Adam Corrola & Top Gear

[Echo Leader]

I don't doubt that Carolla can be irreverent, he might be a great choice. The issue is going to be a network, which gets maybe millions of dollars in advertizing from the auto manufacturers, allowing him to say something that's perhaps completely true but wholly derogatory as well. I can imagine an episode or two of uncensored honesty, followed by tight restrictions. They might have some funny skits and stuff, but I doubt we'll really get truly open reviews. The manufacturers are pretty uncool about brutal honesty. I think The Truth About Cars was banned by a make or two from their press vehicles because TTAC was opinionated about the styling. A subjective measure.

[DaveC]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Echo Leader I don't doubt that Carolla can be irreverent, he might be a great choice. The issue is going to be a network, which gets maybe millions of dollars in advertizing from the auto manufacturers, allowing him to say something that's perhaps completely true but wholly derogatory as well. I can imagine an episode or two of uncensored honesty, followed by tight restrictions. They might have some funny skits and stuff, but I doubt we'll really get truly open reviews. The manufacturers are pretty uncool about brutal honesty. I think The Truth About Cars was banned by a make or two from their press vehicles because TTAC was opinionated about the styling. A subjective measure.

[Echo Leader]

Exactly so. Now I doubt that NBC or any US network is willing to make a commitment to the concept of USTG that:
1) the network will become independent of auto ad dollars
and
2) allocate a budget such that the show can buy cars for wholly unfettered reviewing once they are banned by the makers from fleet cars