OFF-ROAD vehicles featuring in the last ever episode of Top Gear presented by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May are on display at the National Motor Museum.

In the second half of the programme viewied by 5.8million people, the intrepid trio try to become lifestyle leisure enthusiasts with the help of some incredibly cheap 4x4s.

Restricted to a maximum budget of £250, they bought three massive mileage SUVs.

They then embarked on a series of action-packed challenges that included battling with the Stig’s ‘leisure activity cousin’ and a race with terrifying consequences for the loser.

Jeremy’s 4x4 of choice was a Vauxhall Frontera, extensively modified to a unique ‘lifestyle’ brief and boasting many features inspired by upmarket deep sea fishing boats, such as the white paintwork and extra aerials.

Daily Echo:

Aside from that, the car remains completely standard – except that half of it is missing. Richard’s Jeep Cherokee features a classic 4-litre straight six engine, a selectable four-wheel-drive system and various dings caused by caravans.

This vehicle has been modified in a subtly unsubtle fashion, inspired by woodsmen of the Yukon, Doomsday preppers of Utah and a man who likes everything American – although he lives near Ross-on-Wye.

James favoured a Mitsubishi Shogun Pinin which he drove – unintentionally – into a large, water-filled trench with evidence of this excursion shown in the damp and misty headlights.

You may also appreciate May’s revamped colour scheme which was inspired by wetsuits of the 80s.

The SUVs join a whole host of vehicles at Beaulieu created by the Top Gear presenters for some of their most ambitious challenges.

After the episode aired, an emotional Clarkson, who was sacked for punching a producer in a row over steak, apologised to fans for the trio’s departure from the show.

Daily Echo: Jeremy Clarkson takes the exit road in final Top Gear episode

The show will return with new host Chris Evans next year.

Evans has called on Top Gear fans to send in short audition clips to join him as a co-host on the revamped show.

At the Beaulieu attraction, Enter the ‘Enormodrome’ recreates the feel of the Top Gear studio with regular features from the programme including the Cool Wall.

Visitors can also watch behind-the-scenes footage of the Top Gear production zone and clips from some of the show's best moments.

World of Top Gear can be seen as part of a visit, which also includes the National Motor Museum, Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey.

It is open every day, except Christmas Day, from 10am. For more information telephone 01590 612345 or visit www.beaulieu.co.uk