User reviews

Yes, this show is about cars, but then again it isn't. Mostly it's about extremes of opinion, dreams and fantasies, dares, one-up-man-ship, and taking everything just a little bit further. And it's also entertaining - very entertaining, which is what television is meant to be, and so often is not. I'm not all that interested in cars, and my son doesn't even drive, but we both love the show, and watch it religiously.

The balance of presenters: Jeremy, the loud-mouthed, cuttingly funny, over-bearing older guy; Richard, the young, cute, quirky, adolescent one; James, the sensitive, quiet, contemplative, intelligent one; is nothing short of genius!

It seems that no expense is spared, either on the experiments and dares, or on filming, and this adds to the visual experience. This show is funny, even hilarious at times, classy, controversial, and hugely entertaining. Most people I know who watch this show know almost less than nothing about cars, and I think that says a lot about how successfully this program reaches beyond the expected demographic of young male petrol-heads.

I don't care what anyone says - the British are the funniest of all. Jeremy, Richard and James are all so different - but this is what makes this show REALLY work. I have fallen off the couch so many times laughing that it is becoming a hazard!

The show is entertaining, informative and hilarious - I would say the only drawback is after watching it you have to go and get in your own car and imagine what Jeremy would say about it. (I can assure you - his comments would not be good about mine!!)

It also doesn't hurt that James May is the most delicious thing on two legs - I just love this British gentleman - he is what men ought to be!

This one definitely goes all the way to 11!

As an American, your selection of automotive programming is quite limited. On one hand there is the SPEED Channel that is not available in every market, and on the other there is the "Powerblock" on Spike TV that offers little more than how to add a bit of power to your Grandmother's '81 Caprice.

Even as an import, Top Gear simply blew my mind away during my first viewing of the show last year when The Discovery Channel ran a season of the show slightly altered for the US Market.

For one, the personality of the show is unlike anything I have seen before. The show's lead host, Mr. Jeremy Clarkson is rather opinionated on everything, and although he will never hide the fact that he does not like something, he himself is quite likable as a person. On the opposite side of the spectrum, there is Mr. James May, quite possibly the most British man I have ever seen on television or in the movies. He isn't offensive in any way, and although he may be known as "captian slow," his presentations are quite enjoyable as they always seem to come from someone with a level head. Caught in the middle is Mr. Richard Hammond, a rather young Briton who embodies the current generation of automotive fandom. All together, the hosts balance each other out, and each offer their own perspective to the show, appealing to a wide range of people.

Outside of the "acting," the cinematography of the show is breathtaking, given that it is a weekly event in the UK. Occasionally the segments rival that of some of the best television shows or movies that I have seen, and although they are primarily focused on the car and the hosts themselves, the surrounding environment often plays a large role in the different reviews.

...But then you add the great soundtracks of the reviews, the quirky setups to the different tests (such as a Bugatti Veyron racing a plane from Italy to England), and the great test laps done by the Stig... It all adds up to one of the greatest television programs, well, ever.

It truly is a shame that the viewing of Top Gear is generally limited to the internet via You Tube or Google Video here in the US, but there was a pilot filmed for The Discovery Channel in the US for an American version of Top Gear, but thus far, nothing has happened.

If you have the time, I highly suggest you take a look at the show, interested in automobiles or not.

Top Gear is, without question, the single greatest show about cars on TV. What sets Top Gear apart is the attitude the presenters have. Other shows tend focus on reviewing all of the various technical details and specifications of the particular car they review... They'll give you more information yes, but they do so in a cold and clinical manner. That comes off as being a bit, well, German doesn't it? Top Gear on the other hand, refuses to take itself seriously, which is what makes it so great. Sure, Top Gear will talk about how many newton meters of torque the Mercedes AMG CLS65 has and how that makes it the most powerful production car in the world, but how will they convey that? By showing you just how many men it requires to beat it in a tug of war contest. They'll try to explain why the Cadillac Escalade, arguably one of the worst cars you can buy, is one of the coolest. They'll see how many motorcycles you can jump with a bus. Yes, you read that the right way 'round: How many parked motorcycles you can jump over while driving a bus.

