I would have preferred to have seen a New Defender launched in 2014/5 using the outgoing D3/4 platform. This was the perfect platform to build all sorts of body configurations on. This is exactly how they introduce a low cost D1 on the RRC chassis and running gear which lead to the best RRC ever - the D2.
They could then fit the new engine range and proven technology from the D5 model. To reduce costs manufacturing could have been moved out of the UK - even to India or China.
It would have been true to LR heritage and be truly utilitarian in how it could be customised. Like the old Defender was but modernised to today’s safety standards. But only using proven technology and de-tuned for reliability.
And the New Defender we see today - this is what the D5 should have been.
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