As of 2025, the automotive content scene is dominated by a mix of veteran creators, emerging influencers, and media brands. The following list ranks the top 25 figures based on combined digital influence (with a heavy emphasis on YouTube presence), audience size, engagement, and cultural relevance. These creators largely cater to U.S. audiences, though a few global names are included due to their significant reach in the U.S. market. Each entry includes a brief bio, their primary niche, any notable controversies, why they resonate with fans, their estimated total audience, current audience trend, and links to their main platforms.
Supercar Blondie (Alexandra Hirschi) – An Australian-born influencer based in Dubai, she rose to fame showcasing ultra-luxury and exotic cars on social media. Starting around 2016, her career skyrocketed by giving fans an up-close look at supercars, concept cars, and luxury lifestyle experiences.
Market: Primarily high-end luxury and exotic cars, with an entertainment twist (think hypercars, one-off prototypes, and car culture vlogs).
Controversies: None major – her content occasionally draws mild criticism from purists for being more flashy entertainment than deep automotive analysis, but she maintains a positive public image.
Why she appeals: Supercar Blondie’s enthusiastic personality and access to rare vehicles offer aspirational escapism. She brings a friendly, “insider” perspective to a world usually behind velvet ropes, which captivates a broad audience beyond just car enthusiasts.
Audience: Approximately 50+ million followers across platforms (around 16M on YouTube, 17M on Instagram, and a massive Facebook and TikTok following), making her one of the most-followed car personalities in the world. Her audience trend is stable – she’s maintained huge growth from 2018-2021 and continues to engage a wide global fanbase.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook • X • Official Site
Scotty Kilmer – A Texas-based mechanic-turned-YouTuber with over 55 years of car repair experience. He began on local TV in the 1990s and started YouTube in the late 2000s, delivering daily videos packed with car maintenance advice and opinions.
Market: DIY auto repair and consumer advice. He focuses on helping everyday car owners with tips, troubleshooting, and industry commentary (often praising reliable makes like Toyota and warning against “money pit” cars).
Controversies: Scotty is known for his unfiltered takes and hyperbolic titles – for example, bluntly claiming certain cars are “the worst” – which sometimes sparks debates. He’s occasionally criticized for clickbait and strong brand biases, but has no serious personal scandals.
Why he appeals: His no-nonsense, everyman presentation (often filming in his garage with a hand-held camera) and wealth of knowledge make viewers feel like they’re getting honest advice from a trusty neighborhood mechanic. He’s entertainingly candid and humorous, which turns otherwise dry car tips into binge-worthy content.
Audience: Roughly 12 million across platforms (over 5 million YouTube subscribers with 3+ billion views, plus 1.8M Facebook followers and a growing TikTok presence). His YouTube channel drives the majority of his influence. The audience trend is stable – he enjoyed explosive growth in recent years and continues to sustain high view counts with daily uploads.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook • X
ChrisFix – A New Jersey-based automotive DIY guru famous for his step-by-step repair videos. Chris (who long kept his face hidden behind the camera) started the channel in 2013 and quickly became the go-to source for learning how to fix cars at home.
Market: Hands-on car maintenance and modification tutorials. From changing brakes and oil to restoring cloudy headlights or even engine swaps, he covers a wide range of how-to content for everyday cars.
Controversies: None – ChrisFix is notably family-friendly and drama-free. He maintains an extremely positive reputation (he even carefully hides personal details to keep the focus on content).
Why he appeals: His videos are thorough but easy to follow, using clear camera angles and simple language. Viewers love that they can save money and gain confidence by following his tutorials. ChrisFix’s approachable teaching style and catchy phrases (“Hey guys, ChrisFix here!”) have built a loyal community of DIY enthusiasts.
Audience: Around 10–12 million in total reach (his YouTube channel boasts ~9.5M subscribers and over 1.6 billion views; additionally, he has a few hundred thousand followers on Instagram, and over 2.5M on TikTok where he shares quick tips). His audience trend is stable – although he uploads less frequently now, his evergreen repair videos continue to attract new viewers and keep subscriber growth steady.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook • X
Doug DeMuro – An American automotive reviewer and entrepreneur known for his quirky and detailed car reviews. Doug started as a blogger and Autotrader columnist, then shifted to YouTube around 2013. He’s famous for reviewing everything from supercars to bizarre old models, always highlighting each vehicle’s “quirks and features.”
Market: Car reviews (mix of new consumer cars, high-end exotics, and oddball collectibles). He presents factual information with a humorous twist and rates cars on his self-devised “DougScore.”
Controversies: Doug is virtually controversy-free; at most, some enthusiasts debate his DougScore or jest about his fascination with minutiae (like weird glovebox designs). He’s built a reputation as an affable, honest reviewer.
Why he appeals: His style balances entertainment and information perfectly – viewers learn a lot about the car while also laughing at his witty observations. Doug’s genuine enthusiasm for even the strangest vehicles is infectious. He’s also relatable; his reviews feel like a friend excitedly showing you a car in person.
Career twist: In 2020, he founded the Cars & Bids auction platform, blending his influence with entrepreneurship (a move that gained industry attention but not in a negative way).
Audience: About 6–7 million combined followers (over 5.5M on his main YouTube channel, plus another 1M on his secondary channel and a few hundred thousand on social media). His reach further extends via Cars & Bids promotions. The audience trend is upward – his channel continues to grow, and his brand has expanded thanks to the success of his car auction business.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • X • Cars & Bids
Donut Media – A Los Angeles-based digital media brand (founded 2015) that has become a powerhouse for millennial and Gen Z car content. Fronted by charismatic hosts like James Pumphrey and Nolan Sykes, Donut creates a variety of series, from history lessons (“Up to Speed”) and technical explainers (“Science Garage”) to car comparisons and sketch comedy.
Market: Broad automotive entertainment and education. They cover JDM culture, American muscle, motorsports history, DIY mods – essentially everything car-related – delivered in a fast-paced, humor-heavy style.
Controversies: Donut has largely avoided scandal. In 2020, one of their hosts departed (initially causing fan speculation), but it was handled quietly. Their content occasionally gets called out for minor factual errors or goofy exaggeration, but there’s no significant drama attached to the brand.
Why they appeal: Donut makes learning about cars fun and extremely accessible. Their memes and catchphrases (“MO POWA BABY!”) have become part of car enthusiast culture. The team’s high energy, genuine camaraderie, and clever writing keep viewers engaged, whether it’s a deep dive into a car’s history or a lighthearted challenge with their project cars.
Audience: Roughly 8+ million followers across platforms (about 6.3M on YouTube, 2M on Instagram, and a strong TikTok and Facebook presence as well). Engagement is high, with many videos earning millions of views. The brand’s audience is trending up, thanks to continuous new series and the popularity of automotive memes in social media.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook • X- WhistlinDiesel (Cody Detwiler) – An American YouTuber known for pushing vehicles to destructive extremes. Hailing from rural Indiana, WhistlinDiesel started with videos of himself abusing pickup trucks and has since escalated to outrageous stunts like sinking a $100k sports car or putting giant tractor wheels on a supercar.
Market: Extreme off-road and stunt content, often involving trucks, tractors, and occasionally high-end cars – essentially “vehicle torture tests” as entertainment.
Controversies: WhistlinDiesel is no stranger to controversy. He’s been in legal trouble (notably charged in 2022 for driving a modified off-road vehicle in protected Gulf waters), and his content often angers car lovers when he gleefully destroys rare or expensive machines (e.g., shooting a Ferrari or demolishing a vintage Audi). In early 2021, he survived a serious accident after a flying truck part from a failed stunt hit him – he shared the incident with fans, which only added to his notoriety. He’s also had public feuds with other creators and even TikTok (he’s had multiple TikTok accounts banned due to his content).
Why he appeals: For many (especially younger viewers), he’s the embodiment of living without limits – doing the crazy things to cars that most people wouldn’t dare. His content is unpredictable and adrenaline-fueled, which creates shock value and shareability. Fans find him authentic and bold, while critics’ outrage often only amplifies his fame.
