How driveable is a puma defender

[AJM]

Hi

I’m looking for a new vehicle; almost certainly a dual cab Ute and canopy but would consider a station wagon.

90% of it’s driving will be long runs carrying bulky but light work tools. The next 9% will be running about doing farm work where it will tow a 2 tonne trailer to carry the rough stuff. If I’m honest, there will be naff all fun stuff requiring a defender.

My heart says this may be my chance to finally get a defender. My head says don’t be silly just get a less expensive and more road oriented vehicle that will do the job more comfortably, use less fuel.

What would a defender be like to drive 60 thousand kms per year carrying 3-500kg gross weight including campy and cabinets.

Defender that makes most sense is a 110 station wagon as a don’t think I need the sheer scale of a 130.

I will start looking at all the Japanese versions this week but still have a sneaky longing for a defender. Is there anyone in the south Burnett or Toowoomba regions that has a defender I could test drive? There don’t seem to be any in local dealerships and I do my best to not drive to brisbane!

Comments are appreciated

Andrew

[Homestar]

Plenty here have them as daily drivers. I’ve never owned a newer version, but have driven one a few thousand KM over a couple of weeks and I would have one no dramas. Seating position is... umm... different. You get used to being wedged against the door, and I found driving with the window down is easier so my arm can hang out of it. On a hot day you’ll burn your left leg against the tunnel, but I’d have one in a flash...

Definately test drive one before jumping in, they aren’t for everyone, but they could be just what you want! 👍

[EastFreo]

I did 40,000km last year in my 2014 110. Was doing a weekly drive from Perth to Bridgetown in SW WA where we have a farm.

It is our family wagon, it gets used on the farm and it comfortably does the city commute when I am in Perth.

We we also have a 1993 110 which was my Dad’s and the back is piled up with star pickets (they slot in nicely under the rear seats), chainsaws, shovels, strainers, wire and all the other things you use on a farm.

Go for it. Best vehicle ever.