Land Rover Freelander
Ratings
4 stars
Summary
Recommended. Beneath the familiar styling the Freelander is all-new - and vastly improved.
Review
The Freelander has grown up, with the all-new second generation version bigger and better in every regard than the somewhat disappointing original.
The design is very familiar - possibly too familiar. Land Rover has opted to produce a car that looks very like the model it replaces, something the company might come to regret if this Freelander starts to look stale before its time.
At least the cabin is unambiguously better than that of the original car, featuring similar design themes to the Range Rover and Discovery. The dashboard is clearly laid out and an integrated full-colour satnav display screen is now an option. It looks good and the controls are all easy to find, but in some areas build quality feels a bit flimsy compared to the high standards set by segment rivals. There's a reasonably amount of space for four adults, but legroom is a bit tight in the back for taller occupants.
The Freelander drives very well thanks to excellent noise insulation and a compliant chassis, both of which make for relaxed long-distance cruising. It's not a particularly sporty drive, but roll angles are kept under control and the Freelander remains safe and predictable under hard cornering. Off-road ability is excellent, something which will help distinguish the baby Landie from its road-biased "soft roader" rivals.
Two engines are available from launch, with the vast majority of British buyers set to opt for the excellent "TD4" diesel engine, which is actually a re-branded version of the Ford-Peugeot-Citroen joint venture engine. It's smooth, refined and respectably economical, although it's only available with a six-speed manual gearbox at present. A 3.2 litre six-cylinder petrol engine is also available but only very gentle use will get it anywhere near its claimed 25 mpg economy.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
3 star
Just like the original - perhaps too much so. We reckon it could start to look old before its time.
Handling
3 star
The steering is a bit too sharp and keen to react, keeping you busy on motorways, but otherwise the Freelander drives very nicely.
Comfort
4 star
Impressively refined for something this tall and boxy. Smooth and quiet on the motorway and comfortable over urban bumps, too.
Quality & Reliability
3 star
Still not as good as it should be. We were alarmed by some of the cheap-feeling parts in the cabin.
Performance
3 star
The 2.2 litre
Roominess
3 star
Not as big as segment rivals in terms of rear passenger space or boot accommodation.
Running Costs
4 star
The diesel's respectable fuel economy figures ensures the sensible money will be spent on it. Servicing is expensive, but residuals should be strong.
Value for money
3 star
High prices mean this Freelander has pretty much moved up a segment compared to the old model. Expensive compared to rivals - you really are paying for the badge.