Audience: Approximately 10 million across platforms (around 6M YouTube subscribers, 3M Instagram followers, and a couple million more via TikTok and Facebook, though platform bans have made his exact TikTok count fluctuate). His engagement per video is enormous. The audience trend is rising – every bold stunt attracts new viewers, and he has built a sort of cult following that eagerly awaits his next big spectacle.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook 
carwow (Mat Watson) – A UK-based car review channel that has gained international popularity, including a substantial U.S. audience, thanks to its addictive drag-race videos and comprehensive car reviews. Mat Watson, a former automotive journalist, is the face of the channel and the Chief Content Officer of carwow (a car buying platform).
Market: New car reviews and performance shootouts. Carwow is especially known for multi-car drag races (e.g. supercars vs superbikes, Teslas vs Lamborghinis) filmed with high production value. They also review everyday cars and do consumer advice videos, but the drag races are their viral hook.
Controversies: Largely very professional. The most notable “drama” has been in the form of fan debates – for instance, Tesla enthusiasts sometimes accuse Mat of bias if a Tesla loses a drag race or is critiqued. In 2023, some Tesla fans on forums claimed carwow favored certain brands in comparisons, but there’s no evidence of foul play and Mat often directly addresses such concerns with transparency.
Why they appeal: Carwow strikes an excellent balance between informative and entertaining. Mat’s presenting style is witty, down-to-earth, and clear. The drag races and quirky challenges (like testing if an off-road SUV can tow a plane) are hugely shareable and often trend on YouTube. Viewers also appreciate that Mat will test cars to their limits and provide honest verdicts, which helps buyers and satisfies enthusiasts’ curiosity.
Audience: An estimated 9–10 million globally on their English channel and social media (the YouTube channel has ~7–8M subscribers on the English channel alone, with additional followers on spin-off channels in other languages, plus around 1M on Instagram and a growing TikTok). U.S. viewers make up a significant chunk of their YouTube audience. The trend is upward, as carwow’s content remains must-watch for car fans and car shoppers alike.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook • X • Official Site
TheStradman (James Condon) – An American supercar vlogger from Utah, Stradman went from living in his car to owning a dream garage of exotics, all documented on YouTube. He started his channel in the early 2010s while he was still a financially struggling car fan, and viewers have followed his journey to success.
Market: Supercar lifestyle and vlogging. He features modern exotics (Bugattis, Lamborghinis, Ferraris), aftermarket builds (like widebody kits and crazy wraps), and personal life events – all through daily-style vlogs.
Controversies: James keeps things pretty clean. He had a public falling out with another YouTuber, Parker of Vehicle Virgins, a few years back (stemming from personal disagreements and some social media jabs), but Stradman himself avoided direct drama on his channel. In 2021, a neighbor dispute over the many cars at his home led to a lawsuit (with neighbors complaining about noise and traffic from his collection); this was a local news item and he addressed it calmly with fans. Overall, he’s not known for negative incidents or outrageous behavior.
Why he appeals: Stradman’s content is often described as “feel-good.” He’s upbeat, genuine, and clearly living his passion – that authenticity endears him to fans. Many viewers find his rags-to-riches story inspiring; he went from a humble beginning to buying hypercars like the Bugatti Veyron, and he shares the experience in a down-to-earth way. His vlogs mix attainable moments (cheap car mods, road trips) with aspirational ones (taking delivery of a purple Lamborghini), allowing a wide audience to connect with him.
Audience: Roughly 5–6 million followers in total (about 4M on YouTube, 1M on Instagram, and additional reach on TikTok with ~3.8M followers there). His videos often trend in the automotive category on YouTube. The audience trend is stable to slightly up – he saw massive growth around 2018–2020 and continues to gain viewers as he diversifies his car collection and content (including building a mega garage in recent content).
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook • X
Hoonigan – More than just a person, Hoonigan is a brand and media team synonymous with tire-shredding action. Co-founded by the late rally icon Ken Block, Hoonigan’s YouTube channel and social platforms showcase drifting, racing, and custom car builds, all with an edgy, motorsport-driven flair.
Market: Extreme motorsports and car culture. Hoonigan produces series like “Daily Transmission,” head-to-head drag races in “This vs That,” and of course the world-famous Gymkhana viral videos (highly cinematic stunt driving sequences in crazy custom cars). The content features professional drifters, rally drivers, and mechanics turning wrenches on high-horsepower machines.
Controversies: Historically, the biggest “controversies” were tied to founder Ken Block’s Top Gear segment outtakes or city officials occasionally objecting to the street closures for Gymkhana shoots – but these were minor. A somber moment for the brand came in January 2023 when Ken Block tragically died in a snowmobile accident. While not a controversy, his passing was a huge moment that shook the car community and raised questions about Hoonigan’s future direction. Since then, Hoonigan has carried on, dedicating content to Ken’s legacy and continuing with other talent (like Travis Pastrana stepping in for Gymkhana 2020–2022). Overall, Hoonigan has maintained a positive, if rebellious, image – their content glorifies “hooning” (doing burnouts, doughnuts, etc.), which some critics say encourages reckless behavior, but they typically perform stunts in controlled environments.
Why they appeal: Hoonigan delivers adrenaline and authenticity. Car enthusiasts who love drifting, drag racing, and loud custom cars are drawn to the brand’s “for enthusiasts, by enthusiasts” spirit. The production quality is high (especially on tentpole projects like Gymkhana), yet it feels approachable – the Hoonigan Garage segments feel like you’re hanging out with the crew. They’ve also cultivated a strong subculture; fans proudly wear Hoonigan merchandise as a badge of being part of this automotive rebel community.
Audience: An estimated 10 million across all platforms. The main Hoonigan YouTube channel has about 5 million subscribers, and there are several sub-channels (like Hoonigan Project Cars) and spin-offs. On Instagram, the brand has around 3M followers, and the Facebook page is also sizeable. Individual personalities (like Ken Block’s own accounts, which had millions of followers) contribute to the influence as well. Post-2023, the brand’s social metrics remain stable – they’ve retained their core audience and continue to attract viewers with new series and stunts, though Ken Block’s absence is felt by fans.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook • Official Site
Top Gear – Arguably the most famous car show in the world, Top Gear has evolved into a digital presence alongside its TV history. This BBC flagship automotive program (relaunched in 2002 with Jeremy Clarkson and team, and now with a new set of hosts) has a YouTube channel that archives its best moments and supplements the broadcast content.
Market: All-around automotive entertainment. Top Gear is known for epic supercar reviews, road trip adventures, creative challenges (like building amphibious cars or cheap car races across countries), and a strong dose of humor and cinematography. It covers everything from the fastest hypercars to affordable hatchbacks, presented in a playful, often sarcastic tone.
Controversies: Top Gear’s controversies are legendary. Under Jeremy Clarkson’s era, the show was frequently in hot water for edgy jokes or international incidents (such as the Argentina number-plate controversy in 2014). The biggest scandal was Clarkson’s physical altercation with a producer in 2015, which led to him (and co-hosts Richard Hammond and James May) leaving the show. Since then, the show rebooted with new hosts. More recently, in late 2022, host Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff suffered a serious crash while filming, raising concerns over safety; as of 2023 the BBC put production on hold pending an investigation, leaving the show’s future uncertain. Despite these issues, the brand of Top Gear remains strong.
Why they appeal: Top Gear set the template for blending cars and comedy. The grand visuals, witty banter, and chemistry (especially of the Clarkson/Hammond/May trio, and later the camaraderie of the newer hosts) made car content mainstream entertainment. Even in short YouTube clips, the production value and humor stand out. They have decades of recognizable segments (like “The Stig’s Power Laps” or absurd races like car vs. public transport) that draw viewers in. For many, Top Gear is nostalgia and top-tier car fantasy rolled into one.