But Top Gear is more than just goofing around in cars. It's witty, it's funny, and it makes you feel like one of the guys. The three presenters all poke fun at one another, at cars, at themselves, and all the while you feel like you are right there in the studio hanging out with them. Oh yeah, and you don't even have to like cars to like the show. There's something in it for everyone. For sheer car freaks, the filmed review segments of the cars have seriously high production value- You'd think you were watching a $150 million dollar film directed by Michael Bay. The are just that slick. The music selection used in the filmed segments is also top notch, with some of the coolest cuts from both then and now. The news segment, where the presenters sit down to discuss what's new in the world of cars, traffic laws, or motoring in general is riotously funny. You may not know who the Chief Constable of Wales or the British Minister of Transporation are, but trust me- You don't need to in order to laugh at them. Then there's the "Star in a Reasonably Priced Car" segment, where each week a guest celebrity will come on to do an interview and then race around the Top Gear test track in a budget priced sedan to see how they compare to other famous celebrities who have done the same. And for the girls that tune in? Well, there's co-host Richard Hammond.

It is the presenters (hosts) that make the show though. You'll love to hate Jeremy Clarkson, possibly the worlds most opinionated and boastful man. James May, in sharp contrast, is almost a stereotype of an English gentleman. Reserved, witty, and refusing to run on television, May is cursed with quite possibly the best narrative style and voice I've ever heard. Bringing up the rear is Richard Hammond, the youngest, shortest, and most enthusiastic of the lot. Women will love him, because he's also the cutest.

I'm not even going to mention their tamed racing driver who tests all of the high powered cars on the same track to see how they compare to one another, a mysterious creature dressed in white that is only known as "The Stig". Well, apart from that mention of The Stig. I won't do it any more.

But please, please please, make sure you watch the full, unedited, hour-long version of Top Gear, which in some markets is known as "Top Gear Xtra". There is a trimmed down 30 minute version of the show which omits the news, the celebrities, and trims the filmed reviews for time. It's still good, but nowhere near as brilliant. And avoid the horribly edited and mangled US version of the show. Arguably the best Car show on in the states, it is an affront to the glory that is the raw, hour long series that is broadcast in the UK.

I've been watching this show for over 7 years now and I have to say it just keeps getting better. Many people spit and shout about the show not being about cars and more of an entertainment show than a car show. Well firstly let me say that this show began in 1978and went on for 12 seasons and the one complaint about that show was that it was boring and Clarkson picked up on this and changed the show (in my view) for the better.

What is it about the show that makes it so outrageously good? Well lets discuss the characters. Jeremy Clarkson - the man you wish was your friend. A sarcastic, cheeky and rude individual who is hilariously funny. His ideas are genius and he is not afraid to speak his mind - that is what i like most about him. He does not and will not lie and say a car is good and/or bad on bias alone in which many people think he does. Take Alfa's for instance, he loves them, but he will not sugar coat what he knows about the electrics in the car you just have to actually listen to what he says. Richard Hammond - The quirky one. Tends to be more positive about things but my god he is funny. His outrageous ideas and creations like his Narrow boat are fantastic. He is critical when reviewing, yet entertaining when necessary. James May (Captain Slow) - You have to love him really. He is a more precise critic on cars but tend to take, Unfortunately for him, more boring cars like 4 door saloons but in recent episodes we have seen him show his true colours and passion for cars by taking the Veyron up to top speed twice.

You have to remember that this is no the reason why this show is still a highly rated show 8 years on is not just because of these 3 personalities. When Clarkson was asked why is this show so great he gave FULL responsibility to the camera crews (who do absolutely stunning wok and should set a benchmark for cameramen around the world), the producers (who supposedly stay in work until 2am working) and all the back-room staff that organise everything.

You have to remember that these people have a passion for cars. Anyone who loves cars and has that inner child inside which allows for that bit of fun would realise that this truly is one of the best shows on modern TV and always will be. It is also every 10 year old dream job and also mine!

