Land Rover Freelander Station Wagon (03-06) - Review

The cabin is airy and large enough for three medium-sized adults to fit comfortably in the back. The vast choice of interior trim levels – available in cloth, Alcantara or leather upholstery and a trio of practical neutral tones – means that a combination can be found to perfectly suit your tastes. Air conditioning is standard on all but base models and the heater is effective on chilly mornings. The Sport model’s suspension makes for a less settled ride and can be disruptive – especially on poor road surfaces – though exterior noise isn’t a major problem, with the diesel being the most refined.

Although there’s a reasonable amount of space in the boot, the load depth is obstructed by the suspension, though the rear seats do split, fold and tumble to increase capacity. The twin gloveboxes are shallow and undersized, only suitable for storing loose change, an MP3 player or mobile phone (the driver’s side compartment houses the CD autochanger where specified) and door storage is disappointing, as the conveniently placed door bins are narrow and awkwardly shaped. However, there are map pockets on the back of the front seats and a handy roof-mounted luggage net for additional practicality, while there are plenty of cupholders throughout the cabin to prevent spillages, including two indented in the dashboard and one in either front door.

The high seats ensure a commanding view of the road, but even though the steering column is tilt adjustable, the seats cannot be lowered or elevated, so some drivers may find it difficult to configure a comfortable driving position. Visibility is clear and unobstructed, thanks to the large areas of glass and thin A-pillars. The revised two-tone dash looks much classier than previously, and the half-octagonal instrument pod, which houses the clearly laid-out dials, is chunky and ruggedly styled; in keeping with the overall theme of the cabin.