://transmission.blogs.topgear.com/2011/08/02/electric-cars-charges-answered/

While they didn't say "we started out with a half-empty battery" they also didn't say "when we left we had a full battery." Its an entertainment show, not a documentary. They stage a lot of things, after all.

That said, I do think they have an unfair grudge against battery cars. Yes, running out in a strange place would be terrible, but current electric cars aren't really meant to be driven strange places. They're meant to be driven to and from work, or around the town you live in, which is what most cars are used for. Think of any of your 2nd car, and unless its used for a very long commute, it could probably easily be replaced by something with a 50 mile range.

[Locke]

I get that its entertainment, but they have to be a little more careful with their biases, if they continue to do stuff like this then companies are going to be less willing to lend them their vehicles.

[3 Justin 3]

I get that its entertainment, but they have to be a little more careful with their biases, if they continue to do stuff like this then companies are going to be less willing to lend them their vehicles.

Good, more super cars then.

[Hack&Lube]

Top Gear is entertainment, anybody who thinks otherwise needs to understand that the majority of everything is staged and fake for entertainment and nothing else. Most sequences and surprise events, etc. are all preplanned and staged. It's Wraslin' Kayfabe for motorsports shows.

[Madman]

New Top Gear DVD - Top Gear at the Movies.

cZBqq-UaK98

[3 Justin 3]

Clarkson also has a DVD coming out in November. Also, like last year there is going to be a Christmas special and the a new series in January. So excited for the special.

[d_phaneuf]

Christmas special aired tonight, should be available for alternative means of viewing for those of us without access to the BBC soon...

[GreatWhiteEbola]

I am just waiting for the World (by world I mean GWE's pad) Premiere to air in my living room. Woot woot! Last years special was so good it might be tough to top it.

[3 Justin 3]

This year's is also 90 minutes long! I am downloading it now, so hopefully I can watch it in a few hours.

[GreatWhiteEbola]

This year's is also 90 minutes long! I am downloading it now, so hopefully I can watch it in a few hours.

PM sent.

[DownInFlames]

"At this point something very small arrived... in a Mini." Brilliant.

Overall it was a pretty good episode. Not as good as the last special, but I've been dying for some Top Gear so I'll take it.

I saw this one coming a mile away but I still laughed:

http://i.imgur.com/zE6Hj.jpg

[GreatWhiteEbola]

"I'm not paying 13 quid..."

[3 Justin 3]

I hate to be "that guy", but of all the specials I'd say that was of the lowest quality.

I'd rank them in this order:
Africa
Vietnam
Bolivia
America
Middle East
India

That isn't to say it wasn't entertaining, but I thought the first 30ish minutes were kind of boring.

[I-Hate-Hulse]

Yeah, I'd have to agree, it wasn't my favorite. And I'm a TG diehard.

The Trips are one of hte best parts of TG but they need to tweak them a little, it's getting a little too predictible.

- have presenters tamper with each other's car (usually the AC), check.
- gross out Hammond with food, check.
- tacky "gifts" for fellow presenters, check.
- epic vista shots in the last 30 min of show, check.
- say you love the car, since it got you this far, check.

[3 Justin 3]

As funny as the party was, the entire thing was staged and knowing that is was ruins it for me (honestly, you can tell). Same with the signs on the trains, while funny, were completely staged.

Even though they claim almost nothing is staged, you get the feeling that with a lot of the mishaps they are just staged because not only A) that would never happen organically, and B) the camera is always in the right angle to catch the shot.

For point B look no further than when Hammond was winching up James' car. The way the camera is angled and Hammond's expression.

Still love the show, but what made the Africa special so good was there were none of these "staged" events (for the most part), everything seemed to happen organically and that's when the show is at its best.

[GreatWhiteEbola]

TG India special wasn't their best effort, has the show jumped the shark? Perhaps.

I don't know if the budget cut did this or if they are just drained creatively, but it seems to less of what it was with every episode. I still enjoy the show, just something seems off to me.

[I-Hate-Hulse]

As funny as the party was, the entire thing was staged and knowing that is was ruins it for me (honestly, you can tell). Same with the signs on the trains, while funny, were completely staged.

Even though they claim almost nothing is staged, you get the feeling that with a lot of the mishaps they are just staged because not only A) that would never happen organically, and B) the camera is always in the right angle to catch the shot.

For point B look no further than when Hammond was winching up James' car. The way the camera is angled and Hammond's expression.

Still love the show, but what made the Africa special so good was there were none of these "staged" events (for the most part), everything seemed to happen organically and that's when the show is at its best.


Oh right.....you're the guy that thinks Top Gear isn't scripted at all....

[I-Hate-Hulse]

TG India special wasn't their best effort, has the show jumped the shark? Perhaps.

I don't know if the budget cut did this or if they are just drained creatively, but it seems to less of what it was with every episode. I still enjoy the show, just something seems off to me.


