A VAT-efficient crew van version of the Defender 110 4x4 Station Wagon is now available from Land Rover under the Utility Wagon banner. A change in its classification from passenger car to light commercial means that companies acquiring one should be able to reclaim the VAT paid on it.The Indian-owned manufacturer has created Utility Wagon by installing what it refers to as a Utility Pack. Available as a no-cost option on all three trim levels — Base, County and XS — it consists primarily of solid panels that replace the rearmost side windows.
Doing so helps to create a separate cargo area at the back while still allowing the vehicle to carry five people. Payload capacity is over 1,000kg and drivers who get private use of a Utility Wagon will be taxed on a notional Benefit in Kind capped at £3,000 a year; the light commercial rather than the car rate. Prices start at £20,874 excluding VAT.