While it can be argued that more substantial programmes exist, whether fictional or not, it is certain that Top Gear is an extraordinarily entertaining show with plenty to keep most on their bolsters. This is certainly due to the faithful backing of the BBC, but more importantly, to the three crazed bloody lunatics who host the series. Clarkson, May and Hammond share between each other many decades worth of experience in broadcasting, as well as motoring, and are impeccable contrasts well matched for their respective opinions 'n roles. The various features included in the shows and the involvement in these & all motoring matters, are exemplary, and quite frankly, unmatched by anything television has yet seen. I can safely assume that no better motoring show exists anywhere. I love it, so will you, guaranteed.

This show was absolutely amazing when Clarkson, May and Hammond were hosting. It was great! I watched this with my dad and we both found it absolutely hilarious, I'm a big fan of Clarkson (not his politics) and he just brought the humour along with Hammond and May. When the BBC fired Clarkson they shouldn't have kept it going as it lost all that was good about it. Me and my dad watched an episode of Chris Evans hosting top gear - TRASH. Matt LeBlanc hosting - Not one laugh in the entire episode. Stick with Clarkson, May and Hammond.

Top Gear is classic.

Top Gear is best car / vehicle show ever made and it is a diamond.

Top Gear is funny, interesting and packs a punch of information about cars.

Well it was until 2016 came along and they changed the cast.

Top Gear 2016 is very bad for newcomers. We all got used to the Clarkson, the small guy and the old guy. Old Top Gear had soul and all around was just a pleasure to watch. The new show is just like a copycat you see in other countries that try to make their own show with similar people but they fail and will fail always.

R.I.P TOP GEAR 2015

if u love cars u're definitely going to fall in love with show from the very first season. i can still remember vividly when there was Jason Dawes instead of James may now.. i fell in love with this from the very beginning..i mean i had to download the whole seasons. i watched each and every episodes. watched it for long 6 years.. i taught me more about cars and motoring than i would ever learn..specially from Jeremy, Richard and James...loved their friendship, their jokes, their nasty little laughs, their explanation or should i say exploration of cars. their reviews about the cars are still the best than any other top gears. i m sure there are plenty of top gears now...starting from Australia to Zimbabwe. it rips my heart to see my favorite show ends in this way..such a tiny little matter turned into a big fuss..it wasn't necessary..but we know all good things should come to an end so thats it i guess.but top gear will be missed!! I'm sure as hell going to miss it...

Commenting on the Clarkson-Hammond-May trio only.

These guys started out with a pretty good show and they just kept getting better. No other TV show ever lived this long and achieved the level of excellence of Top Gear. All three presenters have been really sharp, funny and dedicated to their job. Even if you don't give a toss about cars you've got to check out a few episodes of this show.

A lot of people give the BBC a hard time for sacking Clarkson. I'm sure they knew it was going to be their loss, not Clarkson's. But as James May said they had no choice given the circumstances.

But we got over 10 years worth of excellent TV from these guys already.

If you're new to Top Gear maybe check out some of the road trip episodes, e.g., the relatively recent Burma one.

The 10 out of 10 was for when Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May. The best trio in the world were funny and just really enjoyable to watch but when Chris Evans took over it just went from 10/10 to 1/10 in just 1 episode. It has improved with Matt and the others bit not amazing like it was and it will never be the same

Update in 2021: The new crew started well but gone down. The show is now pretentious, boring, and uninspiring.

Freddy is the nicest of the group, but he is unoriginal, and his car knowledge is lacking.

Harris is very knowledgeable but his personality is becoming annoying. The way he thinks he is better than everyone else, and the way he accepts the practical jokes without participating makes it look like he is being bullied even though he is not.

The other guy, Paddy, well he is just boring yet loud. Very few redeeming features if any at all.

Top Gear in its prime (2003-2015) was the best. It was smart and funny. Kids learned something from it. The jokes were clever, the fun was authentic and the presenters were natural and down to earth. This new group is none of those things (Freddy is cool but out of his depth).

