Land Rover Freelander Softback (97-03) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Last Updated: 25 April 2007
Freelander competes with the CR-V and RAV-4. Softback is the one with a detachable fold-down hood and removable targa style roof panels; it is the macho, fun choice. 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 out of 5

Other Land Rover reviews

3 out of 5

Comfort

Only two adults for the back and for only for short trips. Good headroom, but the front seats feel short of both height and length.

3 out of 5

Practicality

Like the three-door, the softback only offers enough luggage room for a couple of shopping bags. The rear seats need to be folded for larger loads. A few cubby holes.

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How does the boot space compare?

Land Rover Freelander Softback (97-03)
473 litres
320 litres
150 litres
3 out of 5

Behind the wheel

Softback can be a bit tricky High-up driving position gives a good view of the road. Some of the switches are placed in odd places and you may have to hunt around for some of the buttons. Some of the switchgear is very poorly placed and of variable quality and the driving position feels compromised for taller drivers