Originally Posted by brydup

Great review, TW, did you test drive or consider the 4 cylinder?

I have some questions for you and the rest of the group: ( know these are personal preference issues but I'd like some opinions before Friday (the day we visit the dealer to order ours).

Our Usage: We don't do a lot of off roading; rugged, small-rock infested mountain roads/trails a few times a year when camping, dirt and farm roads in the country, and a little beach driving. A few long road trips a year (13+ hours each way), beach/surf trips every other weekend, all summer long (2-3 hours each way). We don't tow anything. Surfboards and light gear on the roof. Not much city driving either, everything is close to our house, so we walk or bike most places.

Here are my questions:

1) Do I need the V6? How bad would the 4 cylinder engine option would be? We test drove the V6 a couple of times and it felt quick and capable. But I not a lot faster than my Volvo xc90 V8 AWD. I can't find a single review of the 4 cylinder (296 hp / 4,850 lbs curb weight) . Previous cars have been 2013 GLK350 4matic (300hp / 4,321 lbs cw) and still have a 2007 Volvo XC90 V8 AWD (310hp/ 4,800 lbs cw). The 4 cylinder has more hp than the base Jeep Wrangler v6 (285 hp / 5,300 lbs cw). We're worried about the mild-hybrid V6's reliability ( LR doesn't that rep and neither the GLK or Volvo has ever left us stranded) and high way performance (never driver faster than 100 . And of course, the 4 cylinder is $13k less expensive;

2) How much off-roading capability do we really need? We're adding the Off-Road Pack, but do we need: All Terrain Progress Control; Configurable Terrain Response, and Advance Tow Assist (which helps you park the trailer)? Is the Off-Road pack good enough for super-mild off-roading? and

3) Do I need the raised air-intake? I watched the reviews and Namibia road trip, so I get what it's used for, and it looks cool, but is it needed?

With the 4 cylinder Off-Road Pack, Cold-Weather Pack (we visit Chicago and Green Bay often), and other hand picked accessories, we're at $65k. If we add the V6, we're close at $78k, that's a pretty big difference. As you can see by our 2013 and 2007, we keep cars forever and don't trade up on a whim, so re-sale value isn't a consideration.

Your thoughts appreciated.

Originally Posted by njdefendernj

@Johndebus @Corgi_Express Thank you about the A pillar flapping noise. Almost didn't take delivery because of it becoming noticeable at speeds above 60. On my vehicle, you can see that the passenger A pillar molding has more space between it and the window versus the other side. My retailer ordered a replacement part for it, but if you have the service bulletin, will share it with them. Not crazy about them taking off the molding and potentially creating an issue with my heated window. If they can fill it with more of the dark gray foam material to stop that flapping noise with opening it up, I would feel much better.

Originally Posted by 777AIA

I got to test drive several of the new Defenders in Europe when I was traveling late last year at an LR outing. I do a LOT of off-roading, and frankly, felt comfortable with BOTH the 4-cyl and 6-cyl being able to do the type of off-road you sound like you are planning on. But, if you plan to load her up with a lot of stuff and drive any high altitudes, I would jump to the 6-cyl.
Frankly, you sound like you'd be better off with the Disco V! Your 'usage' does not even sound like it warrants a Defender...
...just sayin'

Originally Posted by njdefendernj

@777AIA Loving the signature with the 914s. My first vehicle was a green '73 914 with the 1.7... rust and all.