I actually thought Season 17 improved a lot, felt like they were adapting and trying some "new" things here and there.

I think they just need some new blood in the writers pool - too often they get lazy and do the old "well this got laughs last time" thing and copy it. That's when the scripting become apparent...

[MrMastodonFarm]

watching the special now...boring and predictable. the staged portions are even more obvious then usual. Jeremy won the uphill race by not doing what was agreed?

shocking.

[Hack&Lube]

Sad to say but Top Gear is running out of steam. The BBC budget cuts hit it pretty hard because whenever the scripting was cruddy, they would just throw money and explosions at it.

And yes it's all scripted, staged, and done in multiple takes - even the audience is asked to laugh at the same joke again if it didn't film properly the first time).

They should toss a wrench in the works, get a 4th presenter. I'd like to see Tiff Needle back as a proper foil to Clarkson.

[GreatWhiteEbola]

Sad to say but Top Gear is running out of steam. The BBC budget cuts hit it pretty hard because whenever the scripting was cruddy, they would just throw money and explosions at it.

And yes it's all scripted, staged, and done in multiple takes - even the audience is asked to laugh at the same joke again if it didn't film properly the first time).

They should toss a wrench in the works, get a 4th presenter. I'd like to see Tiff Needle back as a proper foil to Clarkson.

I dislike Tiff. They need a Mexican national as a 4th presenter.

[3 Justin 3]

watching the special now...boring and predictable. the staged portions are even more obvious then usual. Jeremy won the uphill race by not doing what was agreed?

shocking.

That's my problem with the staged portions, they're all predictable. At least back in series 5-10 they were all (mostly) different jokes so it didn't seem so bad. They've been using the same penis, hit May's car, mishap jokes for the past 5 series (or so) and it's really brought the show down.

No way do they get new presenters though.

Not sure how badly their budget was cut, but I don't think that's the downfall of the show. Just go review cars like you used to, they're usually always entertaining, but the show has evolved so much that if they did an entire series of just car reviews, the ratings would plummet and their be fan backlash.

[QuadCityImages]

Well, I still liked it. I laughed hysterically at the part where the banner was getting ripped out of their hands, which seemed dangerous even if it was staged.

[Madman]

Well, I still liked it. I laughed hysterically at the part where the banner was getting ripped out of their hands, which seemed dangerous even if it was staged.
I can't see that part being staged - which is why it was so funny for me.

[Hanni]

I still had some good laughs, wasn't expecting anything revolutionary, but was kind of disappointing feeling like I was just watching the Vietnam special again.

[3 Justin 3]

New series started Sunday and I've got to say it started with a fantastic episode.

The little teaser at the beginning was superb too, this series really looks like it's going to be an amazing one. The best series so far was one with 6 episodes + Olympic special, so I have high hopes for this one.

[icarus]

New series started Sunday and I've got to say it started with a fantastic episode.

The little teaser at the beginning was superb too, this series really looks like it's going to be an amazing one. The best series so far was one with 6 episodes + Olympic special, so I have high hopes for this one.Yeah I almost think I liked last night's episode better than the India special.

I'm shortlisted to be in the audience for an episode next month, keep your fingers crossed for me! :)

[3 Justin 3]

Yeah I almost think I liked last night's episode better than the India special.

I'm shortlisted to be in the audience for an episode next month, keep your fingers crossed for me! :)

Good luck in getting in! I've been on the waiting list for about 6 or 7 series' now.

[Puppet Guy]

I posted this in the funny video thread some time back, and figured it'd be a better fit here. For TG fans, and fans of subversive British kids' tv:


SMHhy-mGndI

[d_phaneuf]

I thought it was the best non-special episode since the Japan race

I really liked it

[LGA]

Chinese Stig vaulted himself into second place on the Stig list with that sweet preview.

[Madman]

Have to say, Episode 3 might be my least favorite in quite a while.

I found the entire movie segment to be stupid and actually not funny at all.

[afc wimbledon]

I posted this in the funny video thread some time back, and figured it'd be a better fit here. For TG fans, and fans of subversive British kids' tv:


SMHhy-mGndI


The guy that did Rainbow was quite the perv, there were always dirty versions they did to entertain themselves I suppose.

[Hanni]

Have to say, Episode 3 might be my least favorite in quite a while.

I found the entire movie segment to be stupid and actually not funny at all.

Second, also Matt LeBlanc might be the most boring interview I've ever seen.

[Doodlebug]

Does BBC Canada carry the new season? It's webpage is so horrible I cant tell what episodes/season's they are currently airing.

[Bill Bumface]

BBC Canada has to cut out about ~15 minutes of the show to fit in commercials. It's way better to grab them through your favorite online vendor.

[3 Justin 3]

BBC Canada has to cut out about ~15 minutes of the show to fit in commercials. It's way better to grab them through your favorite online vendor.

And they never cut what should be, Star in a Reasonably Priced Car. They cut the news too which is always good for a laugh or two.

