Format
The show follows a similar format of the BBC version: three main hosts present, The Stig (a secret race driver) tests vehicles, and celebrities are invited for interviews and to drive vehicles around a test track. In addition, challenges similar in nature to the ones presented in the original show are replicated in Top Gear. The "Star in a Reasonably Priced Car" (retitled "Big Star, Small Car") segment uses a Suzuki SX4 Sportback. Filming of this segment, along with in-studio segments take place at the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, now known as the Orange County Great Park, in Irvine, California.
Producers of the History version have noted a greater interest in car customization by American car enthusiasts than in Britain. As of season 3, this element has been incorporated as the main focus of the show and the hosts no longer interview guests, review cars or produce Power Laps.
Read more about this topic: Top Gear (U.S. TV Series)