S11E4

Bullet Train

Aired 2008-07-13 60 min ★ 8.5/10 our take
⚠ Spoiler alert This recap gives away what happens in this episode.

Episode Summary & Review

Summary

In a race across Japan, Jeremy Clarkson tries to prove that the technical masterpiece that is the Nissan GT-R is faster than Richard Hammond and James May traveling on the ultra efficient Japanese public transport, including the 200 mph Shinkansen Bullet Train. Jeremy also tests the beautiful new Alpha Romeo 8C on the Top Gear track. UK newsreaders Fiona Bruce and Kate Silverton are the “Stars in a Reasonably Priced Car.”

Our Take

This is Top Gear near its best, with the Japan race delivering exactly the kind of absurd premise and genuine suspense the show does well. The GT-R versus bullet train format gives all three presenters something to do, and the Alfa 8C segment is a nice bonus. The newsreader bit is fine but skippable. Worth your time.