Audience: Global reach in the tens of millions. The Top Gear YouTube channel has about 9.3M subscribers, and their Facebook page exceeds 20M followers worldwide. On Instagram, they have around 8M. While live TV viewership in the UK has dropped in recent series, the online presence keeps growing as new generations find classic clips (“Top Gear library content” is a YouTube rabbit hole for many). Currently, the digital audience is stable, with classic content propping up engagement even as the show’s production is in flux.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • X • Official Site
MotorTrend (MotorTrend Channel) – MotorTrend is an American automotive media institution (originating as a magazine in 1949) that successfully expanded into YouTube and streaming. The MotorTrend YouTube channel acts as a hub for various shows and clips, including instrumented car reviews, comparison tests, and series like Head 2 Head, Ignition, and highlights from MotorTrend’s own streaming service.
Market: Broad automotive content with an emphasis on car reviews and enthusiast shows. They cover new car launches (from economy cars to supercars), conduct comparison tests (SUV of the Year, etc.), and also air episodes of popular builds and garage shows (such as Roadkill and Hot Rod Garage after a delay from the MotorTrend+ app). It’s a mix of journalism and entertainment.
Controversies: MotorTrend as a brand stays fairly neutral and professional. Any drama has been minimal – for example, fans were upset when certain beloved shows (like Roadkill) went behind a paywall on the MotorTrend app, but the company later began uploading many episodes to YouTube to appease viewers. Internally, some well-known hosts have come and gone (one instance: the abrupt exit of Jason Cammisa in 2018 raised some eyebrows among fans of his work), but these personnel changes weren’t scandalous publicly.
Why they appeal: MotorTrend leverages its credibility and heritage. Viewers trust their car reviews and comparisons, which often include rigorous testing and expert commentary by seasoned journalists (like Angus MacKenzie, Johnny Lieberman, etc.). At the same time, the channel provides fun via shows that feature project cars, drag races, and road trips. In short, MotorTrend’s digital content caters to both the car buyer looking for solid advice and the petrolhead seeking entertainment.
Audience: Around 7–8 million on YouTube (the MotorTrend Channel has ~7.0M subscribers) and additional reach through MotorTrend’s social media and app. They also have legacy audiences from the magazine and TV partnerships. The audience trend is stable, with a gradual shift from print/TV to digital. They continue to grow online by cross-posting content from their subscription service and engaging the YouTube community with timely reviews.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • X • Official Site
Jay Leno’s Garage – Legendary comedian and former late-night host Jay Leno turned his personal automotive passion into a successful web and TV series. Since retiring from The Tonight Show, Jay has devoted much of his time to Jay Leno’s Garage, where he showcases his vast collection (over 180 cars and 160 motorcycles) and other notable vehicles.
Market: Classic cars, vintage motorcycles, and modern supercars – essentially automotive history and enthusiasm across the board. Episodes often feature Jay hands-on with a steam car from 1906 one week and driving the latest electric hypercar the next. The tone is informative yet light, relying on Jay’s deep knowledge and humor.
Controversies: Jay Leno himself is lightly controversial at times in the comedy world, but in the car world he’s well-respected. In late 2022 he had a garage accident (a flash fire while working on a car) that left him with burns – he addressed it openly and even made jokes about it; and in early 2023 he had a motorcycle crash. These incidents garnered media attention but weren’t caused by wrongdoing. On a show note, CNBC canceled the TV version of Jay Leno’s Garage in 2022 as the network shifted strategy, but Jay continues to produce content for YouTube. No notable drama has affected his automotive ventures, aside from him occasionally apologizing for old jokes made outside the car realm.
Why he appeals: Jay Leno brings a uniquely genuine enthusiasm and encyclopedic memory to his presentations. He’s like the ultimate curator of automotive stories – viewers tune in to see rare vehicles that they might not find anywhere else, and to hear Jay swap tales with other collectors, engineers, or celebrity car aficionados. His comedic timing and easygoing interviewing style make the content accessible even to those who aren’t hardcore gearheads. Many fans also appreciate that Jay isn’t doing it for ratings or views – he genuinely lives this hobby, and that authenticity shines through.
Audience: Around 5–6 million followers across platforms. The YouTube channel has ~3.8M subscribers, and millions more have watched clips via syndication on other platforms (Facebook, etc.). Jay’s audience skews a bit older and very international (his name recognition draws in general viewers). The trend is stable, though new content output has slowed slightly due to his accidents. His library of videos remains popular for evergreen viewing, and he continues to occasionally drop new car features on YouTube.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • X • Official Site
Adam LZ (Adam Lizotte-Zeisler) – A former BMX rider turned drift racer and automotive YouTuber, Adam LZ has made a name in both the digital content world and professional motorsports. He began posting BMX trick videos in the early 2010s, then around 2015 transitioned more into car projects as his personal interest shifted to modifying and drifting cars.
Market: Drifting, JDM car builds, and tuner culture. Adam’s channel features everything from building high-horsepower Nissan Silvia drift cars and restoring rotary Mazdas, to behind-the-scenes vlogs of Formula Drift events. He also showcases his expansive car collection (he owns a variety of Japanese sports cars, some exotics, and runs the LZ Compound – a facility in Florida for car projects and drift practice).
Controversies: Adam LZ generally stays away from internet drama. His personal life did come into the spotlight when he went through a divorce in 2018; given his and his ex-wife’s online presence, it caused a stir among fans, but he handled it privately and maturely. In the car realm, he had a minor controversy when he first joined Formula Drift with RTR Motorsports in 2020 – some critics questioned if he earned the spot via skill or fame. However, he proved himself on track over subsequent seasons, and any doubt subsided, especially after he secured his first FD event win in 2023.
Why he appeals: Adam brings youthful energy and credibility. He’s part of the car community as both a fan and a participant – one day he’s wrenching on a project car in a garage, another day he’s door-to-door with professional drifters in competition. This dual identity keeps a wide audience engaged: DIY enthusiasts enjoy his build videos, while racing fans follow his progression in Formula Drift. Moreover, his background in creating YouTube content means he’s excellent at filming and explaining the technical aspects in an approachable way. He’s also big on collaborations, often working with other YouTubers and racing drivers, which broadens his appeal.
Audience: Roughly 5 million across platforms. On YouTube he has about 3.8M subscribers, and his Instagram sits around 1.7M followers. He also streams on occasion and has a significant merch following through his brand LZMFG. The audience trend is upward, boosted by his motorsport success – he’s converting some traditional racing fans into YouTube subscribers and vice versa. As he continues to innovate (for example, recently acquiring and reviving an abandoned race track in Florida), his influence only grows.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook • X
Cleetus McFarland (Garrett Mitchell) – A charismatic figure in the automotive YouTube scene, Cleetus McFarland is an alter-ego created by Garrett Mitchell to embody over-the-top American car culture (“Cleetus” often sports a mullet and aviators as part of the gag). After first appearing on the drag racing channel 1320Video, Cleetus spun off into his own channel in 2017.
Market: American muscle, drag racing, and automotive mayhem. Cleetus’s content ranges from crazy project builds (like “Leroy,” a Corvette with no body that became a 8-second drag car, or a 3000hp twin-turbo El Camino dubbed “Mullet”) to hosting outrageous events like the “Freedom 500” (a race of beat-up Crown Victoria police cars among YouTubers) and huge burnout competitions. He even bought an old racetrack in Florida – now “Freedom Factory” – to host fan events and races.
Controversies: Cleetus himself is pretty light on controversy. He is generally seen as a positive, fun-loving guy. One point of note: early on, he was closely associated with 1320Video, but as his own channel grew, he amicably branched off (no public drama, just a shift to doing his own production). His events have had accidents (racing is inherently risky – for instance, a big crash during a 2020 burnout contest or when a driver rolled a Crown Vic during a race), but he’s been proactive about safety and transparency with fans when these happen. Another small issue: in 2021 he had to address noise complaints after neighbors near Freedom Factory weren’t thrilled about loud events; he worked on sound mitigation and kept good community relations.
