Hi all
Anybody know how sophisticated the traction control will be on the IG. I am not a hard core off roader so doubt I will need the locking diffs and would need to learn how to use them ? watching a few vids it seems that a locking centre diff and good modern traction control (which brakes the wheel without traction to be able to send power to the other wheel) is very effective now a days so wondering if people think the diffs will be worth the extra cost (trying to keep my spec manageable!) and will it be a must have for people if I ever need to sell it?
cheers paul
Hi Paul,
I think it is a great question, and I differ a bit from some replies you've had.
Firstly, I have 3 diff locks on my existing car, and I chose them for the grenadier. BUT, I don't think they are a no-brainer for everyone, and here's why I think that.
There are lots of uses for this car that will never need the additional diff locks. It is SERIOUSLY capable, even without. Yes, they really help, especially if you know when and how to use them, but loads of people will never do that. This includes people who principally tow, or on-road, or dirt road and fire trail, etc etc. Its worth mentioning that the real Land Rover defender was never available with F&R locks or traction control, and most never had them fitted after market like mine, yet this is the basis of the 4x4 legend. Same for Toyotas, that together with LR are the backbone of Australia and Africa/Middle East.
This forum is heavily biased to 'us', people who are early adopters, and heavily invested in missing something that the Grenadier speaks to, and more likely by far to have done remote or overloading envelope-pushing where this stuff gets you home easily. But, importantly, the more mature Grenadier market will be a lot wider than deeply engaged, if insightful geniuses like we forum members.
So, some possible buyers of your car might want them, many won't care. If they do want them, they'll probably want most of the trialmaster option list (def the added wiring, poss battery/air intake). That's a big add - if you are budget limited, my guess is that there will be plenty of buyers who have never engaged a diff lock in their lives.
A 'plain old' grenadier is still going to be a great vehicle, and as safe an 'investment' as a highly specified one.
Good luck with your decision.