Land Rover Freelander Station Wagon (97-03) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Freelander is the junior member of 4x4’s most aristocratic family – Land Rover. Range Rover lords it over premium 4x4s; Discovery splashes through swamps or strolls through suburbia in equal style, while Defender's genes have made it a faithful retainer on the country estate for generations. Blue blood doesn’t necessarily confer special virtues – and Freelander has been known to slip up. It's a more complete package than 'lifestyle' 4x4s like RAV-4 and CR-V, with three body styles and lots of options. But it's more expensive and less reliable – rattly interior trim, faulty electrics and blown engines are some common faults.
3.5 out of 5

Other Land Rover reviews

4 out of 5

Performance

All models are equally happy in the country and around town. The 177 bhp 2.5 V6 is the performance choice with a 0-60 time of just over ten seconds, but it's thirsty, giving just 22.7 mpg on the Combined test. The four cylinder 1.8 is a lot less powerful (118 bhp), but offers greater economy and adequate performance figures. Diesels are particularly frugal for their class. The modern BMW-sourced 2.0 Td4 is the best all-rounder, with a Combined fuel consumption figure of 37.2 mpg and petrol-like characteristics. The less refined 2.0 di was produced until 2000 and returns 36.2 mpg.

3 out of 5

Handling

Almost car-like to drive, Freelander makes it a credible day-to-day runabout. On normal roads it’s stable and doesn’t roll much, with a composed and well-controlled ride. The five-door can be awkward to park because its size and the high window lines hinder visibility. 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.