Freelander gets new eco engines

Land Rover Freelander buyers now have twice the choice, with two new engines available on a face-lifted model, which goes on sale at the end of September.

The car now comes with either a 148bhp or a 187bhp 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine the current version comes only with a 158bhp 2.2-litre.

148bhp TD4
In the entry-level model, CO2 emissions tumble two company car tax bands to 165g/km, and the new version is capable of 45.6mpg an 8% improvement over the outgoing model.

Despite the 10bhp drop in power compared with the current version, torque is up, which, Land Rover claims, improves engine response and towing capabilities. Performance matches that of the current version.

A six-speed manual gearbox and Stop-Start comes as standard, however an auto gearbox, without the Stop-Start technology, is a 1515 option.

At 21,695, the entry-level model is also slightly cheaper than the current car. Land Rover says it has 'realigned' its prices to reflect the greater choice open to Freelander buyers. The most expensive model, the 187bhp SD4 HSE now starts at 35,510.

187bhp SD4
The flagship Freelander has an average economy of 40.4mpg and emits 185g/km; 0-60mph is 8.7 seconds and top speed is 118mph. It comes with only a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Both versions have a new front bumper and grille, headlight and rear light clusters and a revised interior that includes revamped instrument dials and four new styles of seats.

A two-wheel drive Land Rover
Land Rover traditionalists brace yourselves. In January, Freelander buyers will be able to opt for a two-wheel drive eD4 version. Billed as the most efficient Land Rover, the Freelander eD4 averages 47.2mpg and emits 158g/km. Prices will be announced later, however Land Rover managing director Phil Popham said:

'The new Freelander 2 eD4 moves Land Rover into the hugely popular and fiercely contested two wheel-drive SUV market.

'The European market for two-wheel drive SUVs represents 23% of the segment and we intend to compete strongly here.

'A 2WD option is just one way in which we are developing our vehicles' efficiency whilst adding to the Land Rover range and expanding our appeal to a broader group of customers.

'We will continue to make the 'world's finest all-terrain vehicles' for those customers who require 4WD but will also now offer an alternative.'

Land Rover Freelander prices
Model
TD4 S
TD4 GS
TD4 XS
TD4 HSE
SD4 GS
SD4 XS
SD4 HSEPrice
21,695
24,995
28,495
32,995
27,510
31,010
35,510