Land Rover Freelander Tested Nov 2006

Rating Quick Summary Recommended. Beneath the familiar styling the Freelander is all-new - and vastly improved.

Full Road Test

The Freelander has grown up, with the all-new second generation version bigger and better in every regard than the somewhat disappointing original.

The design is very familiar - possibly too familiar. Land Rover has opted to produce a car that looks very like the model it replaces, something the company might come to regret if this Freelander starts to look stale before its time.

At least the cabin is unambiguously better than that of the original car, featuring similar design themes to the Range Rover and Discovery. The dashboard is clearly laid out and an integrated full-colour satnav display screen is now an option. It looks good and the controls are all easy to find, but in some areas build quality feels a bit flimsy compared to the high standards set by segment rivals. There's a reasonably amount of space for four adults, but legroom is a bit tight in the back for taller occupants.

The Freelander drives very well thanks to excellent noise insulation and a compliant chassis, both of which make for relaxed long-distance cruising. It's not a particularly sporty drive, but roll angles are kept under control and the Freelander remains safe and predictable under hard cornering. Off-road ability is excellent, something which will help distinguish the baby Landie from its road-biased "soft roader" rivals.

Now that the V6 petrol has been dropped, the only choice is the excellent "TD4" diesel engine, which is actually a re-branded version of the Ford-Peugeot-Citroen joint venture engine. It's smooth, refined and respectably economical, given the 1770 kg it has to propel.

Breakdown Styling Just like the original - perhaps too much so. We reckon it could start to look old before its time. Handling The steering is a bit too sharp and keen to react, keeping you busy on motorways, but otherwise the Freelander drives very nicely. Comfort Impressively refined for something this tall and boxy. Smooth and quiet on the motorway and comfortable over urban bumps, too. Quality + reliability Still not as good as it should be. We were alarmed by some of the cheap-feeling parts in the cabin. Performance The 2.2 litre Roominess Not as big as segment rivals in terms of rear passenger space or boot accommodation. Running costs The diesel's respectable fuel economy figures ensures the sensible money will be spent on it. Servicing is expensive, but residuals should be strong. Value for money High prices mean this Freelander has pretty much moved up a segment compared to the old model. Expensive compared to rivals - you really are paying for the badge. Stereo / Sat nav The standard audio system works well and the optional upgrade is brilliant. Satnav is clear and easy to use, although a pricey option.

Need to know JD Power stars Replacement Date: 2014 We like: 1) Smooth driving manners. 2) Excellent diesel engine. 3) Off-road ability. We don't like: 1) Cheap feeling bits in the cabin. 2) More expensive than obvious rivals. 3) Pointless petrol engine. Best and worst: Most fun: TD4 SE Most sensible: TD4 S Worst: 3.2 HSE