Why he appeals: Cleetus McFarland’s content is often described as “automotive joy.” It’s a mix of high-octane action and goofball humor. Fans love the sense of community he fosters – many of his events involve other creators and give regular folks a chance to participate (through spectator races or attending the shows). His catchphrases (“Hell yeah, brother!”) and patriotic, tongue-in-cheek persona make his videos entertaining even if you’re not a hardcore drag racing fan. Moreover, viewers appreciate the transparency about the cost and effort of his big projects; he shares the victories and the failures in equal measure, which builds trust.
Audience: About 5 million combined followers (he recently surpassed 4.3M on YouTube, plus he has over 800k on the official @cleetusmcfarland Instagram and an additional ~2M on his personal @garrett_1320video Instagram). His Facebook page and live event streams pull significant numbers as well. The audience trend is rising – his channel growth has been strong year over year, and with each large-scale event (like pay-per-view drag racing spectacles) he taps into a wider circle of motorsports fans.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • Official Site
Shmee150 (Tim Burton) – A British car vlogger and one of the original YouTube supercar content creators. Tim Burton, known by his handle Shmee150, has been producing videos since 2010, covering an enviable lifestyle of supercar acquisitions and road trips. Over the years, he went from an enthusiast filming cars on London streets to owning a collection of top-tier vehicles himself (aptly nicknamed the “Shmeemobiles”).
Market: Luxury and exotic cars, especially European supercars and hypercars. Shmee150’s content includes in-depth reviews, first drives of newly launched models, visits to manufacturers and car shows, and extensive road trip vlogs (like the Gumball 3000 rally). He also documents the growth of his personal collection – which in 2025 includes machines like the Ford GT, McLaren Senna, and a Zenvo TSR-S – and even the creation of his own storage facility/museum (“The Shmuseum”).
Controversies: Shmee manages to stay away from drama. He’s very cordial and professional. A mild critique from some corners is that Shmee is relentlessly positive – he rarely says a bad word about a car, leading a few skeptics to question his objectivity. But fans know that’s just his genuine enthusiasm; he tends to focus on a car’s strengths (and if he dislikes something, he states it diplomatically). He was tangentially involved in an incident in 2019 where Ford disapproved of some early Ford GT buyers (including Shmee) flipping their cars – but Tim never sold his GT and followed the ownership rules, so it wasn’t a direct issue for him beyond community chatter.
Why he appeals: Consistency and expertise. Shmee150 uploads very frequently, often daily, and has maintained that pace for years. Viewers always know they can count on him for the latest supercar content. His knowledge of the industry and attention to detail are top-notch – he can recall specs, production numbers, and backstories off the cuff. Additionally, his tone is friendly and polite, making the audience feel included as he tours a collection or unboxes a new car. He doesn’t rely on gimmicks or wild stunts; instead, it’s his sincerity and the sheer cool factor of the cars he features that keep people hooked.
Audience: Around 5 million across platforms. His YouTube channel has ~2.8M subscribers (with over a billion views to date) and his Facebook page surprisingly has a large following (around 2M). Instagram sits at about 2M as well. The audience trend is stable, with slow growth – he already has a saturated share of the supercar niche, but he continuously picks up new fans, especially when a particular car he covers goes viral. His dedication has also built a core loyal fanbase that watches almost everything he posts.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • X • Official Site
Daily Driven Exotics (Damon Fryer & Dave Coulter) – A Canadian duo bringing a blend of supercars and lifestyle vlogging with a decidedly rebellious twist. Daily Driven Exotics (DDE) was founded by Damon Fryer in 2013 with the idea of showcasing exotic cars as they’re meant to be used – not as garage queens, but driven hard on the street every day. Co-hosted by Damon’s friend Dave, DDE’s content centers around their fleet of modified supercars and the adventures (and misadventures) they get into.
Market: High-end exotics with a focus on street driving, custom modifications, and rally events. They feature Lamborghinis, McLarens, Ferraris, etc., often with loud exhausts, wild wraps, and tuned for maximum drama. The pair frequently attend or organize supercar rallies, road trips, and meet-ups, and they’ve also delved into crazy one-off builds (like a twin-turbo Lamborghini Huracán nicknamed “Tire Slayer”).
Controversies: DDE has had a few headline-grabbing moments. They often film encounters with law enforcement – getting pulled over for speeding or loud exhausts is almost a running theme – which some critics say glorifies unsafe driving. Their most notable drama was a feud with fellow YouTuber Vehicle Virgins (Parker Nirenstein) in 2019: insults were exchanged on Instagram, allegations about personal behavior were made, and it became a bit of a soap opera in the YouTube car community. Ultimately, it faded and Damon/Dave moved on, often poking fun at the drama in later videos. Additionally, one DDE car (a heavily modified LaFerrari) caught fire at a gas station in 2020, which, while not caused by wrongdoing, drew viral attention. Generally, DDE embraces a “bad boy” image but tries not to cross serious lines – for instance, they are careful when doing high-speed runs or stunts, often using closed roads or professional drivers where possible.
Why they appeal: They bring an unapologetic sense of fun to supercar ownership. Where others might treat a Lamborghini with kid gloves, DDE is doing burnouts and donuts with theirs. That attitude – combined with Damon’s bold personality and Dave’s sarcastic humor – creates an exciting, reality-TV-like vibe. It’s part aspirational (viewers love seeing hypercars being used daily) and part relatable (they show the mishaps, flat tires, tickets, and huge maintenance bills that come with the territory). Fans also enjoy the chemistry between Damon and Dave; their constant pranks and banter make you feel like part of the crew.
Audience: Roughly 5–6 million across all channels. They have just over 4 million YouTube subscribers, and very active followers on Instagram (~1M on the DDE account, plus hundreds of thousands on Damon’s and Dave’s personal IGs). Many of their YouTube videos easily clear 500k views, with some hitting multi-millions especially when a video involves a big incident. The audience trend is upward, as they consistently escalate their projects (e.g., recently building a street-legal Ferrari F12 drift car) which draws in new viewers. DDE’s expansion into merchandise and even a new headquarters in Los Angeles suggests their brand is still growing.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook • X
Engineering Explained (Jason Fenske) – An American engineer who has become YouTube’s top automotive teacher. Jason Fenske created Engineering Explained in 2011 while in college, and his clear, methodical breakdowns of car technology have since educated millions.
Market: Educational content focusing on the engineering and science behind how cars work. Topics range widely – he’ll tackle “How an engine’s turbocharger increases power,” “The physics of why F1 cars are so fast,” to even broader subjects like tire technology, oil comparisons, or electric vehicle battery tech. He often uses a whiteboard and simple drawings, as well as real car parts, to illustrate concepts.
Controversies: None to speak of. Jason is very careful with facts and tends to stay away from opinionated territory. On occasion, he’ll wade into debates (like EVs vs. gasoline efficiency) but he remains data-driven and fair, so he’s respected across the board. He’s perhaps been playfully teased for being a bit dry or nerdy in presentation – but for his fanbase, that’s a feature, not a bug.
Why he appeals: He fills a crucial niche – answering the “why” and “how” questions that many car enthusiasts have. Jason’s explanations are detailed yet accessible; he doesn’t dumb things down, but he also doesn’t assume you have an engineering degree. This empowers viewers with knowledge that enhances their appreciation of cars. Many aspiring mechanics, engineering students, and curious drivers have credited his videos for expanding their understanding. Additionally, his content has a timeless quality – a video explaining the Otto cycle or how a differential works remains relevant years later – giving his channel longevity.
Audience: Around 4 million subscribers on YouTube, plus a few hundred thousand on Instagram. His videos have cumulatively over half a billion views. The channel’s growth is stable – not viral or fad-driven, just a steady accumulation of followers as new generations of car enthusiasts discover his backlog. He’s also broadened reach by occasionally partnering with automakers for deep dives (e.g., explaining a new tech feature in a car launch), which keeps him visible.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • X
Tavarish (Freddy Hernandez) – A U.S.-based automotive YouTuber known for buying wrecked or neglected exotic cars and restoring them on a shoestring budget. Freddy, who goes by Tavarish (Russian for “comrade,” a nod to his birthplace), started on forums and writing for Jalopnik before focusing on video content around 2015.
