This new lease extention rumour is the one thing worrying me at the moment. I’m new to the scheme and am awaiting my new car which should be available for pick up beginning of Feb (yet to be officially confirmed). Problem is if that date proves to be correct by the time the 3 year lease expires I will only have 10 months of my PIP award left which means I wont be able to choose a new car until a successful PIP review is done. If they will only be prepared to extend the lease for 6 months at the end I will have a shortfall of 4 months before I can choose a new car on the scheme.
I’m sure that the scenario you describe would fit the criteria for an extension beyond 6 months, as it would be exceptional circumstances.