British motoring journalist & television presenter Quentin Willson has died at age of 68
British motoring journalist and television presenter Quentin Willson has died at the age of 68

Quentin Willson
Life and Career
Quentin Willson was born on 23 July 1957 in Leicester, England. He rose to prominence as a presenter of the original version of Top Gear on the BBC during 1991–2001, where he became known for his expertise on used cars and his engaging style.
After his time on Top Gear, he went on to present shows such as Fifth Gear, Britain’s Worst Drivers and The Car’s the Star.
He was also a passionate campaigner for motorists’ rights and clean-vehicle technology. His campaigns included FairFuelUK (advocating for lower fuel duty) and later FairCharge (working toward making electric vehicles more accessible).
His Passing
The family announced that he died peacefully on 8 November 2025 after a short battle with lung cancer. In their statement they described him as “a true national treasure” who “brought the joy of motoring, from combustion to electric, into our living rooms.”
Legacy and Tributes
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Colleagues and friends of Willson’s paid affectionate tribute: for example, fellow presenter Jeremy Clarkson posted that “we had some laughs over the years. Properly funny man.”
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Others noted his forward-looking support for electric vehicles long before many peers, citing his early advocacy of the GM EV1 as proof he was “always ahead of the curve.”
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Beyond his television work, his writing (e.g., for the Sunday Mirror and Classic Cars magazine) and his campaigning made a tangible impact on consumer rights and the motoring industry.
Personal
Quentin Willson is survived by his wife Michaela, his children, and grandchildren. The family have asked for privacy as they prepare funeral arrangements.
In Summary
Quentin Willson was more than a familiar television face—he was a passionate motoring advocate, a bridge between car-culture and mainstream audiences, and an early voice pushing for the transition toward electric vehicles. His sudden departure leaves a significant gap in the world of motoring journalism and broadcasting.
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