(19 Jul 2020, 7:12 pm)streetdeckfan wrote I have to disagree with you there slightly, it would be like me ordering a luxury taxi and the driver turning up in an 02 Audi A4, sure it still runs, and nice inside, but it's not what I wanted.

Now, in Arriva's case, they're not really promising that much, but with GNE having things like 'as posh as your car' stuck on the back of the bus, it's clear they're wanting to go for something a bit 'fancier' than refurbed 15 year old buses like Arriva do.

But then you've just justified why Arriva can use 52/03 plates on MAX services, despite your taxi analogy. 

MAX was never claimed to be luxury, instead it was to promote interurban services and happened to be specced with e-leather seating, WiFi (and power on later refurbs). 

As a comparison - the Consett express services using the ex-dealer stock and ex-London B9TLs have more recent vehicles yet worse spec. I know I'd prefer more comfortable seating than a newer bus. Nobody is saying 52-plate B7s are the epitome of luxury buses, but to anyone other than an enthusiast they'll likely be happy with the interior spec and not give a toss about the age unless the reliability is poor. 

This thread is now getting *very* off topic mind.