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

Equipment

All models have full-time front-biased four-wheel drive, intermediate reduction drive and independent suspension. XE models add alloy wheels, ABS with Hill Descent Control (optional on other models) and uprated audio; XE Station Wagons have a load area cover. Xi and XDi Station Wagons have metallic paintwork, 15" alloy wheels, air conditioning and load space cover. Second generation range launched Sept 2000. 1.8i engine continues, plus a choice of BMW 2.0 Td4 turbo-diesel and 2.5 V6 petrol engines. S models have ABS, power steering, remote central locking, volumetric and perimetric alarms, electric front windows, six-speaker radio/cassette player and heated door mirrors. GS models add twin airbags, 60/40 split folding rear seat 15" alloy wheels, a six-speaker stereo with remote steering wheel controls and air conditioning. ES has 16" alloy wheels, a CD autochanger, heated front seats and an electric sunroof. Minor revisions in September 2001: black bumpers and black exterior detailing; black interior trim available; new audio systems and optional factory-fitted satellite navigation.

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Trim

Equipment

Key:

Standard item

Optional item

  • 3x3 point rear seat belts
  • ABS
  • Air conditioning
  • Alarm
  • Alloy wheels
  • Audio remote
  • CD
  • CD Multichanger
  • Cloth seat trim
  • Driver`s airbag
  • Electric mirrors
  • Folding rear seats
  • Front electric windows
  • Full size spare wheel
  • Heated mirrors
  • Heated seats
  • Leather seat trim
  • Lumbar support
  • Metallic Paint
  • Partial leather seat trim
  • PAS
  • Passenger`s airbag
  • Remote locking
  • Roof rails
  • Steel wheels
  • Steering wheel rake adjustment
  • Traction control
Standard Trim Anniversary 50 Maasai S Xdi Xi Maasai Mara XE Di XEi Serengeti GS KALAHARI ES
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