Land Rover Freelander 2 SD4 2011 Review

WE turn the spotlight on automotive's newest and brightest stars, as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. Ultimately, however, there is only one question that really needs answering  would you buy one?

What is it?

Land Rover's baby four-wheel drive, soon to be joined by an incredibly chic Range Rover for around the same price. Now that's going to set the cat amongst the pigeons. The more conservatively styled Freelander looks like a smaller version of the incredibly exey Range Rover Vogue.

How much?

The price has gone up a bit. It kicks off from $49,990, but this is the top of the line model from $65,854 with some options that it take it over $70K.

What are the competitors?

BMWs X3, Audi Q5. Benz doesn't have a model in the luxury compact sports utility vehicle segment not in this country anyway. Not to mention Land Rover's forthcoming Evoque.

What's under the bonnet?

This one gets a more powerful version of the 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel.with 140kW of power and an impressive 420Nm of torque.

How does it go?

We still reckon Kia's 2.0/2.2-litre diesel is smoother. Land Rover hooks it up with a a six-speed Japanese Aisin auto. The combination has turbo lag, but not enough to worry about.

Is it economical?

The auto is rated at 7.0 litres/100km. We clocked up 700km at a rate of 7.9 litres/100km.

Is it `green?'

Gets 2.5 stars from the Governments Green Vehicle Guide, at least the previous model did. This one uses less fuel and produces less carbon dioxide so its probably going to do better. The hybrid Prius in comparison gets five.

Is it safe?

Yes. Gets a full five stars for crash safety. Seven airbags are standard, including a driver's knee bag.

Is it comfortable?

We've always had a bit of a soft spot for the Freelander (not the first one). It looks fantastic, provides comfortable seating for four adults and the cabin is quiet enough to facilitate easy conversation between the front and rear seats. This one gets leather, electric seat adjustment as well as heated seats.

What's it like to drive?

The high seating position and torquey diesel engines make this one a snack to drive.

Is it value for money?

Yes and remember although it does not have low range four wheel-drive, this vehicle still has some serious off-road ability, with terrain response to tailor the drive to different conditions mud, gravel or snow.

Would we buy one?

You bet. We had one of these cars for a couple of months and it was easy to live with. Not only is it practical it will impress the neighbours.