Originally Posted by
lrdef110
Great article. As a former owner of three (3) double locked Defenders used for serious offroad driving, I transitioned into a D3 with ediff in 2007 then later in 2010 to a 3.0 litre SDV6 D4 also with the ediff simply because I doubted the ability of the Puma to also realistically tow a 3.5 tonne caravan which I was about to buy. This was something I did not do lightly. Would I ever get over cruising along with my arm on the window ledge, listening to the diesel purr, felling the rain drops on my accelerator foot and going where ever I wanted. I must admit my heart still skips a beat every time I see a Defender.
But as much as I love them I would never go back (for what I want a vehicle for). It did take a while to adjust to the odd wheel popping off the ground and that feeling of uncertainty an independent suspension gives, but I can truthfully say that both Discoveries have never left me wanting. They have mastered all of the major iconic offroad tracks in every State of Australia (Canning SR, Simpson, The Cape, Vic High Country, west coast of Tas, etc) without fail, all the time providing a great on-road driving experience. The air suspension has been so good for towing and so reliable in the 350,000 km I have done in the Discos.
However, it is now time to move on again, (except for the Series 1 in the shed, I have owned the D4 longer than any other vehicle in my life) but my disappointment with the D5 as an offroad touring vehicle has had me looking over the fence. The early concept of the new Defender also left me cold, but the latest renditions of this vehicle have installed great interest in this vehicle for me because from what I have seen, I reckon it will be a great all-round offroad touring vehicle that will also tow my van with ease. I am now willing to take a chance and have booked a build spot for when the specifications become available. I say bring it on.