Top Gear Series 13 Opens with Ferrari FXX and Lotus Evora
The first episode of Top Gear’s thirteenth series aired in June 2009, featuring a Ferrari FXX test, a Lotus Evora review and Michael Schumacher as the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car.
Top Gear returned to BBC Two for its thirteenth series on 21 June 2009, opening with an episode that put supercar performance and celebrity intrigue at the centre of the show. The headline act was a rare Ferrari FXX track test, with the team also giving the new Lotus Evora its first appearance on the programme. Michael Schumacher joined as the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car.
Overview of Top Gear Season 13 Episode 1
Ferrari FXX Laps Dunsfold
The Ferrari FXX, a track-only development car based on the Enzo and not homologated for road use, was the focus of the episode’s main film. With a 6.3-litre V12 producing over 800bhp, the FXX was driven around the Top Gear test track in what became one of the show’s most talked-about laps. The car’s exclusivity, with only 30 produced, added to the spectacle for viewers and car enthusiasts alike.
The segment concluded with the FXX setting a lap time, but it was not directly compared with road cars due to its slick tyres and racing set-up. This marked the FXX as a special feature, highlighting the difference between track-only machines and conventional supercars that typically appear on the leaderboard.
Lotus Evora Reviewed
Jeremy Clarkson reviewed the Lotus Evora, the first all-new Lotus in over a decade at the time. The Evora was positioned as a more practical alternative to the Elise, offering 2+2 seating and a Toyota-sourced 3.5-litre V6 engine. Clarkson’s test focused on the car’s handling, ride quality and everyday usability, with the review filmed both on road and track.
The Evora’s combination of performance and comfort was a key talking point in the segment. The episode highlighted how Lotus aimed to broaden its appeal beyond hardcore enthusiasts to those seeking a sports car suitable for daily driving. The Evora’s introduction was significant for Lotus, as it marked a return to developing all-new models rather than updating existing ones.
Michael Schumacher’s Appearance
Michael Schumacher was the episode’s celebrity guest, taking to the track in the show’s Chevrolet Lacetti. Schumacher’s appearance was notable for the on-screen joke that he was The Stig, a running gag that generated considerable media attention at the time. His lap in the Reasonably Priced Car was a highlight of the studio segment, drawing reactions from both the audience and the presenters.
The episode’s twist involving Schumacher and The Stig added to the show’s reputation for blending motoring with entertainment. The segment became one of the more memorable moments of the series, as it played with the ongoing mystery surrounding The Stig’s identity.
Episode Reception and Series Context
Top Gear’s thirteenth series began with strong viewership and interest, thanks to the combination of rare cars, celebrity involvement and the show’s typical mix of humour and competition. The inclusion of the Ferrari FXX and the launch of the Lotus Evora reflected the programme’s ongoing commitment to featuring both exclusive supercars and significant new releases. Michael Schumacher’s appearance also contributed to the episode’s popularity, sparking discussions in motoring circles and the press.
This episode set the tone for the rest of Series 13, which continued to feature a blend of car reviews, challenges and celebrity guests. The following episodes included highlights such as the Lamborghini Murciélago LP670-4 SV and the Teenage Car Challenge, as well as a Panamera road trip and a hot hatch duel.
Related Episodes in Series 13
- Episode 2: Lamborghini Murciélago LP670-4 SV and Teenage Car Challenge
- Episode 4: Panamera Road Trip and Hot Hatch Duel
