Fifth Gear

In the season's first episode, Tim Shaw tests whether having an old banger is actually cheaper than a new car.

Olympic rowing gold medalist Matthew Pinsent tests sports cars. Tim tries to discover if manufacturers' economy claims transfer to the real world.

Stand-up comedian and motorbike fanatic Ross Noble gets to play Evel Knievel with his hero Dougie Lampkin, a prolific stunt rider.

Tim Shaw visits Pit Start, a fully-stocked repair shop with a twist - there are no mechanics.

Tiff and Jason face off on an enormous off-road playground in a variety of tanks; Tim investigates the cratered world of potholes.

Tim uncovers just how many motorists don't check their oil.

Tim investigates the government's new scrappage system that promises cash in exchange for bangers; Tiff and Jason race a pair of double-decker buses.

Tim heads to London to investigate the new craze of car share clubs; Jason Plato meets up with celebrity chef James Martin, whose enviable car collection includes a busted Formula One.

Tiff and Jonny devise some driving challenges to find out which of four new hot hatches is the best; Jason heads to the continent to test drive the new Audi TT-RS.

In the last episode of the season, Tiff tests a Caterham Roadsport 175 by driving essential medical supplies around the country; Tom drives SEAT's new family saloon; Jason enjoys the monstrous Lamborghini LP670-4 Super Veloce.

As a kid, there was nothing more exciting than sitting on the kitchen floor and defeating the laws of physics by making your favourite toy car loop the loop around a Hot Wheels track. Now, "Fifth Gear" has done the trick for real.