Market: Rebuilds and project cars, especially exotic or luxury models that most people would consider lost causes. Tavarish’s channel highlights include restoring a salvaged Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder, fixing up a flood-damaged Ferrari 355, and his most ambitious project to date – bringing a burnt-out McLaren P1 back to life. He also co-hosts the popular Car Trek series (alongside Ed Bolian of VinWiki and Tyler Hoover) which is essentially a YouTube homage to Top Gear’s adventure challenges.
Controversies: Tavarish himself avoids controversy. He’s candid about the struggles in his projects (like admitting when he’s over budget or a fix didn’t work). One notable incident: in 2019 his Lamborghini Murciélago (a kit-car replica used in the Fast & Furious films that he had bought) caught fire and burned down in his garage. This wasn’t due to negligence – it was a freak incident – but it was a very public setback, and he shared the disappointment and rebuild process openly with viewers. Occasionally, some in the community question if certain high-dollar projects are sustainable or “for content,” but Freddy is transparent that many of these cars are long-term endeavors and labors of love (often not financially sensible, which is part of the entertainment).
Why he appeals: Tavarish embodies the DIY ethic and the idea that “no car is unreachable.” He literally takes basket-case supercars – the kind of thing most would write off – and little by little, often with ingenuity and help from friends, brings them back to glory. This underdog story resonates strongly. He’s also very personable: his approach is equal parts informative (teaching viewers about the mechanics of these cars) and narrative-driven (there’s a storyline to each car’s resurrection). Fans feel like they’re along for the ride, experiencing the frustrations and triumphs with him. His participation in Car Trek also shows off his on-screen charisma and chemistry with fellow YouTubers, further endearing him to the audience.
Audience: Around 3.5 million YouTube subscribers and about 400k on Instagram. His reach is amplified by the success of Car Trek (hosted on AutoTempest’s channel and his own) and a podcast he co-hosts. The audience trend is upward, especially after the high-profile McLaren P1 series which attracted a lot of attention from auto media and fans – people are eagerly tuning in to see each chapter of that rebuild.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • X • Car Trek on YouTube
Mighty Car Mods (Marty & Moog) – Hailing from Sydney, Australia, Mighty Car Mods (often abbreviated MCM) is one of YouTube’s longest-running car shows. Childhood friends Marty Mulholland and Blair “Moog” Joscelyne started filming DIY modifications in Marty’s mum’s driveway back in 2008, and over the past 15+ years have grown into international cult favorites among car enthusiasts.
Market: DIY tuning and car modifications, with a focus on relatable project cars (frequently Japanese imports, hatchbacks, and the occasional absurd creations). They’ll do everything from simple stereo installs and engine swaps on their beloved ’90s cars, to wild one-off builds like shoehorning a Honda engine into a lawn mower for racing. MCM is also known for cinematic short films and specials, like road-tripping across Japan or building a car to race supercars on a budget.
Controversies: Virtually none. Marty and Moog are known for being positive and drama-free. In the early days they playfully pushed back against stereotypes (their series often quietly championed the DIY “tuner” over the wealthy supercar owner). If anything, their biggest challenge was Moog’s health scare (he had a serious medical issue around 2015 which they mentioned, pausing content briefly) and balancing increasingly ambitious projects without a huge team. They’ve never been embroiled in community feuds or scandals; they even managed to do a crossover with the BBC Top Gear team in 2019 without any fan negativity – a testament to their likeability.
Why they appeal: Mighty Car Mods combines genuine educational content with humor and cinematic flair. Marty and Moog have a laid-back, brotherly dynamic – they crack jokes, sometimes bicker over whose mod ideas are better (“functional mods vs. cosmetic mods” is a running gag), but it’s clear they love working together. Their production quality is high – Moog is a music producer and scores their episodes, giving even a simple garage project an epic feel. Importantly, they champion the idea that you don’t need a super expensive car to have fun; they’ll happily pit a $3000 tuned shitbox against a Lamborghini in a track battle to show the potential of DIY modifications. This inclusivity and creativity inspire viewers globally.
Audience: About 4 million subscribers on YouTube and a strong following on their own forums and social media (700k on Instagram). They were among the first auto channels to reach 1M subs back in the day and have retained a loyal fanbase. The audience trend is stable – they’re veterans now, and while newer flashy channels have emerged, MCM has a steady viewership that tunes in for each project series they do. Their international fans often credit MCM for getting them into cars in the first place.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • Official Site/Forum
Hoovies Garage (Tyler Hoover) – A former car salesman-turned-writer and YouTuber, Tyler Hoover is known for amassing a collection of cheap luxury and exotic cars that he lovingly calls his “Hooptie Fleet.” His channel centers on the adventures and expenses of owning “the internet’s cheapest” Mercedes, Bentley, Ferrari, etc., and the frequent visits to his mechanic (dubbed “The Car Wizard”) to resurrect them.
Market: Used car buying and long-term ownership, particularly high-end cars bought at rock-bottom prices due to age or condition. Tyler has a knack for finding bargains that come with hidden headaches, and he shares the whole journey – from purchase, to the inevitably long repair invoice, to sometimes selling or swapping for the next project.
Controversies: Hoovie stays away from interpersonal drama. One minor kerfuffle was a VinWiki story in 2019: a guest told a tale that indirectly painted Tyler’s trusted mechanic (the Car Wizard) in a bad light regarding a Ferrari repair. This turned out to be a misunderstanding; Tyler and the Wizard clarified the situation, and VinWiki even took down the segment – it was a rare moment where Tyler had to address community gossip. Aside from that, his content is pretty light-hearted. He did face personal tragedy when one of his friends and fellow YouTubers, Randy from Savage Garage, passed away in 2022 – Tyler paid tribute, but again this wasn’t controversy, just community news.
Why he appeals: Hoovies Garage is often described as “automotive reality-check” entertainment. While many channels show the glamorous side of exotic cars, Tyler shows what happens when you buy the affordable used example – all the gremlins and costs that come with it. His self-deprecating humor (he often calls himself “the Dumbest Automotive YouTuber” for the financial blunders his cars cause) makes the content very funny and relatable. Viewers also genuinely learn about common issues on various models and what it’s like to maintain older luxury cars. Tyler’s on-camera persona is friendly and a bit quirky, and his collaborations in the Car Trek series highlight his wit and knowledge as well.
Audience: About 1.5M YouTube subscribers and a strong secondary following via his writings (he’s written for magazines and has a book). Social media wise, he has a few hundred thousand on Instagram. The channel’s growth is stable – he carved out a niche and has a consistent audience interested in each new “cheap car challenge” he takes on. His Car Trek appearances (3 guys buying cheap exotics for themed challenges) have also broadened his exposure.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • X
HeavyDSparks (Dave Sparks) – A prominent figure in the truck and off-road world, Dave “Heavy D” Sparks first rose to fame on Discovery Channel’s Diesel Brothers TV show, and has since translated that into a colossal YouTube presence. On his HeavyDSparks channel, Dave and his crew (including his business partner Diesel Dave) undertake extreme builds and rescue missions involving big trucks, heavy machinery, and adventure.
Market: Diesel trucks, off-roading, and vehicular rescues. Content includes building monster trucks, overlanding in side-by-sides, recovering vehicles from insane situations (like pulling a sunken bulldozer out of a lake or rescuing stranded people with snow machines). There’s also an entrepreneurial angle, as he often features his companies (DieselSellerz, Sparks Motors) and massive giveaways of custom trucks.
