Freelander is a true off-roader

Nov 2 2009 Peter Hayward

THE Land Rover Freelander outsells all other smaller off-roaders and there are loads out there to choose from so make sure you get the best - with full service history.

It is a true Land Rover and will go just about anywhere but it also makes a good road car and is very easy to drive.

Reliability is not good in earlier models so buy very carefully, and walk away from any which are suspect.

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.

The model built between 2003 and 2006 had a choice of 1.8 115bhp, 2.5 V6 174bhp automatic or by far the best choice, a BMW-sourced 2.0-litre diesel turbo with 110bhp.

This diesel offers good performance along with excellent economy and is very smooth and quiet - as you would expect from BMW.

Interior

Three bodystyles are available - based on the same long stable 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

Land Rover Freelander

Price: Pay £5,600 for a, '03 03-reg Softback, £7,950 for an '05 54-reg SE Hardback, or £12,190 for an '06 06-reg HSE station wagon.

Mechanical: 110bhp, 1951cc, 4 cylinder diesel engine driving four wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox

Max speed: 106mph

0-62mph: 13.2 seconds

Combined mpg: 37

Insurance group: 10

CO2 emissions: 205g/km

Marks: 9/10

Main rival: Nissan X-Trail