2009 Land Rover FreeLander 2 Review
January 9, 2009 by Alborz Fallah
As I was deflating the tyres numerous people asked if I was going to take “that toy” on the beach and whether or not I wanted their help when I got stuck.
It got to a point that I had turned down so many offers that I figured if I actually did get stuck, I was going to die on the beach to preserve my pride!
We began our assault on the beach, but with the car as clean as could be, it wasn’t exactly fitting in with the whole tough off-roader image.
The FreeLander 2 crossed the river surrounded by folks in Japanese 4WDs, most of who were looking at it as if it was about to somehow get stuck – while it was standing still! They all seemed to forget this thing has a 210mm ground clearance and wading depth of 500mm.
We disembarked the ferry and slowly made our way towards the beach. Following, of course, a Mitsubishi Pajero.
Before we began, sand mode was engaged, this is one of four modes (general driving – grass/gravel/snow – mud and ruts – sand) available for different terrain. Playing with the controls lets the computer work out the best way to distribute power and torque while controlling the traction systems.
Changing the mode affects the FreeLander 2’s dynamic stability control (DSC), hill descent control (HDC), electronic traction control and ABS systems as well.
I had one of the first Freelanders a 98 or 99. 2l Turbo Diesel. Was the best car I have ever owned. Yes it had some problems but they were minor and lets face it every car has issues. There has not been another car that has equalled that Freelander for comfort, drivability or fuel consumption. Best 21st gift I got myself. While it certainly couldnt compare on the beach to my Patrol it certainly could go far more places then anybody gave it credit for. More places then my sister in laws xtrail thats for sure! I am now looking to get out of my TI Patrol and am going back to the Freelander. They are a fantastic car!
Following Bret’s request for info on the pulling power of the FL2…can anyone update us on how the FL2 copes with pulling 1.5 tonne or more?