Let's be realistic, JLR has the Base mode on the website so they can say "Starting at $51,700" They don't want to sell base versions. The cost to build higher options trucks doesn't cost all that much more for them so JLR is focused on top spec Defenders to keep profits up with low volumes keeping them exclusive for the US market. If they make it hard enough to get they will move most buyers into other models as the vast majority of Land/Range Rover buyers never go off-road, it is about the image. I think Defenders are starting to get the market vibe of MB G Wagons. It will be interesting if Justin Bieber driving one changes the image.

 

"market vibe of the G Wagon?" Um no. The G wagon is a class above the Defender, it's above every other SUV with an exception to the RR. They start at $140,000 and go up from there. Stop by a BM dealership and look at one on the floor, you'll see what i mean.

 

I think the Defender is the closest option to the G Wagon without spending the premium price. It's amazing how many G-Wagons you see in LA given the cost. You don't see as many Defenders... yet.

 

I passed by a G on the road today in my 90, I'll be honest with you I felt like I had the better looking vehicle. I know the G's fantastic off-road and premium but there's something special about these Defenders IMO. We have premium but don't need to worry about it so much, just drive it. If a big part of WHY you buy something is so everyone you pass by knows it's a six figure ride then you're going to gravitate that way. I'm very satisfied with what I have here and wouldn't trade it for anything else tbh. As for Bieber I think he has good taste.. Just buy it, drive it and don't worry about anything else, it looks fantastic IMO.

 

I just started thinking about a Defender, so I went to Land Rover South Bay in Torrance and the salesperson told me that they are marking up $10k for vehicles coming in, or $5k for ordered vehicles. Im not sure if I actually went through the process of ordering it would stay at only $5k, but thought I would pass that on.

 

Puente Hills had three Defenders and charged $8.5k markup.

 

What else competes with the g wagon then? The g is smaller and rides like the tank that it is. It is also one of the most expensive to maintain. I love Mercedes (my Grandfather owned a MB dealership that is now Brumos) Speaking of RR maintenance, we currently have three and they have been trouble free other than the normal wear and tear items.

 

I went to my local dealer Princeton NJ to order the most basic 2.0 Defender with tow & cold climate package. $58,000 ish and promised NO dealer markup over MSRP. Delivery in 6 months.
FFS what are your CA dealers on…?

Edison LR had a James Bond edition went 50k over sticker & the few in FL $95k over…!!!


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