Land Rover Freelander 2 Review: Complete Buyer's Guide

The Land Rover Freelander 2 represents a unique combination of premium quality, off-road capabilities, and relative affordability in the compact crossover segment. This vehicle proves that a genuine British SUV can be not only prestigious but also a practical choice for active drivers.

Model History and Evolution

The second generation Land Rover Freelander debuted in 2006 and was produced until 2014. During this period, the model underwent two significant modernizations: the first occurred in 2010, the second in 2012. Externally, the changes were minimal, but the technical content was substantially improved.

The difference between vehicles produced before and after 2010 is particularly noticeable. Land Rover engineers eliminated many teething problems from the early production years, making the Freelander 2 significantly more reliable and refined. Examples from the final production years are considered most desirable among marque enthusiasts.

Design and Exterior

The external appearance of the Freelander 2 combines elegance and functionality. The vehicle inherited recognizable features of the Land Rover family: a massive radiator grille, high glazing line, and muscular body forms. At the same time, designers managed to create proportional and harmonious silhouette that doesn't appear cumbersome.

The technical solutions of the exterior deserve special attention. Beveled bumpers and genuinely large approach and departure angles emphasize the serious off-road ambitions of the vehicle. The practically flat underbody protects important transmission components, while robust subframes provide necessary structural rigidity.

Body quality deserves separate praise. Contrary to widespread misconception, the Freelander 2 body is made not from aluminum, but from high-quality steel. Cataphoretic priming and quality paintwork provide excellent corrosion resistance, as confirmed by years of owner observations.

Interior and Comfort

The Freelander 2 cabin makes a solid impression even on high-mileage vehicles. Trim materials are selected with quality, ergonomics thought through to the smallest details. The seats are particularly impressive - they are the true pride of the model. They provide a high commanding driving position, equally useful in dense city traffic and off-road.

The spacious cabin is comfortable for passengers of all height categories. The elevated seating position provides excellent road visibility, particularly valuable when driving over rough terrain. The cargo compartment is sufficiently capacious for a vehicle of this class.

Powertrains

Gasoline Engines

Until 2012, the Freelander 2 was equipped with a naturally aspirated Volvo gasoline engine with 3.2-liter displacement. This engine, while not distinguished by fuel economy, established itself as a reliable and durable unit. The timing chain can cover up to 300,000 kilometers without replacement.

The engine has characteristics important to consider during operation. The crankcase ventilation system requires attention - when oil leaks appear, check the oil separator mounting in the valve cover. The fuel pump is sensitive to overheating, so it's important to maintain sufficient fuel level in the tank.

In the final production years, some Freelander 2 versions received a turbocharged Ford EcoBoost gasoline engine. This unit is demanding regarding fuel quality and requires current ECU firmware for stable operation.

Diesel Engines

The most popular and widespread is the DW12 diesel engine - a joint development of Ford and PSA Peugeot Citroën. This 2.2-liter turbodiesel was produced in three power variants: 150, 160, and 190 horsepower.

Diesel engine reliability substantially increased after the 2010 modernization. Engineers eliminated the main problems of the early production period, making the engine significantly more stable and durable.

The turbocharger demonstrates commendable reliability and can serve up to 200,000 kilometers with proper maintenance. Regular replacement of not only engine oil but also air filter is of key importance. The condition of the filtering element should be monitored independently of the oil change schedule.

The only relatively weak point of the turbodiesel remains the intercooler hoses, which can burst or come off, accompanied by a loud bang and loss of power. Fortunately, this malfunction is easily remedied.

Transmission

Manual transmission is extremely rare but represents a good acquisition due to reliability and durability. The clutch can withstand the impressive torque of the diesel engine without problems.

The six-speed Aisin-Warner automatic transmission has an ambiguous reputation. Early examples from 2006-2008 were frankly unsuccessful, forcing Land Rover to conduct a recall campaign. New-generation units proved significantly better and can serve 250-300,000 kilometers without serious complaints.

All-Wheel Drive System

All-wheel drive versions of the Freelander 2 are equipped with a Haldex coupling. The system works by compressing a friction pack hydraulically when there's speed mismatch between driving and driven shafts, up to complete lockup.

Coupling service life directly depends on the vehicle's operating character. With active use of off-road capabilities, more frequent all-wheel drive system maintenance is required.

Chassis and Suspension

The Freelander 2 suspension uses a scheme traditional for the class: MacPherson struts front and multi-link setup rear. The construction is built on robust subframes, providing necessary strength and rigidity.

Chassis reliability significantly improved after the 2010 modernization, when weak points from early production years were strengthened. Modern examples can cover 100-120,000 kilometers before the first serious suspension overhaul.

The view of suspension from below leaves the most positive impressions. Massive subframes, quality materials, and thoughtful layout testify to a serious approach to chassis engineering.

Off-Road Capabilities

The Freelander 2 favorably distinguishes itself from many modern crossovers with genuine off-road capabilities. The Terrain Response system offers several driving modes adapted for various surface types.

Besides the usual road mode, the system includes three specialized off-road settings that genuinely help on rough terrain. The vehicle confidently handles dirt roads, sand, and rocky sections.

The geometric off-road capability of the Freelander 2 deserves special mention. Large approach and departure angles, sufficient ground clearance, and protected underbody allow overcoming obstacles inaccessible to ordinary crossovers.

Electronics and Equipment

Electronic systems of the Freelander 2 are generally reliable, though over time problems may arise with door and tailgate locks, as well as with the windshield wiper motor. These are rather minor inconveniences than serious problems.

Modern safety and comfort systems work stably. Air conditioning, audio system, and other equipment meet premium segment standards.

Maintenance and Operation

Proper maintenance is key to long and trouble-free Freelander 2 operation. Special attention should be paid to engine oil quality and timeliness of its replacement. For diesel versions, air filter condition is critically important.

The power steering system requires periodic fluid replacement. A new power steering reservoir often indicates that the previous owner cared about the vehicle's technical condition.

Purchase Selection

When choosing a Freelander 2, preference should be given to vehicles produced after 2010. These examples lack many problems of early versions and demonstrate significantly greater reliability.

Gasoline versions will bring fewer operational problems, though diesel variants are more economical and possess better torque characteristics. When choosing a diesel version, it's important to ensure quality maintenance of the vehicle in the past.

Conclusion

The Land Rover Freelander 2, especially versions after 2010, represents a successful combination of premium quality, genuine off-road capabilities, and relative reliability. This is one of the few compact crossovers that cannot be called a mall crawler.

The vehicle suits those who value British quality, need real off-road capabilities, and are prepared for more complex maintenance compared to mass-market models. With proper selection and competent operation, the Freelander 2 can provide many pleasant kilometers both on asphalt and off-road.

The old joke about Land Rover either going to service or coming from service doesn't apply to modern-year Freelander 2. This is a reliable and practical vehicle that deserves attention from all seeking a genuine SUV in compact format.

Find Your Pre-Owned Land Rover Freelander 2

We've collected second-hand listings from Facebook Marketplace, Kaidee, One2Car, and TaladRod all in one place. Compare prices, check seller types, and find the perfect match for your needs.

Find second-hand Land Rover Freelander 2 in Thailand here → Buy Land Rover Freelander 2 on Roddee PRO