Land Rover updates Freelander for 2011
Land Rover has given its popular Freelander 2 off-roader some key updates for 2011 including a new 2.2-litre diesel engine with either 150bhp or 190bhp, a fresh exterior plus - for the first time - a two-wheel drive model which will be capable of averaging 47.2mpg.
It's the first Land Rover not to be four-wheel drive and will also be the most efficient model the firm has ever produced, with CO2 emissions of 158g/km. Called the Freelander 2 eD4, it is only available with a six-speed manual gearbox featuring Stop/Start technology as standard and uses a new 2.2-litre diesel engine with 150bhp. Like other manufacturers, Land Rover realises that many buyers like the practicality of a 4x4 but don't need four-wheel drive.
The new turbo diesel engine is also available in the 4WD TD4 150bhp model featuring a manual transmission and intelligent Stop/Start technology as standard (an automatic gearbox without Stop/Start is available as an option), or the new SD4 model delivering 190bhp which is available exclusively with the automatic gearbox.
This engine is quieter, more efficient and both derivatives have 20Nm more torque than the outgoing engine, which means better engine response and more mid-range power for towing. CO2 emissions have been significantly reduced to 165g/km and 185g/km respectively while fuel economy has also improved.
Performance remains strong though and the 190bhp Freelander SD4 accelerates from 0 to 60mph in 8.7 seconds while the 150bhp TD4 manual and automatic versions match the performance of their predecessors. As well as being upgraded from EU4 to EU5, the upgraded engine is fitted with a catalysed diesel particulate filter as standard and is now compatible with 10 per cent biodiesel rather than 5 per cent.
The exterior of the revised Freelander 2 gets a new front bumper incorporating revised front fog lamps, a new grille finish, improved headlights and tail lamps, plus there are new 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheel styles. There are three new colour schemes too - Kosrae Green, Baltic Blue and Fuji White.
The cabin has revised instrument dials and there are four new seat styles with the option of a Premium Pack that includes Windsor Leather upholstery, an 8/6 way electric seat, plus premium carpet mats.
The 4WD TD4 and SD4 models are on sale in the UK from the end of September with prices starting at £21,695 for the S specification. The top SD4 HSE automatic will set you back £35,510 while the 2WD eD4 model will be available in the UK from January 2011, although prices haven't yet been announced.
Click here to read our 2010 Paris Motor Show A-Z guide.
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