New from the BBC’s Top Gear, the SUVs which featured in the extended last episode of Series 22, are now on display to the public at Beaulieu’s World of Top Gear.
In the second half of the programme, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May try to become lifestyle leisure enthusiasts with the help of some incredibly cheap 4x4s.
Restricted to a maximum budget of £250, the trio bought three massive mileage SUVs and then embarked on a series of action packed challenges that included battling with the Stig’s ‘Leisure Activity Cousin’ and a race with terrifying consequences for the loser.
Jeremy’s 4×4 of choice was a Vauxhall Frontera, extensively modified to a unique ‘lifestyle’ brief and boasting many features inspired by upmarket deep sea fishing boats, such as the white paintwork and extra aerials. Aside from that, the car remains completely standard – except that half of it is missing.
Richard’s Jeep Cherokee features a classic 4-litre straight six engine, a selectable four-wheel-drive system and various dings caused by caravans. This vehicle has been modified in a subtly unsubtle fashion, inspired by woodsmen of the Yukon, doomsday preppers of Utah, and a silly man who likes American things although he lives near Ross-on-Wye.
James favoured a Mitsubishi Shogun Pinin which he drove – unintentionally – into a large, water filled trench with evidence of this excursion noticeable in the damp and misty headlights. You may also appreciate May’s revamped colour scheme which was inspired by wetsuits of the 1980s.
The SUVs join a whole host of vehicles at Beaulieu created by the Top Gear presenters for some of their most ambitious challenges.
Enter the ‘Enormodrome’ which recreates the feel of the Top Gear studio with regular features from the programme including the Cool Wall. Visitors can also watch behind-the-scenes footage of the Top Gear production zone and clips of some of the best Top Gear moments.
World of Top Gear can be seen as part of a visit to the whole Beaulieu attraction which also includes the National Motor Museum, Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey.
Beaulieu is open every day, except Christmas Day, from 10am. For more information telephone 01590 612345 or visit www.beaulieu.co.uk