2002 Land Rover Freelander review from North America

Absolutely nothing has gone wrong so far. If there is anything negative to say about this vehicle, it would be the limited cargo space with the backseats up. Since we have two kids, those backseats won't be folded much often...

The inside door handles look like they were made for a Nissan Micra (cheap design and appearance).

Excellent and very solid vehicle. Driver feels on top of the world, especially in Winter driving conditions.

The kids love this car.

Bought this car in 2003 at a competitor dealership with only 10,000 km on the odometer. Looks really beautiful in deep forest green with its really long descending hood and high stance. Although I got the base "S" model, it was already equipped with add-ons like tubular sidebars and the full front bush guard which really gives the Freelander a nice, but serious "jungle" appearance (bring it on, Paris-Dakkar...)

Some control button placement oddities reported by mainstream auto critics? Really nothing to worry about. In my opinion, it only adds to the charm and uniqueness of this great high-end (but with a mini price) 4X4. After all, this is a Land Rover and is supposed to be different than American-made Jimmies and bland Asian Rav Fours... The electric-folding window in the back is really fun, just like in the old 77 Wrangler I used to own...

Living in Canada, I really enjoy the off-road capabilities of this great ice handler. Believe me, you will never stop moving with this beast, even if you bring it on a hockey rink... The special windshield defroster is also a nice touch in tune with the Canadian weather realities. Sitting high on very comfortable seats provide driver and companion with solid impression that they own the road (and backroads). Very well equipped 4x4 and despite what I had read about the poor quality of the standard sound system, I am actually pleased with its performance. Not actually something you would use to simulate Studio 54 during a beach party, but definitely more than decent in day to day use.

Performance? Not really in the full automatic mode... However, selecting sports or manual mode really improves the pleasure of driving this car. I wonder why the full automatic transmission mode was even retained for this car (probably to save on gas on highways) since the sports mode responds magnificently.

Overall, I love this unique-looking and solid Rover. (Speed) bumps or other road obstacles are barely felt with the Freelander. Before I bought the Freelander, I was really interested in the Suzuki XL-7 (Limited). I tried it and after I rode the Freelander, I understood what a solid ride really meant. The XL-7 Limited is not even in the same league (but shows a similar sticker price than the Freelander).

If you are looking for solidity, indisputable off-road capability, appearance and driving pleasure, do not even hesitate... The Freelander is for you.