A combination of heavy use and the desire of the privatised operators to adapt their EMU fleets to changing demands led to an early refurbishment for the class. Connex thoroughly refurbished seven of their 319/0 units, including converting a DTS to a DTC, to provide "new" stock for their Capital Coast Express service (formerly served by 8 Dig units) in the process becoming units 319214-220. Unit 319017 was the first conversion. The press launch for the new stock, and rebranding of the service as the Connex Express, was on 21 January 1997 using units 319217/218/215, with the public service commencing on 27 January 1997.

This service was rebranded as the Brighton Express early in 2000. Using the freedom that privatisation brought and pushing the concept of a cross London service further north than Bedford Connex introduced a Gatwick Airport to Rugby service via the west London line, though congested tracks subsequently put paid to this route. 319/0 units were used on this service.

Meanwhile from 1998 Thameslink refurbished their 319 stock and introduced a new sober Blue orange and white livery. 319/1s were refurbished to 319/3s for their City Metro (i.e. shorter haul) services, the fleet being all converted by autumn 1999. 319/0s were converted to 319/4s for use on Thameslink City Flyer (i.e. Bedford to Gatwick/Brighton) services. Note again the transposition of first class accommodation from the original build - seats were exchanged during the refurbishment process.

photograph by Colin Duff

photograph by John Lewis

photograph by John Lewis

photograph by John Lewis