2002 Land Rover Freelander: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Freelander is the first compact SUV from Britain's luxury 4x4 maker. This unibody 4-dr wagon uses a 175-hp V6 and 5-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard; it doesn't have low-range gearing but includes traction control and hill-descent control designed to limit speed when going down steep grades. ABS is standard, but side airbags are unavailable. Other standard features include power windows, air conditioning, heated power-folding mirrors, and a class-exclusive power up/down rear window in a swing-out cargo door. Base S, SE, and top-line HSE models are offered. Standard on SE and HSE are leather upholstery and 17-inch wheels vs. 16s. The HSE includes a navigation system, plus a power sunroof that's optional on SE. Land Rover is owned by Ford. The British-built Freelander has slightly larger exterior dimensions than the Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute, but is an older, unrelated design.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buys, the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Mazda Tribute don't offer true off-road ability, they do mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction. The V6 Tribute/Escape offers more power, comfort, and space than any in its class.

Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, but it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.