McKillop said Bown "has a sense of authenticity and a wonderful, boyish enthusiasm...when the camera's on him, he's infectious.

Library Journal recommended the DVD set, with reviewer Lawrence Maxted commending Matt Bown's enthusiasm and "solid job of explaining rail operations."

[2] The Times called the show "trainspotting for adrenaline junkies" giving railroading a "full-on, hyperbolic treatment".

[3] Writing for the Daily News (New York), David Hinckley said Extreme Trains was "not a bad show", but he criticized Bown's hosting style and the focus on technical details.

Hinckley said that Bown "borders on self-parody" with his "dramatic inflection" describing "every move to the camera lens".