___________________ 10 stars when JC, RH and JM were the presenters. 5 stars with the new crew.

Other reviews has clarified why it went downhill so will not bore you but I have to say that LeBlanc is primarily an actor, an average one at that. I like him as Joey but he is merely an attractive, mildly charming man you meet at the bar - he is no Marlon Brando or Daniel Day-Lewis.

It seems to me that on Top Gear he is only acting when presenting the show. However, there is no script, so there are no lines to memorise and that is where you can see he lacks: 1- extensive car knowledge like the old crew and Harris, 2- any show-hosting abilities like the old crew and Rory, 3- any personality.

I'm afraid LeBlanc is failing when trying too hard to be funny without a script, or he is just dull as a presenter. Sorry mate. He is dragging the show down. The producers should not be focusing on him only. Give the others (or better yet, someone else) a chance.

I TRIED watching the Top Gear past 2015, but with Jeremy, Richard and James' departure, the show is simply AWEFUL. BBC and Top Gear made what's probably the biggest mistake in Prime Television HISTORY, by firing the Top Gear presenters who had been with the show for over 20 seasons, and now, they're trying to fill the shoes of Giants, with a rag-tag bunch of idiots... I honestly don't know who any of these new people are, and frankly, I don't care.

I tried today watching the new "Nepal Special" where 3 random guys take 3 £6000 cars for a drive through Nepal, but it's simply not entertaining. And they think that being mischievous and screaming like a child, is going to make it seem like they can somehow bring levity to a really boring situation (almost like these youtubers who scream and act fake, just in an effort to seem funny).

So here's my rating: Anything before 2015 is 10/10 Anything after 2015 is 1/10

If you like cars, then this programme is just simply amazing. Unlike most programmes that are in this genre, the programme has survived a beyond 20 years at the top, and not many programmes come close. 5th Gear on five does come close, but it just doesn't have the heart or the dedication that Top Gear does.

While the people on 5th Gear only talk about cars, the Top Gear crew talk about everything that is to do with cars, and not just the cars themselves. For example, they have "Star in a Reasonably Priced Car" where a celebrity goes round their track to see how fast they are. And once, they decided to test the Toyota Pickup's claim of being the "the toughest car on the road" by basically ramming it into stuff, and putting it on a building that got demolished etc. and it still actually run. They also once tested if you can run your diesel car off of Vegetable Oil (you can, although your exhaust smells like a bag of chips).

Overall, this programme's great and a show you must fit into your weekly schedule, gets 10/10

Top Gear is the epitome of what T.V entertainment is all about. I have reacquainted myself with Top Gear after not watching it really since the early nineties and it certainly has come a very long way. Almost everything is executed brilliantly on this show and it makes everything work. For example, undoubtedly the presenters have enormous comedic value (especially Jeremy's dry humour) and chemistry, and they work well together and have as much fun as possible in the process. That is the underlying factor of this programme - pure unadulterated fun. The music, filming and editing is also superb. And this is all before the cars themselves.

Another great aspect of the show I found is that although it's not hard to guess their target audience, as this does seem a predominantly male show, I found it is enjoyed by all ages and both genders alike. That is one of the amazing aspects of the show, its aptitude to extend beyond the target audience and having a broader appeal to even people who acknowledge cars in their lives to be simply nothing more than 'four wheels and an engine' to them.

It does have its sensible practical side, but it is quickly overshadowed by then not taking itself an ounce seriously in the next review or discussion. There is no compromise sometimes, if a particular presenter dislikes a car, boy do they like to express it, but in a funny way.

The show is a fantastic combination of elements that make it compulsive viewing. You have the varying and humorous personalities of the presenters, the controversial comments of Jeremy Clarkson (who tells it exactly how it is), the cars themselves, the music as mentioned before and its intelligent touch. It is not completely mindless even though it would appear so with some of the pointless but nevertheless hugely entertaining challenges.

