Amazon’s decision to completely renew the lineup of The Grand Tour hosts has become one of the most talked-about events in the world of automotive shows. After bidding farewell to Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May, the platform is now betting on a new generation to stay relevant and capture the attention of younger viewers. This move could change not only the show’s format but also the entire landscape of automotive entertainment programs.
New faces
In 2026, viewers will meet three new hosts: Thomas Holland, James Engelsman, and Francis Bourgeois. Fans of the YouTube channel Throttle House are already familiar with these names. Over the past few years, Holland and Engelsman have turned their project into one of the most popular car channels, blending humor, lively debates, and top-notch production. Their style is more than simple reviews—it’s a full-fledged show with improvisation and a genuine passion for cars.
Francis Bourgeois is a special figure. He rose to fame thanks to viral train videos filmed with a quirky camera mounted to his forehead. His eccentricity and pure joy for every locomotive have made him a favorite among millions on TikTok and Instagram. Now, he’s expected to bring a fresh perspective and add a bit of chaos to the familiar dynamic of The Grand Tour.
Amazon’s strategy
Choosing new hosts is more than just an attempt to surprise the audience. Amazon is clearly aiming to attract a younger demographic, as the show’s original cast is associated with a generation that grew up on traditional television. In recent years, interest in automotive shows has shifted toward short videos and social media, where young bloggers set the trends. By inviting Holland, Engelsman, and Bourgeois, the company hopes to draw viewers from among fans of digital content.
However, despite the change in hosts, the show’s format will remain familiar. The production will be handled by Studio Lambert, known for projects like The Traitors and Squid Game: The Challenge. This promises spectacle, dynamism, and high-quality visuals, which is especially important for fans of The Grand Tour’s distinct style.
Audience reaction
The announcement of new hosts sparked a storm of emotions among fans. Some viewers welcomed the news with enthusiasm, believing the show was long overdue for fresh blood. Others fear that without the signature chemistry of Clarkson, Hammond, and May, the show will lose its soul. Heated debates broke out on social networks: some are confident the new hosts can surprise, while others predict failure.
Francis Bourgeois’s participation raises the most questions. His experience is not with cars, but with trains, leaving some viewers skeptical about whether he can fit naturally into the format. Nevertheless, unexpected choices often become the key to success, and Amazon clearly isn’t afraid to take risks.
Geography of adventures
The seventh season of The Grand Tour promises to maintain the scale and grandeur of its journeys. Filming will take place in diverse locations around the globe, from the sands of Angola to the bustling streets of Malaysia and the high-speed roads of California. This variety of settings highlights the show’s ambitions and its determination to impress viewers not only with new faces, but also with extraordinary routes.
Each episode will be a standalone story where the hosts face extreme conditions, technical challenges, and unique cultural features of different countries. The producers promise to keep a balance of humor, adrenaline, and informative moments, so as not to disappoint either loyal fans or newcomers.
The show’s future
Whether the new hosts can replicate the original trio’s success remains an open question. Holland and Engelsman have proven they can create engaging content for millions of viewers. Bourgeois is a wild card, but his charisma and unconventional approach could become the highlight of the season. In any case, Amazon does not intend to abandon its most successful franchise and is ready to invest resources in its development.
The premiere of the new season is scheduled for 2026, and the show will be available in more than 240 countries. This underlines the project’s global ambitions and the confidence that automotive adventures remain in demand even in the era of digital transformation.
Jeremy Clarkson is an iconic figure in the world of automotive shows. His wit, sarcasm, and talent for creating dramatic moments turned Top Gear and The Grand Tour into global hits. Over the years, he developed a unique style that has inspired an entire generation of hosts and bloggers. Despite his departure from The Grand Tour, Clarkson continues to influence the industry, and his name remains synonymous with bold experiments and dynamic emotions on screen.
