Land Rover Freelander Hardback (97-03) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Freelander competes with the CR-V and RAV-4 in the 'lifestyle' 4x4 arena. It offers more than its rivals, with three body styles, good off-road ability and lots of optional kit. However, it also costs more than its direct competitors. It's good to drive for a 4x4 (especially the Td4 and V6 models) and both fashionable and prestigious thanks to its Land Rover heritage. The only real downside was patchy quality control on early models, resulting in variable build quality and so-so reliability.
3.5 out of 5

Other Land Rover reviews

2.5 out of 5

Performance

All Freelander models are excellent on the motorway and in town; V6 is the performance choice, but the Td4 is the better overall package; Hill Descent Control makes up for lack of dual-ratio gearbox. Both the V6 and Td4 are very smooth and refined; Td4 offers economy, though, and commands the highest prices on the used market.

3 out of 5

Handling

In three-door form, Freelander makes a nimble, credible day-to-day runabout. It’s stable on normal roads and it doesn’t roll much, with a composed and well-controlled ride. Off-road performance upholds Land Rover family expectations; it doesn’t disappoint under most conditions, though there’s no dual-ratio gearbox (the Hill Descent Control system makes up for this) and ground clearance is quite low for a serious 4x4.