THE Land Rover Freelander outsells all other smaller off-roaders and there are loads out there to choose from.
It's made in the true Land Rover go-anywhere tradition, but also performs well on the road, and is easy to drive.
Reliability is not good in earlier models so buy very carefully, and walk away from any which don’t have service history.
The suspension gives ride and comfort similar to those of a car but there is much more roll – as with almost all off-roaders, and corners cannot be taken as fast as in a saloon or hatch.
A number of engines have been used since the Freelander was launched. Earliest models had either the Rover 1.8 petrol with 118bhp, or the 2.0-litre Rover turbo diesel with 95.
This was replaced in 2000 with a special version of the much quieter and more powerful BMW 2.0-litre unit. At the same time, a range topping 2.5-litre V6 petrol was added, with standard five speed auto gearbox.
Interior
Three body styles are available - based on the same long wheelbase - Softback and Hardback three door and the Station Wagon five door.
The Softback has a folding rear roof and the SW has space for most families and all their baggage.
FAST FACTS 1.8 petrol.
Price: Pay £2,700 for a ’99 T-reg Xi five door, £6,300 for an ’03 03-reg ES five door or £10,000 for an ’05 05-reg SE three door.
Mechanical: 115bhp, 1796cc, 4 cyl petrol driving all four wheels via 5 speed manual gearbox
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