Retro Hot Hatches

Episode Summary & Review

Summary

Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May attempt to prove that the hot hatchbacks of their youth were better than their modern equivalents by buying a ‘classic’ example of the breed each and thenundertaking a series of challenges.After tackling a tricky hillclimb course and an unusual visit to the supermarket, the three arrive at an old army training ground in Wales where their ageing cars must evade the heavily armed and heavily moustachioed Top Gear Police Department.Plus, Downton Abbey’s Hugh Bonneville is the star in the Reasonably Priced Car.

Our Take

The hot hatch nostalgia premise is solid and the Welsh army base chase with the Top Gear police delivers some genuine laughs, but the middle section drags badly, especially the supermarket bit that runs twice as long as the joke deserves. Bonneville’s interview is pleasant enough without being memorable. A decent season opener, just don’t expect the sparks of the show’s best episodes.