It’s been talked about for years, and after several false starts, a US version of the BBC’s brilliant Top Gear program has finally been made for North American audiences.

Airing on Nov 21, 2010 on the History Channel, the US show features a familiar format with three presenters, high production values and a studio audience.

Tanner Foust is the glue that holds it all together. His ability behind the wheel is well documented in various Hollywood stunts as well as rally, drift and time attack competitions. He also has a regular show on Speed TV and is very comfortable in front of the camera.

He’s joined by comedian and actor Adam Ferrara, who has similar confidence in front of the camera, although his skills as a wheel-man have yet to be proven.

Thirdly, we have Rutledge Wood who has appeared on various NASCAR shows on Speed but who probably has most to prove.

During the recent SEMA aftermarket show in Las Vegas, we had the opportunity to meet the team and view several complete segments from forthcoming shows.

Of course, the biggest problem for Top Gear USA is Top Gear. The UK show is so good, so balanced, so original that anybody following in its footsteps seems doomed to failure.

The good news is that from the footage we saw, TGUSA seems to be on the right track, thanks to direct input from the British production team.

While the chemistry between the presenters seemed slightly forced at times, we’re sure they will relax as the series continues. We also hope they develop their own personalities and rapport, rather than trying to ape the British trio.

Fortunately, we can overlook the marginally stilted exchanges because the filming is first rate. We were treated to a Lamborghini race, an attack helicopter hunt and a downhill skier race. Each film used multiple angles, sharp editing and gave a great sense of the speed and excitement.

Whether they can continue to produce such slick footage and clever ideas remains to be seen. We really hope they don’t simply re-make the British plots. But on the face of what we saw that night, Top Gear USA will have a regular spot on our DVR series recordings.