New in the U.S.
in 2002, the car-derived Freelander had fully independent suspension and no low-range gearing.
Ride and handling weren't bad, but road noise was pronounced and its thirsty, underachieving 2.5-liter V6 and rough-shifting five-speed automatic failed to impress.
The seats are comfortable but controls are awkward.
Besides all-wheel drive it had four-wheel traction control and a hill-descent system that controls vehicle speed on steep slopes.
It proved capable of tackling on- and off-road duties with equal aplomb.
A convertible was added for 2003.
2005 was the Freelander's last year. Its LR2 replacement, introduced for 2008, uses a Volvo 3.2-liter, inline six-cylinder and six-speed automatic transmission.
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