2002 Land Rover Freelander ES TD5 2.0L diesel from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A great car, no issues, extremely reliable and at home both around town and on the highway

Faults:

Fuse for power window failed once (dealer fixed under warranty)

CD seek button failed once (CD unit replaced by dealer under warranty)

General Comments:

Overall, fantastic car with no issues at all. Engine and automatic transmission are great.

Rather functional dash with typical big "click" buttons - nothing digital here! Part of the "Land Rover" image, but not for everyone.

Handles corners well for a 4x4 although not as good as the Discovery which is surprising (as the Disco is a much bigger car).

TD5 BMW engine is superb with good gas mileage.

Engine noise / road noise loud on motorways over 70MPH.

Great headroom and seating, very comfortable in any seat with plenty of room, rests and pockets for storage.

Lacks boot space depth (although tall) unless the seats are down, will get 2 big suitcases in stood up.

So many accessories you can really make it your "own".

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st October, 2004

2002 Land Rover Freelander SE V6 from North America

Summary:

Nice

General Comments:

Despite getting less than favorable reviews in various publications, I cannot disagree more, even though I am 6.2" I feel comfortable, and that is considering that my model is installed with a sunroof. In regards to the interior design, even though it might not be as modern and spaceship like as many of it's competitors, I think that it is functional, timeless and easy to get used to. I never had problem finding anything. Some people complain that the hood release is in the passenger side, but considering that this car is made in the UK, where the right side is the drivers side, I would not find any problem with that. The leather seats are very comfortable, the V6 engine has more than enough power to negotiate the rough streets of LA, the AC feels fine, steering is solid, the standard sound system is more than adequate for my use. This vehicle feels very solid, it handles great and looks great. My only complaint is the loud fan noise, and the occasional indecisiveness of the transmission while driving uphill on curvy roads. This is not a problem though, as it is very easy to switch to the sport mode while driving. I really like this car, I appreciate all the handy little details that is put into the design.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 17th October, 2004

2002 Land Rover Freelander S 2.5 liter V6 from North America

Summary:

A great, small "Cute-Ute", but does not have what it takes to be a true Land Rover.

Faults:

Transmission had to be replaced at 27,000 miles.

The transmission replaced at 27,000 miles was re-built and not new, it failed at 36,000 miles and this time the dealer ordered a new transmission.

Right rear passenger door strap needed to be replaced.

Starter cylinder failed.

Power door lock on left rear passenger door failed.

General Comments:

Lacks true low-range gearing.

Overall torque of 177 pounds-feet is a bit low for off-road use.

Extremely solid frame.

Very agile on road and quite capable in light-moderate off-road use.

Freelander's off-road ability does not live up to the Land Rover name.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st August, 2004

2002 Land Rover Freelander S V6 from North America

Summary:

This SUV had black paint, but it was a real lemon

Faults:

Had an oil leak at 25 miles.

Bad transmission software.

Cracked coolant overflow bottle (3 times)

Bad thermostat gasket.

Blown intake manifold gasket. (It was in the shop for 2 1/2 weeks)

Piece of roof rack fell off. (It took 2 months to get a new one)

AC needing charging. (still is not cold enough on hot days).

Had constant coolant smell problem. (The dealer refused to fix)

General Comments:

Before you buy any LR, check the April 2004 Consumer Reports magazine.

It was comfortable and fun to drive.

Very good in the snow.

Poor ergonomics. Large diameter steering wheel uncomfortable.

Dealer service very high ($90 oil changes)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 19th August, 2004

18th May 2005, 13:24

I Purchased a used 2002 Land Rover Freelander Se. It is one of the most unreliable, problem filled vehicles I have ever had the displeasure of owning. I need to rent a room at the dealership for the amount of time I spend there. Land Rover should be ashamed of themselves for pushing such a poor quality vehicle on the public.