For me it is a dream job. They frequently jet to exotic locations to test the worlds most powerful and exotic cars. Take part in both ridiculous but ridiculously entertaining challenges that make no sense. Just about everything that entertaining T.V is, is incorporated into the show and becomes so much more than a magazine motoring show.

Even with an appreciation for cars, I routinely overlook automotive programming beyond racing due to their dry, technical nature. Recently- discovered Top Gear (UK) shatters the image, with hosts Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May providing narrative styles and tastes which contrast as much as their physical appearance. From their regular features such as their unsparing reviews of the top models (without commercial influence), "Stars in Sensibly Prices Cars" and the "Cool Wall" to their adventures and challenges, the boldness and originality of the endeavors and cheeky humor of the hosts is reminiscent of Python at its absurdist best. Thankfully, BBA America provides ample opportunity to catch up on this under-appreciated show.

I'm giving this review purely for the older seasons with Clarkson, Hammond and May. The seasons after 'the golden days' don't even come close to the '10' I gave.

Every season produced from 2016 is sloppy and lacks humour, while the camerawork stays fine. Truly masterworks are a thing of the past, 2015 and earlier that is.

Seldom in the whole history of television has a tv show crashed & burned so catastrophically as Top Gear has in recent years. Until 2015 Top Gear was literally the greatest show on earth, and 350 million would tune in each week to follow the hilarious car based antics of Clarkson, Hammond and May, and the best on screen chemistry since the Marx Brothers or even Laurel & Hardy. Then came 'Punchgate', and since 2016 we've had to suffer the obnoxiously loud Chris Evans, the nice but dull Matt leBlanc, and most recently a Dirty Sanchez tribute act - as hard as they try, none will ever escape the gigantic shadow of the 'holy trinity'. Meanwhile Top Gear just staggers on like a punch-drunk ex World Champion who doesn't know when it's time to quit.

Without a doubt the best programme on TV, it's about the only thing on the BBC that is worth the Licence Fee. I can't wait for the new series in the autumn, I have just been watching the Polar Special, where Jeremy and James in a pick up truck, race Hamster on a dog sled, (with his white teeth) to the North Pole. Brilliant viewing and how Jeremy or James didn't kill each other with an ice axe we will never know! This programme just keeps getting better, and the format shouldn't be changed in any shape or form, Lets hope they can keep those doom and gloom health and safety idiots at bay, otherwise it will be just like any other motoring programme. Rubbish!

top gear is viewed in over 100 countries around the world in more then 30 languages and is nothing short of the one of the best television shows of all time. i have fallowed the show since the first episodes before James may became one of the presenters and to say that the show continues to get better would be an understatement. with every passing season what ever my expectations were set by the previous seasons have always been blown out of the water with ease. from the first seasons were they showed the world grannies that could do donuts to the latest seasons were they have crossed entire continents with cars that could barely run all the while completing impossible challenges along the way. in the end i highly recommend this series to any one young, old, rich, pore, auto enthusiast or out in out tree huger because you would have to be mental not to like this show.

Some hate it. Lots more love it. The truth is, is that you don't have to be a petrol head to love this show. I myself couldn't care less about cars, but I tune in to every new episode. The presenters make the show what it is - Clarkson is extremely opinionated, not everybody's cup of tea but he is extremely funny at times and I enjoy watching him. May and Hammond both contrast nicely - the laddish banter makes the show extremely watchable. While the main series are very good - the segments beautifully filmed and composed - I really would encourage watching the specials as well. Overall, a thoroughly entertaining, funny and engaging show.

Ive been watching this show for more than 11 years now. It was really good. It took a major hit when it lost the main hosts . Matt leblanc and chris harris were good but it is now HORRIBLE . Paddie and freddie are really annoying. the show is just unbearable. The visuals are still really good though. People behind the camera are doing a really good job.

After Jeremy, Hammond and May left (2015) Top Gear is a total disaster. None of the new hosts has any charisma or sense of humor. Does this review contain spoilers?! NO! No one expected something good to happen.