Someone needs to stop chopping onions because my eyes are definitely watering—not just because I just watched the trailer for The Grand Tour’s finale. While the exit of the original Top Gear trio has been on the horizon for a while, it still feels bittersweet. Last year, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May announced they had one final special left in their lineup. Nevertheless, seeing that last trailer is still an emotional experience.
Will this final special bring back the nostalgic charm of the early days of Top Gear, which has largely been absent since The Grand Tour began? I wish I could say yes, but I remain cautiously hopeful; pragmatically, I have my doubts. Regardless, Clarkson, Hammond, and May have provided countless car enthusiasts, like myself, with automotive joy for over twenty years. They played a significant role in my passion for cars, and I know I’m not alone in feeling this way. Even though The Grand Tour has started to feel a bit stale—I can’t even remember if I finished the latest special—their influence on the automotive community remains undeniably strong.
The upcoming special, titled One for the Road, appears to follow the familiar formula of their previous adventure specials. The trio embarks on a journey in three vintage cars, notably unsuitable for challenging terrains. As is typical, they modify the vehicles for the harsh environments, often removing doors and stripping out interiors, which adds a humorous twist to their discomfort. I appreciate this sense of familiarity; in this final episode, I don’t want them to try anything new. What I crave is a classic Clarkson, Hammond, and May expedition.
Based on the trailer, this last special showcases all the hallmark elements fans have come to love. Each host selects a vehicle that reflects their personality: Clarkson opts for an old Lancia Scorpion, embodying his tradition of choosing unreliable Italian cars; Hammond drives a Ford Capri, representing his affinity for down-to-earth sports cars; while May’s choice of a Mk2 Triumph Stag highlights his knack for picking less popular ones.
One for the Road is set to premiere on September 13, exclusively on Amazon Prime. I’ll be tuning in on the first day. Even though I recognize it’s time for the trio to step back, it still saddens me.
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