You must have missed the UK version with Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz, or the episode with Marc Wahlberg, Partick Stewart, Jeff Goldblum, etc...
http://topgear.wikia.com/wiki/...d_carI have watched the UK version for numberous seasons and find the running gags ( captain slow, bumping each others cars, the constant knocking the others' choice in cars, spending X pounds on a Y car and then attempting assigned tasks, etc ) to be an unmeasurable part of the charm of the show. The new show does not have it, sorry to say. Not yet, at least.Tanner Foust does not interact well with others. He is accustom to being lauded and has difficultly giving others the spotlight. Tanner had a show ( SuperCars exposed ) where he drove exotic cars, in which he was good because it was only him, or a better production staff. In Battle of the Supercars Tanner showed just how much of talent he lacks. But then again, Paul Tracy suffers from an extreme Napoleon complex. Undoubtly a very telented driver, but Tanner wants everyone to keep acknowledging his skills...Adam Ferrara's interview with Buzz was completely pointless. In addition, Adam was left stumbling for words when describing Buzz's lap. No names for the corners, like Gambon. Just Turn number 2. Adam can not interview to save his life.Rutledge Wood on the other hand has potential. He most resembles the wit which made the UK series a hit. This was evident in his dialog with Foust while parked in the Viper. In addition he is an average Joe. No chip on his shoulder. Comfortable with his own presence.A major difference is the UK version has a HUGE budget. Apparently the biggest on the BBC. Wonderful cinematography. Excellent editting. Better scripts and dialog. All lacking in the US version. In addition, the UK version is extremely entertaining. It is not just a show about cars, but moreover the adventures/misadventures you can have with your cars.More importantly is the interaction in the UK series. The three cast members are well defined. Their attitudes and perspectives are well established. Granted Jeremy Clarkson's preference for german automobiles is a given, but that is his point. It is suprizingly entertaining when he lauds something you would not expect, and he is amazingly blunt in the face of automobile quality..... But then again, when he was nailed in the nads by a paintball from an F1 -- Priceless.Only time will tell if the US series is as entertaining. They have a way to go. The UK series has established a legacy which will be tough to match.