The Defender has depreciated in value over it’s lifespan in every market on earth other than the United States and that’s just because of scarcity and because it has always been trendy as it is the ultimate hipster SUV.

This popularity and lore doesn’t escape me either, but if people plan to do even a little off roading, which is very easy in the American South and Midwest to West Coast, then the purchase or pursuit of the vehicle is more than justified. Young people do a lot of trail biking, climbing, hiking, camping, etc all over the country, so this vehicle will sell like nothing ever before it. LR has done brilliant with this car and all the tech was actually a smart addition, but only if they made it rugged, which is highly possible in 2020. Even Army infantry carry iPads into combat and they rarely break or fail. As long as there aren’t any spinning hard drives, the tech will survive even the worse abuse. Sensors are your biggest enemy, so we shall see how this problem is addressed.

All new vehicles will begin to depreciate quickly due to advances and the growing lease consumership of goods. If someone insists on the old Defender, there are a ton to go around for the next 20 or so years, so just get one and be done with it. However, for those who would normally buy a loaded Wrangler, 4 Runner, FJ, etc, the Defender is now the new market BOSS.

The only thing I’ll hate is the X version for the posh spice crowd who would never even get it dirty, but think this will be more manly looking than the Range Rovers; while correct, it won’t make pretty boys any less douche bag.

 

With the new D5 having issue after issue at a $75k price tag, why would the Defender be any different? If we are talking about the off road outdoor enthusiast, I believe the bare bone stock Defender with the steel wheels COULD be a hit. I like it in base stock form. And it is affordable. But the $75-90k+ Defender with all the bells and whistles will be a rap video mall crawler delight.

Is it going to compete with the Wrangler and 4Runner? No. Never sell as many. It is in a niche class of its own for the bourbon drinkers.

 

At a $75k price tag, it’s not in the same market as Wrangler or 4 Runner. If I’m not mistaken, the top of the line Rubicon can be had for at least $25k less.

 

Who doesn’t like Bourbon?

Stillruns, you are right about the bare bones or as bare as possible, but likely because guys will hit the aftermarket immediately for serious and extreme trekking. I just want a 90 with an Explorer pack, winch, skids, and off road tires and I’m good.

I disagree with the assumption that many have about competing with the Wrangler. Earlier I mentioned those buying loaded Wranglers, that means lift kit, big tires, etc. That vehicle is at around $50K+. Further, typical folk don’t buy the fully loaded Jeep or 4 Runner, but going all the way to the G Wagon isn’t a realistic option. Point is that these people have money just like all of you do; they can get what they WANT and they’ll WANT the Defender after a year or two.

The X is the issue for me, as it is more a Poseur vehicle, but will still be capable sort of like the G Wagon. However, it doesn’t matter, LR needs to make money, so I see nothing wrong with Poseurs buying a version of the car. Hell, who do you think buy all of these loaded pickups that sit in office garages all day while the guy works inside of an air conditioned building all day and doesn’t even own a boat?

if only for the purists and enthusiasts, LR would be shut down by now.

 

Take a look! Buddy of mine in Denver spotted this test mule this morning on the way to Copper Mtn for a fresh pow day.

Looks to be a Defender out for some North America testing.

2020 Defender Testing in Colorado Dec 2019

 

Very cool

 

Of course Land Rover couldn’t even get the Zebra stripes wrap job right.









.....kidding folks.

 

Not even sure why the camo remains on at this point. I guess to keep folks like me from walking up and taking pics all day.

Can hardly wait for some brutal road tests and hopefully Clarkson, Hammond, and Captain Slow (May)

 

I am not to sure they are really focusing on Car tests anymore but fingers crossed the boys will be back at it soon.

Did you check out The Grand Tour presents Seamen?

Good to see another from Georgia on here

 

Yes, I did see the premier on Friday. Classic Top Gear grade adventure and shenanigans. I know the format of the show is changing a bit, but with a new Defender, I trust that the boys will find a way to incorporate the new car into something they’ll get up to.

Looking forward to some runs up in North Georgia and Blue Ridge area once I snag a 90 in a bit over a years time.