- “Top Gear” has been one of the most popular shows around the globe for nearly two decades.
- The “Top Gear” test track has appeared in a James Bond movie.
- “Top Gear” holds two Guinness World Records.
- Visit Insider’s homepage for more stories.
For years, fans of the British motor show “Top Gear” have watched its presenters put cars to the limits in wacky challenges and on the show’s famous test track.
Its success is largely due to the chemistry of former presenters Richard Hammond, James May, and Jeremy Clarkson, who hosted the show from the early 2000s until 2015. That year, Clarkson left the show after being suspended for punching a producer in the face (he later apologized and a settlement was reached with the producer). Following his departure, Hammond and May followed suit and now the show is hosted by Paddy McGuinness, Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff, and Chris Harris.
While it’s not as popular as it used to be, “Top Gear” still commands an audience in the millions around the world. There have been American versions, too: “Top Gear USA” aired for six seasons, and “Top Gear America” is currently in its second season.
With season 30 of BBC’s “Top Gear” airing on March 14, we decided to compile some interesting facts you might not know about the world’s favorite car show.
