For starters i want it perfectly clear, this is not a bash Hornby thread.
I just received a Hornby 42xx number 4266. She looks stunning in BR black.
The cab interior, what little you can see of it, looks stunning as per Hornbys usual standard.
The buffers look good, regardless if whether they are sprung or not.
The moulded smokebox dart looks absolutely fine when viewed from normal viewing distance.
The running qualities are superb, easily hauling my vsoe rake of 11 of the latest Hornby Pullmans, something my new A4 & A3 struggle with.
Overall I believe that this design clever philosophy will be a success. Maybe just a few tweaks, specifically in the way of brass bearings in the wheel slots of the chassis.
7/10 from me.