The British motoring world is mourning the loss of one of its most distinctive voices. Quentin Willson, the renowned journalist, television presenter, and passionate fuel price campaigner, has died at the age of 69.
Willson passed away on 10th November 2025, leaving behind a legacy that stretched from classic car appreciation to frontline political campaigning. He was best known to millions as the original presenter of the BBC's Top Gear and for his long-running work on Channel 5's Fifth Gear.
From Classic Cars to Prime Time Television
Willson's career began far from the television studio. He initially established himself as a specialist in classic cars, dealing in coveted models like the iconic AC Cobra. His deep, authoritative knowledge and clear passion for automotive history made him a natural for television.
His big break came in 1990 when he became a presenter for the original incarnation of Top Gear. For seven years, his polished presenting style and expertise helped define the programme. Following his departure from the BBC, he became a central figure on the rival show Fifth Gear, where he continued to review cars and dissect the motoring industry for over a decade.
Beyond his screen work, Willson was a prolific writer. He served as the motoring editor for the Sunday Mirror and Daily Mirror and authored numerous books. His writing, like his broadcasting, was known for being both informative and accessible, demystifying the world of cars for the everyday driver.
A Relentless Campaigner for Fair Fuel
In his later years, Willson channelled his profile and energy into a cause that affected millions of Britons: the cost of fuel. He became the public face of the FairFuelUK campaign, founded in 2011 by Howard Cox.
Willson was not a silent figurehead. He lobbied politicians in Westminster with tireless determination, presenting detailed economic arguments against high fuel duty. He argued that excessive taxes were crippling families, small businesses, and the economy. His efforts were widely credited with preventing further fuel duty rises and securing numerous freezes.
Howard Cox, founder of FairFuelUK, paid a heartfelt tribute, stating that Willson's "relentless campaigning saved drivers billions of pounds." He was remembered not just as a motoring expert, but as a champion for the motorist.
A Legacy of Passion and Principle
Quentin Willson's life was defined by a genuine love for cars and a strong sense of social justice. He seamlessly blended the glamour of classic car collecting with the gritty reality of political activism.
He is survived by his wife and three children. Tributes have poured in from across the motoring and media industries, celebrating a man who was both a respected authority and a fierce advocate for the public. His unique voice and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on British motoring culture and consumer rights.