Controversies: The biggest controversy surrounding Heavy D came from environmental law: the “Diesel Brothers” were fined and legally penalized in 2019 for modifying diesel trucks in ways that violated the Clean Air Act (specifically, installing “defeat” devices that bypass emissions). A court ordered them to pay hefty fines and cease such modifications for sale. Dave acknowledged the issue and has since been careful to stay within legal boundaries in his builds showcased to the public. Politically, he’s vocal about his patriotism and occasionally wades into commentary (he’s based in Utah and appeals to a heartland/truck enthusiast demographic), but he generally keeps the content focused on common ground adventures.
Why he appeals: HeavyDSparks content is like if you mixed a off-road reality show with YouTube freedom. The production is high (Dave knows TV, so he carries those skills over), but it’s got the YouTube authenticity and length to really show the whole process of their big projects. People who love big engines and big toys are naturally drawn to it – he’ll do things like turn a military truck into a rolling camper or attempt a world-record jump with a Raptor. Additionally, there’s a feel-good element: many of their recovery missions are helping communities (e.g., bringing supplies in deep snow or saving animals from natural disasters using their equipment). This, plus Dave’s bold, enthusiastic personality, motivates viewers to root for the Heavy D crew.
Audience: Approximately 8 million in total reach. The HeavyDSparks YouTube channel has about 4.3M subscribers, and Dave’s personal Instagram is huge at 4M. They also operate secondary channels (including an Español channel for Spanish-speaking fans) and have a popular presence on Facebook. After leaving traditional TV, their audience on digital has only grown, trending upwards as they tap into a global fanbase for off-road content.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • X • Official Site (merchandise and projects)
Emelia Hartford – A rising star in the automotive scene, Emelia is a multifaceted talent: car builder, racer, actress, and content creator. Based in California, she’s been on YouTube for several years wrenching on her own cars and has broken records in the drag racing world – all while also landing roles in Hollywood (she appears in the 2023 film Gran Turismo and other productions).
Market: High-performance builds and drag racing, with a focus on modern sports cars and muscle cars. Emelia’s channel shows her modifying vehicles like her Chevrolet C8 Corvette (which she famously tuned to be the world’s fastest C8 for a time), a twin-turbo R8, and project cars such as a classic Datsun revival. She mixes in vlog elements, taking viewers to races, tuning sessions, and industry events.
Controversies: Emelia has managed her public image well; there are no major controversies. Like many women in the automotive space, she unfortunately faces some sexist remarks or skepticism online, but she usually addresses it by simply proving critics wrong with her accomplishments. She did have one dramatic engine failure: her record-setting C8 Corvette’s engine catastrophically blew during a dyno run in 2021 – but she handled it with humor and used it as an educational moment about the limits of pushing new tech. Overall, she’s respected for her serious skills behind the wheel and in the garage.
Why she appeals: Emelia brings a refreshing representation to a male-dominated arena, but she’s not defined by that – she’s genuinely as hardcore about cars as they come. Her content is aspirational (builds making huge horsepower, competing in top-level drag events) yet also personal (she shares her learning process, moments of doubt, and the eventual triumphs). Viewers appreciate her authenticity, technical knowledge, and the fact that she often turns wrenches herself on camera. Additionally, her cross-over into mainstream media (like hosting the Netflix show Fastest Car and acting) has broadened her audience: she’s able to pull in general viewers and then hook them with the car content.
Audience: Roughly 5–6 million combined followers. On YouTube she has about 1.8M subscribers. Impressively, her Instagram has climbed to 2M (bolstered by her wider exposure), TikTok around 1.7M, and a Facebook page nearing 1M likes. Her channel’s growth trajectory is upward, as she continues setting records (in 2022 she built one of the world’s quickest new Corvettes) and her entertainment career brings new eyeballs to her automotive passion.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook • X
Goonzquad (Simeon & Eleazar) – Two brothers from Chattanooga, Tennessee who turned their backyard hobby into a YouTube sensation. Known simply as “Goonzquad,” the boys (often referred to by fans as “the Goonzquad brothers”) specialize in rebuilding wrecked cars, particularly sports cars and trucks, and lately even construction equipment and boats – essentially, if it has an engine and they got it at a salvage auction, they’ll fix it.
Market: Car rebuilding/restoration with a DIY, down-home approach. They’ve rebuilt numerous vehicles on their channel: examples include a wrecked Nissan GT-R, a Chevrolet Corvette, multiple Jeeps and pickup trucks, a Ferrari 458, and even a helicopter. They film the entire repair process from towing home a crumpled car to the final paint and detailing.
Controversies: Goonzquad keeps it wholesome. No controversies of note; they’re very family-friendly and avoid profanity or edgy content. The biggest shift on their channel was in 2020 when they started building a house (they documented constructing their own home). Some car-centric viewers were less interested in home-building content, but many enjoyed seeing their skill extend beyond cars. They eventually spun off that content and refocused the main channel on vehicles. Also worth noting: early on, there was curiosity about why they didn’t show their faces – for the first couple of years they filmed without ever appearing on camera, focusing only on the cars. They’ve since revealed themselves more, but this wasn’t controversy, just a stylistic choice that evolved.
Why they appeal: The brothers have an infectious enthusiasm and a “can-do” attitude that resonates particularly with younger viewers and those who dream of working on cars. They are self-taught and learn as they go, which makes their content unintimidating – they make mistakes, they figure things out, and they improve with each project, encouraging viewers that they can do the same. Their genuine sibling camaraderie and occasional pranks add a fun layer to the rebuild videos. Plus, there’s the satisfaction factor: seeing a totaled vehicle go from junkyard condition to looking brand-new by the end of the series is extremely rewarding. They essentially deliver a real-life, unscripted version of something like Overhaulin’, spread across YouTube episodes.
Audience: About 2.7M YouTube subscribers on their main channel and a significant following on Instagram (~600k combined across personal and brand accounts). Their view counts are strong, often hitting 1M+ per build episode, showing a highly engaged fanbase. After diversifying content, they’ve refocused and their audience trend is stable, with signs of a new uptick as they’ve begun some ambitious new projects (like building custom off-roaders). Their humble roots and consistency have built a loyal community that refers to fans as part of the “Goonzquad.”
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • Official Store- Throttle House (Thomas Holland & James Engelsman) – A Canadian car review duo that has rapidly risen in the YouTube ranks thanks to a combination of Top Gear-like cinematic polish and personable humor. Based in the Toronto area, Thomas (Canadian) and James (a Brit in Canada) launched Throttle House in 2018; by 2020 their comparison reviews were going viral among enthusiasts.
Market: New car reviews and comparisons with an enthusiast twist. They cover everything from the latest supercars and sports cars to pickup trucks and electric vehicles. Throttle House is especially known for head-to-head comparisons filmed on track or scenic roads – for instance, pitting a BMW M3 against a Mercedes-AMG C63, or testing a Porsche 911 GT3 versus a Corvette. They also do occasional fun projects (like cheap car challenges or buying interesting used cars to review).
Controversies: None. Thomas and James maintain a very professional yet fun demeanor and haven’t been involved in drama. If anything, they openly commend other creators and sometimes feature cameos (they’ve had folks like Tyler Hoover and even F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo join for guest appearances, all in good spirits). They focus on the cars and their friendship, steering clear of any negative commentary that isn’t about vehicle merits.
Why they appeal: Throttle House strikes a chord for those who miss the charm of classic Top Gear but want it in a digestible YouTube format. The production quality – beautiful camera work, editing, and sound – makes their reviews stand out. More importantly, the duo’s chemistry is fantastic: James often plays the role of the wry British car snob, while Thomas is the practical yet excitable foil; their friendly ribbing and skits (sometimes dressing up in costumes to poke fun at stereotypes of car owners) add entertainment to what could otherwise be dry car tests. Yet, when it comes to analysis, they’re thorough and insightful, giving honest pros and cons. This balance of informative and entertaining is hard to pull off, and they do it consistently.
