S14E7

Most Expensive Road Tests

Aired 2010-01-03 60 min ★ 7.9/10 our take
⚠ Spoiler alert This recap gives away what happens in this episode.

Episode Summary & Review

Summary

Jeremy Clarkson makes a film about the BMW X6 and ends up conducting one of the most expensive road tests in Top Gear history. James May drives the new Vauxhall Insignia VXR, accompanied by Margaret Calvert, the designer of Britain’s road signs; and Richard Hammond tests the 340,000 pound Lexus supercar on the Top Gear track. The boys then try out the latest in electric personal transport in the studio, and the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car is blues musician Seasick Steve.

Our Take

A mixed bag with some genuinely fun moments. The BMW film goes big and mostly earns the spectacle, and Margaret Calvert riding along with James is a quietly lovely touch that gives the segment real personality. The Lexus test looks great but feels a bit thin. Worth it for Seasick Steve alone, who’s easily the most charming guest of the season.