Just spent over an hour test driving a P400 Defender. Due to dealership COVID rules, the salesperson was not allowed to ride with me. He just handed me the key fob and said "enjoy". First off, I presume the shift lever becomes more intuitive with use. I had to carefully review if I was in D or R anytime I used the lever. I went on twisty back roads, heavy traffic and open highway. The V6 doesn't sound like my LR4 V8 but it feels just as powerful. Suspension is smoother, steering more precise and infotainment is so much better. Can't imagine posting this on the LR4 forum but it's true. And I ordered one that should appear sometime in March.

 

I was a huge fan of my 2013 LR4 for over 7 years (as you know well, Paul) and I completely agree with you. The only place where the Disco/LR4 trumps the new Defender is in cargo space, no contest there (that's something the 130 should eventually address, putting another nail in the coffin of the Discovery in my opinion - if and when it is released.) But it is a step forward in just about every other metric, sometime a quantum leap forward. Ride quality alone is vastly more composed and just a pleasure to experience when coming from the LR4, and that car was very comfortable already.

 

Cargo space, the adult capable third row and split vertical bench creating tailgate. And, I can't by right criticize the older child --- the one which led us to try it all again with the Defender

 

Totally agree, I can see myself jumping to a 130 next for the LR4 rear cargo space. But for now, I'm glad to finally find a suitable replacement for my aging LR4. That Discovery 5 sure wasn't going to work for me.