Audience: Over 3.2M YouTube subscribers, a number that has grown very quickly in the past couple of years. Their view counts per video are impressive, often reaching 1M+ within a few weeks for major reviews. Social media following on Instagram is smaller (~250k) but growing. Their audience trend is rising, as they are now often mentioned in the same breath as established outlets like Carwow or MotorTrend when it comes to video reviews. Automakers have also embraced them, giving press cars and exclusive access, which in turn yields more content.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • Official Site 
VinWiki (Ed Bolian & team) – A unique automotive media platform centered on car storytelling. VinWiki was co-founded by Ed Bolian – a former Lamborghini dealership owner and ex-Cannonball Run record holder – as an app for crowd-sourced car histories, but it’s the VinWiki YouTube channel that truly took off. The format is simple yet engaging: Ed (or sometimes guests) sits in front of a colorful backdrop, narrating fascinating car-related stories, often accompanied by minimal visuals.
Market: Automotive anecdotes and history, crowdsourced from dealers, enthusiasts, and personalities. These are usually 5–15 minute storytime videos. Topics have ranged from Ed’s own wild exploits (like how he drove from NYC to LA in 28 hours to break the Cannonball record) to guests recounting finding hidden supercars, outrageous dealership scams, racing adventures, or celebrity car stories. It’s often first-person narrative and can be anything from hilarious to informative or shocking.
Controversies: Given the nature of storytelling, VinWiki has occasionally had to address the accuracy of certain tales. One example mentioned earlier: a guest told a story implicating Tyler Hoover’s mechanic in a bad job on a Ferrari, which turned out to be misleading – Ed took that video down after the backlash. In general, when minor factual disputes have arisen, Ed has handled them by fact-checking and sometimes inviting other involved parties to share their side. Ed himself is well-liked, though he’s known as a savvy salesman type – something he leans into with charm.
Why they appeal: VinWiki tapped into car enthusiasts’ love for lore and “bench racing” talk. These are the kind of unbelievable stories you’d hear at a car meet or from an old-timer at a garage, now accessible to everyone. The variety is huge – one day it’s someone explaining how they bought and sold a Bugatti for profit, the next it’s an undercover cop sharing how they busted street racers. The channel’s low production needs allow frequent uploads and wide-ranging contributors. Listeners often treat VinWiki videos like a podcast or audiobook, listening to car stories during commutes or wrenching sessions. It scratches the itch for both entertainment and learning little-known automotive history and subculture tidbits.
Audience: Around 1.7M subscribers on YouTube. While smaller than some on this list, VinWiki’s influence is solid in the car community – their videos often spark discussions on Reddit, forums, and beyond. They have a presence on Instagram (~300k) and Ed Bolian’s own notoriety (from Cannonball and Car Trek) adds to the brand. The audience trend is stable; growth has leveled somewhat as the format is niche, but VinWiki has a steady flow of content and has become a staple for many enthusiasts.
Links: YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • X • Official Site (VinWiki app for car histories)
Supercar Blondie (Alexandra Hirschi) – An Australian-born influencer based in Dubai, she rose to fame showcasing ultra-luxury and exotic cars on social media. Starting around 2016, her career skyrocketed by giving fans an up-close look at supercars, concept cars, and luxury lifestyle experiences.
Scotty Kilmer – A Texas-based mechanic-turned-YouTuber with over 55 years of car repair experience. He began on local TV in the 1990s and started YouTube in the late 2000s, delivering daily videos packed with car maintenance advice and opinions. 
ChrisFix – A New Jersey-based automotive DIY guru famous for his step-by-step repair videos. Chris (who long kept his face hidden behind the camera) started the channel in 2013 and quickly became the go-to source for learning how to fix cars at home. 
Doug DeMuro – An American automotive reviewer and entrepreneur known for his quirky and detailed car reviews. Doug started as a blogger and Autotrader columnist, then shifted to YouTube around 2013. He’s famous for reviewing everything from supercars to bizarre old models, always highlighting each vehicle’s “quirks and features.” 
Donut Media – A Los Angeles-based digital media brand (founded 2015) that has become a powerhouse for millennial and Gen Z car content. Fronted by charismatic hosts like James Pumphrey and Nolan Sykes, Donut creates a variety of series, from history lessons (“Up to Speed”) and technical explainers (“Science Garage”) to car comparisons and sketch comedy. 
WhistlinDiesel (Cody Detwiler) – An American YouTuber known for pushing vehicles to destructive extremes. Hailing from rural Indiana, WhistlinDiesel started with videos of himself abusing pickup trucks and has since escalated to outrageous stunts like sinking a $100k sports car or putting giant tractor wheels on a supercar. 
carwow (Mat Watson) – A UK-based car review channel that has gained international popularity, including a substantial U.S. audience, thanks to its addictive drag-race videos and comprehensive car reviews. Mat Watson, a former automotive journalist, is the face of the channel and the Chief Content Officer of carwow (a car buying platform). 
TheStradman (James Condon) – An American supercar vlogger from Utah, Stradman went from living in his car to owning a dream garage of exotics, all documented on YouTube. He started his channel in the early 2010s while he was still a financially struggling car fan, and viewers have followed his journey to success. 
Hoonigan – More than just a person, Hoonigan is a brand and media team synonymous with tire-shredding action. Co-founded by the late rally icon Ken Block, Hoonigan’s YouTube channel and social platforms showcase drifting, racing, and custom car builds, all with an edgy, motorsport-driven flair. 
Top Gear – Arguably the most famous car show in the world, Top Gear has evolved into a digital presence alongside its TV history. This BBC flagship automotive program (relaunched in 2002 with Jeremy Clarkson and team, and now with a new set of hosts) has a YouTube channel that archives its best moments and supplements the broadcast content. 
MotorTrend (MotorTrend Channel) – MotorTrend is an American automotive media institution (originating as a magazine in 1949) that successfully expanded into YouTube and streaming. The MotorTrend YouTube channel acts as a hub for various shows and clips, including instrumented car reviews, comparison tests, and series like Head 2 Head, Ignition, and highlights from MotorTrend’s own streaming service. 
Jay Leno’s Garage – Legendary comedian and former late-night host Jay Leno turned his personal automotive passion into a successful web and TV series. Since retiring from The Tonight Show, Jay has devoted much of his time to Jay Leno’s Garage, where he showcases his vast collection (over 180 cars and 160 motorcycles) and other notable vehicles. 
Adam LZ (Adam Lizotte-Zeisler) – A former BMX rider turned drift racer and automotive YouTuber, Adam LZ has made a name in both the digital content world and professional motorsports. He began posting BMX trick videos in the early 2010s, then around 2015 transitioned more into car projects as his personal interest shifted to modifying and drifting cars. 
Cleetus McFarland (Garrett Mitchell) – A charismatic figure in the automotive YouTube scene, Cleetus McFarland is an alter-ego created by Garrett Mitchell to embody over-the-top American car culture (“Cleetus” often sports a mullet and aviators as part of the gag). After first appearing on the drag racing channel 1320Video, Cleetus spun off into his own channel in 2017. 
Shmee150 (Tim Burton) – A British car vlogger and one of the original YouTube supercar content creators. Tim Burton, known by his handle Shmee150, has been producing videos since 2010, covering an enviable lifestyle of supercar acquisitions and road trips. Over the years, he went from an enthusiast filming cars on London streets to owning a collection of top-tier vehicles himself (aptly nicknamed the “Shmeemobiles”). 
Daily Driven Exotics (Damon Fryer & Dave Coulter) – A Canadian duo bringing a blend of supercars and lifestyle vlogging with a decidedly rebellious twist. Daily Driven Exotics (DDE) was founded by Damon Fryer in 2013 with the idea of showcasing exotic cars as they’re meant to be used – not as garage queens, but driven hard on the street every day. Co-hosted by Damon’s friend Dave, DDE’s content centers around their fleet of modified supercars and the adventures (and misadventures) they get into. 
Engineering Explained (Jason Fenske) – An American engineer who has become YouTube’s top automotive teacher. Jason Fenske created Engineering Explained in 2011 while in college, and his clear, methodical breakdowns of car technology have since educated millions. 
