blackrangie wrote:

Jav uk

First big reason is most fleet managers simply dont buy anything without 5 star safety for obvious reasons.
Then you have, more comfortable, capable, able to tow better, able to carry loads with more stability and safety.
Especially as you are leasing, it will be more reliable and cost effective with warranty and roadside.
I could go on and on.
Red cross look to be signing up, thier team cover something like 3million miles a year on and offeoad.
No doubt all the police forces and council highway fleets will start switching to the new defender too as its said to be tougher and more durable.

You deserve a job in JLR PR I would hope a vehicle which is expected to cost twice as much as its predecessor to be a least twice as good in every way.
If JLR do not produce a UK commercial version all the BIK and Tax benefits for business are lost making it a very expensive option compared to the vehicle it is replacing. I can't imagine any of the UK utility companies replacing their ageing 110 fleets with the new model. Why? The replacement is too expensive and does not meet their needs. I consider the Red Cross a special case as they have more funding than an average countries economy.
Having spoken to a few UK stealers I know they are twitchy about the lack of a commercial at launch . I have always used NFU discount when purchasing my Defenders and it will be interesting to see what they will offer NFU members as they appear to be ignoring their "old school" core market sector. It is obvious from the leaked marketing JLR are chasing a totally new lifestyle customer with deep pockets.
However, if the new model is as good as you suggest I could imagine a lot of RRS & D5 owners switching.
Could this be the JLR masterplan...... pull out of one market and overlap a new product into their existing models..... I don't get their marketing strategy unless they are going to retire a few older conflicting models.....

Sorry if I'm musing like an "old fart" but I was so looking forward to the New Defender, but the hype and leaked images mean the new one is not for me, If I was in charge of the replacement then the KISS acronym would apply. I had hoped for live axles, an autobox and a power plant with masses of torque wrapped up in a purposeful, utilitarian skin that won't corrode. Simple electrics, decent heater, comfy seats and driving position. It would work well in it's rural heartland, still cope in the smoke, last a lifetime and therefore have a sensible ECO foot print.
So.... after 20 years of constant Defender ownership I have just sold my current 110 , replacing it with a very practical FIAT drop side pick up, ordered the wife the new Evoque and I'm on the look out for a 1973, 5 bearing Series III or maybe i'll wait for "project grenadier"
I look forward to reading your review of your New Defender. I trust it lives up to all your expectations. Happy Days