[Thor]

My god, did anyone catch the babe standing behind the super annoying DR Who during his interview, crazy hot.

http://i.imgur.com/D2JQ9.jpg

[Hack&Lube]

My god, did anyone catch the babe standing behind the super annoying DR Who during his interview, crazy hot.

http://i.imgur.com/D2JQ9.jpg

Meh, there have been much hotter babes in the Top Gear audience before! But beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I don't have any screenshots to show you right now as I don't remember the exact episode!

[Thor]

Theres always a bunch of hotties, they seem to place them in the front too which is mighty nice of them.

[Wormius]

My god, did anyone catch the babe standing behind the super annoying DR Who during his interview, crazy hot.

http://i.imgur.com/D2JQ9.jpg

I was kind of fixated on her too, actually. Very cute. I can't stand British or Australian accents though, so if I ever heard her talk that would kill it for me.

[3 Justin 3]

I was kind of fixated on her too, actually. Very cute. I can't stand British or Australian accents though, so if I ever heard her talk that would kill it for me.

Really? Nothing is more sexy to me than a chick with a Aussie accent, especially if they're in a bikini. ;)

English accent is 'meh'.

[Wormius]

Really? Nothing is more sexy to me than a chick with a Aussie accent, especially if they're in a bikini. ;)

English accent is 'meh'.

I used to find accents exotic and sexy, but really they don't turn my crank anymore. I think the only one I find nice is an Irish one. Gotta love those Corr sisters.

[GreatWhiteEbola]

Perfect example of an hot Australian with a stupid accent is Cherie Ditcham.

[Madman]

I caught up on the latest series of Top Gear USA, (Season 3), this weekend and I have to say I loved every episode and laughed out loud during each one - really impressed with the latest series for sure.

[GreatWhiteEbola]

I caught up on the latest series of Top Gear USA, (Season 3), this weekend and I have to say I loved every episode and laughed out loud during each one - really impressed with the latest series for sure.

It has improved, what I have issue with is calling Rutledge Wood "the expert" in the intro. What is he an expert of, Nascar and Eating?

They seem to have gone for the full episode challenge with a big star, small car; no news or other commentaries. I don't recall a power lap being done in the last few episodes, or if at all in series 3.

[Madman]

It has improved, what I have issue with is calling Rutledge Wood "the expert" in the intro. What is he an expert of, Nascar and Eating?

They seem to have gone for the full episode challenge with a big star, small car; no news or other commentaries. I don't recall a power lap being done in the last few episodes, or if at all in series 3.
I agree, he is definitely not an expert - but the comedy between the 3 of them is great now.

Power lap was done with the 2 Mustangs and the Atom.

[GreatWhiteEbola]

50 Years of Bond Cars: A Top Gear Special aired tonight and can be found in the usual places.

[MrMastodonFarm]

Really? Nothing is more sexy to me than a chick with a Aussie accent, especially if they're in a bikini. ;)

English accent is 'meh'.

Aussie accents are the worst, Aussies in general are the worst.

Nothing is cuter then a hot Indian girl with a refined British accent. It sounds better on them then whitey.

[polak]

Eww Bristish accents are the worst. So unattractive, unless you're drunk. Then it feels like you're hitting on Hermoine.

I love Aussie accents.

[d_phaneuf]

http://www.topgear.com/uk/photos/Top-Gear-TV-is-back-2013-01-03

January 27th return!

has a little slideshow of some of the things in the season (and the special) looks great

[Tinordi]

Just watched the one when they have to film a car chase. That was hilarious.

"Turn off the traction control."

[undercoverbrother]

Eww Bristish accents are the worst. So unattractive, unless you're drunk. Then it feels like you're hitting on Hermoine.

I love Aussie accents.


What aussie accents are horrible, all sound like whiney bitches...

[polak]

I think my attraction to Aussie accents may have more to do with the ratio of hot/ugly women with said accent.

[undercoverbrother]

I think my attraction to Aussie accents may have more to do with the ratio of hot/ugly women with said accent.



:bag:

[Wormius]

Aussie accents conjure up images of "Muriel's Wedding". Similarly, when I hear British accents I think, "Coronation Street" .

[3 Justin 3]

doEKgGMQN8A

The last couple seconds looks like a "special" and it looks like a sweet location.

I'm really excited.

[Euro Flame]

cant wait

[Wormius]

Is the Lexus SC430 really as bad as the Top Gear guys claim? I was kind of eyeing some used ones for just a fun convertible to drive around.

[polak]

I think they mainly make fun of its looks.

[3 Justin 3]

It's terrible in every way. Every time I see one I feel the human race has failed.

Atrocious vehicle.

[Wormius]

Is it mainly the appearance or is there some underlying issues as well (I mean for the casual driver, not the want to try the vehicle on a race course way)?

Any thoughts on the Audi TT then?

[polak]

Older Audi TT's are just better looking, more expensive GTI's.

Not a bad thing though...