So, how did you feel about that huge lump where the DPF is in RHD vehicles in terms of driving position? I read lots of comments about the rear space, rightfully so, but how about the most important position in the car the drivers seat!Attachment 182567Well we finally got to drive the Grenadier on Saturday. This was held at Tambourine Mountain on the Gold Coast hinterland. The off road course was reasonably challenging with ruts and a section there needing Low Range. Unfortunately my wife didnt take photos while we where on the course but got quite a few of the vehicles. They had three there, various specs but all diesel. The Grenadier did drive very well, tyres were down to 30 pounds and soaked up the bumps really well. Low range first is probably not as low as an original Defender but that's only going by feel , I could be wrong. Fit and finish seems quite good but these are still prototypes that will be improved on apparently. Actually they said these cars will be stripped of useful parts and crushed which seems a shame. We could not take photos under the bonnet but all seems neat and tidy. The complexity of modern engines means there are a lot of hoses and wiring etc but there is a reasonable amount of room around the engine. There are a few hang up points underside which is a little disappointing. The rear muffler is low and the front steering damper pretty low as well. Could be different yet on the production models though. The mounts for the rear arms are pretty low as well. Big sway bars and eye shocks as well as eye mounts for the rear arms so I doubt the suspension flex would be fantastic. My wife was worried about the rear spare blocking view of the back when reversing, but it does have a reversing Camera.
It looks good, although I dont love the front end with the insert lights in the grill but I guess thats going to grow on me. The back looks good, square load space which is practical. The other thing i am not keen on is the centre dash screen. Nothing in front of the driver except a small panel with lights. No speedo even. Got to love the centre console and roof console though. Feels like an airplane, very cool.
All in all a very impressive machine that's not perfect, but what is? Optioned up with duel batteries and a few other accessories it would make a great tourer without spending huge coin to set up whats is already provided in this vehicle. Attachment 182566Attachment 182568Attachment 182569Attachment 182570Attachment 182571Attachment 182572Attachment 182573Attachment 182574Attachment 182575Attachment 182576Attachment 182577Attachment 182578Attachment 182579Attachment 182580Attachment 182581
Cheers,
-P
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