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

Review by Parkers on
Freelander is ideally suited to upmarket 4x4 buyers who want serious off-road capabilities in a compact package. It may be Land Rover’s entry-level model, but it still wears the best badge in the business. It’s the finest off-road performer for its category and age and although fuel economy is a little eye watering around town, it’s a decent car to drive around town. Freelander has been on sale since 1997, but this 2003 facelift gave it a smoother look with new headlamps and an upgraded interior. As well as the five-door station wagon, Freelander is also available as a three-door, sold as Hardback and Softback.
2.5 out of 5

Safety

Buyers often choose off-roaders for their perceived safety, but that is not always the case. Freelander is only fitted with driver and passenger airbags as standard, and other ‘bags aren't even available as options. Freelander only fared averagely in the Euro NCAP occupant crash test ratings, scoring three out of five, while the pedestrian rating only received one star - due to the hard bumper and bonnet - though this is average for a robust off-roader. For security measures it gets an alarm, immobiliser and security deadlocks as standard.

NCAP Test

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Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Visit Euro NCAP for more info

  • Adult Occupant Rating

    3 out of 5
  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    1 out of 5
3 out of 5

Reliability

Head gasket failure is common in 1.8 models, so try to avoid this engine of you can. Gladly, there are plenty of owners who enjoy trouble-free ownership but we do hear of continuing niggles, especially in early models. Before purchasing be sure to check for off-road abuse – a good rule of thumb to follow when purchasing any off-roader.

Car check problem points

Body

Damage from off-roading.

Engine/Gearbox

Head gasket on 1.8 and transmission noises.

Other

No problems reported.

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