You missed the point here, this was written in response to you posting a D5 vehicle configuration that was supposedly cheap as an example of what might be achievable for the new Defender which, in the context of the conversation has been about something that is relatively affordable and off road capable etc.
I have no issue with making things like air suspension and dual transfer case optional, the issue is that to get those things you are required to upgrade the engine as well from the SD4 to the TD6 which makes it a far more expensive exercise to get what you want. LRA make you pay for stuff you don't want to get the stuff you do want. This just one example of how LRA bundle features together in "packs" which can be quite expensive. Not only that they will split desirable features up into separate packs so that a buyer will be forced to get both packs to get the features they want. Not only that, many of these features are standard on other brands but you are forced to pay for them on a LR.
The point being that the cool off road gizmos will likely be options that will force the price up making the vehicle expensive and out of reach of those that want to use it for what it is designed for thus limiting it's potential market.
Regarding your mention of grey nomads... if they are towing heavy loads they need low range, not for highway towing, but for maneuvering. Any conditions that require low speed maneuvering (esp. reversing) for any length of time will risk the auto trans overheating (not to mention the finer control you have of the accelerator with LR).
I think I can get what you're saying without the simplistic analogy
Yep, you're right, people will complain. Just like Abraham Lincoln said, "You can please some of the people..." you know the rest, but I'm not one of those folk. As someone who has bought 3 new late model vehicles form LR I think I am well placed to make comment on the sales and marketing strategies of LRA. I love the brand, but LRA really do bend you over with the way they structure the pricing along with limiting how AUS vehicles are configured for the luxury sector.
There are people that would love to have a D5 but to get what they NEED it becomes too expensive and they go elsewhere. To build market share LRA need to cater to the lower end of the market so people can get their foot in the door and experience the brand.
Ultimately, I am just saying that I hope they don't take the same approach with the Defender.
Originally Posted by blackrangie
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