what do you like about your D3

[2_door]

I am in the market for a second hand D3, looking at an 05 V6 petrol as I am on a modest budget .

Unfortunately there isnt much around Tassie for sale and will probably end up having to fly and buy from the mainland.

So, I would like to know from owners what they like about their D3....some inspiration to go justify all the trouble in getting one over a D2a

thanks in advance

[justinc]

I am in the market for a second hand D3, looking at an 05 V6 petrol as I am on a modest budget .

Unfortunately there isnt much around Tassie for sale and will probably end up having to fly and buy from the mainland.

So, I would like to know from owners what they like about their D3....some inspiration to go justify all the trouble in getting one over a D2a

thanks in advance

As you well know I don't own one.... BUT I'd have one in a flash, preferrably the diesel though. The torque and driveability has to be experienced, and they are chippable to beyond V8 performance with way less fuel outlay. Fantastic trans software, they shift as good as any manual box, such little 'slush' you hardly know its an auto.
The only drawback with the 's' version IMHO is the appaling lack of ground clearance (No height adjustable air suspension), with their long wheelbase the ramp over angle is a disaster I would urge you to wait a bit and get a TdV6 SE when they become a bit cheaper, you won't be dissappointed And you'll be glad to know they don't seem to be expensive to maintain, and ATM I have seen way less faults with them than some D2's.

JC

[rmp]

Clarification. Some early "S" models were coils. Air was an option. Now all S models are air/Terrain Response.

If you find one you like why not post here, I'm sure some kind souls will assist with a checkout before you fly over.

[justinc]

Clarification. Some early "S" models were coils. Air was an option. Now all S models are air/Terrain Response.

If you find one you like why not post here, I'm sure some kind souls will assist with a checkout before you fly over.

Good point Robert, But the SE got a few more bits too that weren't optional on S models, IIRC like nav and reverse sensors etc. If I were buying used, I'd try and get a SE, budget permitting of course

JC

[rmp]

I would waver between S and SE. I own an SE because I have a family and need the 7 seats. But if I was to fast-forward life to Grey Nomad Time (bring it on) I would be considering an S, bit more space in the back. Haven't looked, but the S models might be a lot cheaper than SEs? Buy cheaper, have to sell cheaper? Not sure.

The nav is hopeless being based on Sensis maps. The reverse sensors are good though. Can't remember the other options. Electric seats weren't an SE spec.

I'm glad to hear you back up what I've heard others say about D3s though on the reliability front.

[ozscott]

Mate - if you want to get a broad spectrum of answers from a broad spectrum of owners with both D2a and D3 why dont you post this question also on the D2 thread....I wont answer your question here because I will get in trouble....

Cheers

[scarry]

Saw a good few on a recent Cape trip & spoke to a few owners & they couldnt be happier.

Actually saw one trundle through Nolan brook,for those of you that know what it is like,& how many vehicles it claims each year.(have a look at the Ho Hars avatar)

In fact saw more D3's north of Cooktown than any other rover product.

If i was gonna get the S,i would hunt around for one with Air Suspension.

Now as for my D2a,i couldnt be happier,but cant comment on D3 as i dont own one........yet.

[2_door]

theres a few in Vic for sale on car point. They are all S variants, V6 petrols, auto (I dont think they made a manual did they ???) with air suspension and the wizzbang terrain thingy and fall into my budget of btn 35 and 40k.

Now, I am assuming, but would expect that if it has air suspension, then it would also be height adjustable???? which should alleviate the ramp over issue that JC has identified. It will be a shopping trolley and 'easy' weekend get away machine, tourer etc as I have a good D1 for keeping up with JC in the tuff stuff

I would probably prefer the air suspension, P38 owners rave about it so it must be a good thing.

I must admit I know almost zip about the D3 other than they are very under rated by the majority....I mean Yota and Datsun owners but we wont got there

keep the info coming, I really appreciate the input

[justinc]

Mark,

I would still suggest you look at the TdV6, maybe an early S optioned with terrain response/ air susp? You will kick yourself if you don't get the height adjustable suspension, as I feel that it is mandatory in a vehicle of this capability. I have 1 customer that is wishing HE did after I point out more underbody damage nearly every time I see it for servicing. Tasrobs D3 is a weapon, but is new and fully kitted out etc for touring, winch, tanks, racks, bla bla... he could help sway you with a drive of the diesel and check out the suspension etc..... Now you can call me the evil tempter....

JC

[gghaggis]

The D3 EAS (Electronic Air Suspension) is a generational improvement over that in the P38 Rangies or later D2s. It's quite different, far more robust and yes, it's selectable.

The S variants were often optioned up with the EAS, and if you don't need the 7 seats, represent good value for money - the EAS option includes the Terrain Response, which allows selective tuning of the traction control. Other differences between S and SE depend on the model year - things like leather seats, bi-xenon headlights, 6-stacker CD were variously available on SE's. Sat Nav was only std on HSE.

If buying 2nd-hand, the post-2007 models have a slightly better CANBUS system design and subsequently less small electronic problems.

Cheers,

Gordon