Despite being on of the most popular (and presumably profitable) globally syndicated shows in UK history, Top Gear has been told to cut back on super cars this year due to the great recession.

Hosts Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May have been ordered to downsize because of BBC spending cuts, and to reflect the changing interests of viewers who can no longer afford luxury vehicles.

The Daily Star reports that plans to feature the likes of a Lamborghini, Ferrari and a Porsche have been axed, and will likely be replaced by segments showing smaller, cheaper and greener cars.

Clarkson had previously vowed to ignore the cuts, and in previous series has mocked suggestions that the show cut back on super cars by featuring more super cars.