A Gripping Show

From Snowy Roads To Sand Dunes, The Freelander Will Impress You With Its Performance, Writes Bill Caven

LAST week’s blizzards may have made for very tricky driving conditions, but one group of motorists would have rather perversely welcomed the snow.

Yes, at last the serious off-road brigade had the opportunity to reap the benefits of their investment.

While the country effectively slid to a grinding halt in places, the 4×4 mob were out and about, happily going about their business.

There are those who hate the sight of so-called Chelsea Tractors, but sales of SUVs continue to grow as more and more families recognise the safety benefits they bring.

And last week these big brutes got a rare chance to prove their real strength.

When you are faced with snow-covered roads, four-wheel drive provides incredible grip, which gives your confidence a massive boost.

It has to be said, though, that there are serious 4x4s and then there are soft-roaders that would struggle to mount a pavement.

The latest-generation Land Rover Freelander unquestionably falls into the first category.

Not only can it tackle snowy roads, but it can also cope with the complete opposite: sand dunes. I got to experience this during the car’s press launch in Morocco, when part of the route involved taking it down to the seaside.

Land Rover bosses have every confidence in the capabilities of their baby – and not without reason.

It can boldly go where many others can only dream about and achieves it with style and panache at the same time.

The Freelander has the ability to ascend and descend some of the toughest terrains imaginable. It has the sure-footedness of a jungle cat and can claw its way up most climbs without even pausing for breath.

Simply point and steer as the Land Rover proceeds to conquer anything put in its way.

The chassis and off-road system is sturdy, ensuring that nothing is impossible.

Refined, comfortable and built to last, it is the leader of the pack by some margin.

It has picked up more awards across the globe than any other vehicle in its class.

Available in petrol or diesel guise, increasing numbers of buyers are rather wisely opting for the oil burner.

Don’t think for one minute that they have to put up with a clattering old smelly engine under the bonnet.

The 2.2-litre TD4 is an absolute delight as it delivers 158bhp and offers plenty of low-end torque and power.

Unlike some rivals, it is not a gas guzzler and will clock up more than 37 miles to the gallon.

The most improved aspect of the latest model is the interior, which looks really classy with its chunky controls and Range Rover-style dashboard lay-out.

There is plenty of space throughout the cabin, although some taller folk might find the rear legroom a bit of a squeeze.

Factfile: Model: Land Rover Freelander 2.2 TD4 Engine: 2.2-litre turbo diesel Power: 158bhp 0-60mph: 10.9 seconds Fuel economy: 37.7mpg combined Warranty: Three years/unlimited miles Price: £20,960 to £30,960 On sale: Now

This article was taken from: Daily Record

This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 20th, 2008 at 9:27 am and is filed under Range Rover. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.