Tavarish (Freddy Hernandez) – A U.S.-based automotive YouTuber known for buying wrecked or neglected exotic cars and restoring them on a shoestring budget. Freddy, who goes by Tavarish (Russian for “comrade,” a nod to his birthplace), started on forums and writing for Jalopnik before focusing on video content around 2015. 
Mighty Car Mods (Marty & Moog) – Hailing from Sydney, Australia, Mighty Car Mods (often abbreviated MCM) is one of YouTube’s longest-running car shows. Childhood friends Marty Mulholland and Blair “Moog” Joscelyne started filming DIY modifications in Marty’s mum’s driveway back in 2008, and over the past 15+ years have grown into international cult favorites among car enthusiasts. 
Hoovies Garage (Tyler Hoover) – A former car salesman-turned-writer and YouTuber, Tyler Hoover is known for amassing a collection of cheap luxury and exotic cars that he lovingly calls his “Hooptie Fleet.” His channel centers on the adventures and expenses of owning “the internet’s cheapest” Mercedes, Bentley, Ferrari, etc., and the frequent visits to his mechanic (dubbed “The Car Wizard”) to resurrect them. 
HeavyDSparks (Dave Sparks) – A prominent figure in the truck and off-road world, Dave “Heavy D” Sparks first rose to fame on Discovery Channel’s Diesel Brothers TV show, and has since translated that into a colossal YouTube presence. On his HeavyDSparks channel, Dave and his crew (including his business partner Diesel Dave) undertake extreme builds and rescue missions involving big trucks, heavy machinery, and adventure. 
Emelia Hartford – A rising star in the automotive scene, Emelia is a multifaceted talent: car builder, racer, actress, and content creator. Based in California, she’s been on YouTube for several years wrenching on her own cars and has broken records in the drag racing world – all while also landing roles in Hollywood (she appears in the 2023 film Gran Turismo and other productions). 
Goonzquad (Simeon & Eleazar) – Two brothers from Chattanooga, Tennessee who turned their backyard hobby into a YouTube sensation. Known simply as “Goonzquad,” the boys (often referred to by fans as “the Goonzquad brothers”) specialize in rebuilding wrecked cars, particularly sports cars and trucks, and lately even construction equipment and boats – essentially, if it has an engine and they got it at a salvage auction, they’ll fix it. 
Throttle House (Thomas Holland & James Engelsman) – A Canadian car review duo that has rapidly risen in the YouTube ranks thanks to a combination of Top Gear-like cinematic polish and personable humor. Based in the Toronto area, Thomas (Canadian) and James (a Brit in Canada) launched Throttle House in 2018; by 2020 their comparison reviews were going viral among enthusiasts. 
VinWiki (Ed Bolian & team) – A unique automotive media platform centered on car storytelling. VinWiki was co-founded by Ed Bolian – a former Lamborghini dealership owner and ex-Cannonball Run record holder – as an app for crowd-sourced car histories, but it’s the VinWiki YouTube channel that truly took off. The format is simple yet engaging: Ed (or sometimes guests) sits in front of a colorful backdrop, narrating fascinating car-related stories, often accompanied by minimal visuals. Runner-Up Creators to Watch
These 10 automotive creators and brands are rising stars or niche players who, while not yet on the top-25 list, are making significant waves. They each offer something unique and are quickly building influence:
- The Straight Pipes (Yuri Tereshyn & Jakub Wrobel) – A Canadian duo known for fun, straightforward new car reviews. Their engaging “two angles” commentary (often one host loves a feature while the other hates it) and signature sound tests (“#pfew” for exhaust notes) have earned them ~1.5 million YouTube subscribers. They focus on honest impressions with a touch of humor, making car shopping info entertaining.
Links: YouTube • Instagram - Mat Armstrong – A UK-based YouTuber rapidly gaining fame for rebuilding wrecked supercars in his garage. Mat’s hands-on, can-do style saw him fix up a salvaged Lamborghini Gallardo, Audi R8, and even a Ferrari, documenting the journey step by step. With around 1.3 million YouTube subscribers (and climbing fast), he represents the next generation of DIY rebuild channels.
Links: YouTube • Instagram - Rich Rebuilds (Rich Benoit) – An American creator who initially made his name restoring a flooded Tesla, Rich now runs a shop focusing on EVs and engine-swap antics. His channel (≈1 million subs) blends electric vehicle expertise with comedy – like converting a Tesla into a V8-powered monster. He’s become a voice in the EV community, advocating for DIY repairs and poking fun at Tesla’s idiosyncrasies.
Links: YouTube • Instagram - TJ Hunt – One of the original tuner vlogging superstars, TJ has nearly 2.5 million YouTube subscribers following his journey modifying JDM cars (BRZ, Supra, GTR) and exotics. Based in California, he shares the highs and lows of SEMA builds, widebody installs, and running his lifestyle brand. TJ’s channel has matured from college-kid vlog to a professional operation, and while growth has stabilized, he remains a key influencer in the tuner scene.
Links: YouTube • Instagram - 1320Video (Kyle Loftis & team) – A staple in street and drag racing media, 1320Video isn’t a personality-driven channel but rather a brand capturing raw racing action. With ~3 million YT subscribers, they showcase underground drag meets, half-mile roll races, and “no prep” events across the US. Their grassroots coverage and famed race highlight reels have made them a must-follow for racing enthusiasts.
Links: YouTube • Instagram - B is for Build (Chris Steinbacher) – A gritty, hands-on build channel where Chris tackles ambitious car projects, often with unorthodox methods. He’s rebuilt wrecked Lamborghinis and even fabricated a custom Mustang fastback from a modern chassis. With ~1.6M YouTube subscribers, Chris’s content appeals to hardcore DIYers who appreciate seeing fabrication challenges and creative problem-solving on a budget.
Links: YouTube • Instagram - Hagerty (Media) – Hagerty, originally an insurer for classic cars, has developed a robust media arm producing shows for enthusiasts. Their YouTube (≈2M subs) features series like Barn Find Hunter (discovering lost classics), Jason Cammisa’s Icons (high-quality retro reviews), and Redline Rebuilds (time-lapse engine restorations). Hagerty’s content is niche but revered among car aficionados, and its influence is growing in the online space.
Links: YouTube • Instagram - Alex Choi – A young Los Angeles-based supercar influencer known for extreme car modifications and stunts. Alex’s YouTube (~950k subs) and Instagram showcase his bold projects like a Lamborghini Huracán with a one-of-a-kind exo-skeleton roll cage and antics like launching fireworks from a car (which actually landed him in legal trouble). Polarizing but popular with the street tuner crowd, he’s a rising name in the wild supercar lifestyle scene.
Links: YouTube • Instagram - Mo Vlogs (Mohamed Beiraghdary) – A Dubai-based YouTuber who has drawn a global audience into the lavish Middle Eastern car scene. Mo Vlogs has ~11M YouTube subscribers, vlogging about hypercar test drives, luxury living, and collaborations with sheikhs and celebrities. While his audience is centered in the Middle East and Asia, his English-language content about supercars (Bugattis, Ferraris, etc.) and opulent lifestyle tours has gained a foothold among U.S. viewers who enjoy aspirational, over-the-top car content.
Links: YouTube • Instagram - The Fast Lane (TFL Studios) – A collective of channels (TFLcar, TFLtruck, TFLoffroad) delivering no-nonsense car and truck reviews, buyer’s guides, and real-world tests. Run by Roman Mica and team, TFL focuses on things like towing tests on their famous Colorado Ike Gauntlet route, or EV range challenges in the real world. With about 1.5M on TFLcar and additional hundreds of thousands on their other channels, TFL is a go-to for consumers who want practical evaluations over flash. Their influence in the truck and SUV community is especially strong and climbing.
Links: YouTube – TFLcar • YouTube – TFLtruck • Official Site
Each of these runner-ups brings a distinct flavor to the automotive content world. They may cater to specific niches or be on a growth trajectory that could soon challenge the top 25. Keep an eye on them – they’re well on their way to greater influence in 2025 and beyond.
