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.