Thread: New defender

Hi Everyone

Thought I'd follow the usual forum rules and post a pic of my defender that I picked up today. I've been walking around with a more stupid grin than usual for the last couple of hours - couldn't be happier with it. A couple of things I've noticed:

The dealer delivery and detail doesn't extend to getting rid of the metal shavings in the cargo area - petty comment maybe but they should do something for their margin I reckon.

The front seat is fine as it is. I was a bit worried about having to buy a set of mulgo rails (still might) or not being comfy with the window up on a long drive. Pffft. Felt fine. My last car was an 04 outback & was a bit more comfy but not by a long margin. For any would be buyers, I'm 6'2 and about 105kgs so I reckon there's a lot of bunk thrown around about comfort levels in defenders. Maybe the older ones are different....

Levels of noise are fine. I wanted a basic product but the levels of nvh are just fine. I've driven cars much worse (ok they were old cars but even so). How much peace and quiet do you really need? I like to know I'm driving a vehicle & the lr certainly gives me that.

Aircon on the newies is more than enough.

The factory installed radiant heater under the gear level works well but is negated ok by the aircon. Will be handy on really cold mornings when I want to warm my left leg just that little bit extra.

The joke about the only two things seen from space being the dingo fence and land rover panel gaps is pretty close to the mark. Drove through a bit of a puddle & noticed water on the floor in the back. Oh well - was expected.

Exposed bolts have their own charm. My last car, being a modern japanese one, had everything covered in either carpet or other material. I can see bolt heads everywhere on the defender and....I love it! Why cover functional stuff up? It's nice to see all the bits out there. It's a bit like the rough nudist of the 4wd world I reckon.

I must be soft because.... a newie is hardcore enough for me I looked at a couple of series II and III's but just couldn't bring myself to do it (plus the treasurer was not amused). So I've had to sell off a few toys to jump to a new version & it's just what the doctor ordered. A daily driver with a bit of character!

3 yr olds love defenders just as much as their fathers. My little fella had to be prised from it when it came time for dinner.

People smile at you when you drive one (with a hint of pity?)

Here it is with my mate Rayzin. Still working on the name for the defender...

Can't wait to do the first trip!!

Cheers,

Gav

Congrats, and welcome to the fold.
Love the colour.
The misses will like it after awhile.
Enjoy the Defender experience