Another Hornby GWR 'King' Class model was due to be released early in 2001 but, with a new policy of upgrading firmly rooted in Hornby’s psyche, it was decided, after the 2001 catalogue had been printed, that the opportunity should be taken to upgrade the model. It was realised that this could mean that the models might not be available that year and the public were warned of this possibility. However, Hornby were also committed to releasing their GWR 'Castle' Class model as Kenilworth Castle with a step-sided tender. The latter was to come from the new 'King' model and so the first priority was to get the new tender tooled up so that at least the 'Castle' could be got out within the year. Once the new tender had been tooled it seemed a pity not to totally retool the 'King' locomotive and so further delays were announced. Two years after it was due, the retooled 'King' arrived. As it turned out, ‘total’ retooling was not strictly accurate as parts, such as the front bogie casting and body moulding appear to be the original ones, if much modified. Despite this, a lot has been done to make it a really attractive model. One of the worst visual features of the old model had been the motion which was greatly improved on the retooled model.