zilch wrote:

tIt would also depend on the application, and when you think of long range touring, would you say
the modern LR models (D3/4) have left the old series Defender behind In terms of capability?

That isn't the point I'm making though. Although could be an interesting discussion on its own.

Let's face it, a 1970 Range Rover or a 1989 Discovery is arguably a better touring vehicle than the Defender ever was. And technically both pre-date the "Defender", which as a name wasn't introduced until 1990.


My point is more about the wider design intention of the design and how the styling has been preserved.

For reference I'd cite the Jeep Wrangler range. A vehicle with a legacy that pre-dates that of even the Defender. Yet the latest JL model still "looks" like a 'Jeep' and is instantly recognisable as such. Jeep have preserved design elements that existed on the WW2 counterpart and made them relevant today. Not just visually, but functionally too.

Suzuki have done similar with the Jimny. A vehicle which might only date back to the 1970's. But look at an early example and look at the latest model. And you can clearly see the same design language being used. As well as having preserved the basic fundamental designs and ethos.

Mercedes would be another with the G-Wagen, that while it is now far more expensive. And has had a major make over. It still remains very much a G-Wagen. This is for both of the current variants.

And there are others that seem to share such views. The Grenadier wouldn't exist otherwise. And of course more recently, the re-imaging of the classic Ford Bronco. Where I think Ford truly have captured the ethos and styling of the past model and brought it right up to date and then some.


I do not hate the new model. But being a person who was very excited for a new Defender model, I wish Land Rover had done something more akin to the Wrangler/Bronco/Grenadier if they were to slap the Defender nameplate onto a new vehicle.

I honestly believe had JLR called the new model a Discovery, not a single person would be complaining or be disappointed. Which is why I suggested it being a Defender SPORT as a more apt compromise.

Stacey007 wrote:

the crawling with an auto is very handy when hooking up a trailer or reversing a trailer, Makes it far more predictable and precise where your heading with it.

Seems odd this auto did not let you do that.

Chicken Drumstick wrote:

[ I honestly believe had JLR called the new model a Discovery, not a single person would be complaining or be disappointed. Which is why I suggested it being a Defender SPORT as a more apt compromise.

redneckwilly wrote:

Haters gonna hate!

For your requirements, a pickup truck might be a better suited vehicle. Do they sell Ford F150's over there? Body on Frame, more storage in back bed than an old Defender, made for rough conditions. But they can be quite tall as well. So, if you had trouble climbing in the new Defender, side steps or a small step stool accessory could be the answer.