New, greener Freelander revealed

Land Rover has revealed a greener version of the Freelander. The revised SUV will offer lower emissions when it goes on sale next month and the eco push will extend to the first ever two-wheel-drive version. The company says that it will offer better interiors, greater refinement and stronger performance.

 

A revised version of the PSA-sourced 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine is at the heart of the revised line-up. It’s now available in two states of tune — 148bhp and 187bhp — and both specs have 2kgm more torque than the outgoing 158bhp motor. The changes to the 2.2-litre motor include a variable-vane turbocharger and a reprogrammed ECU, helping it to meet the stricter emissions rules.

 

The 148bhp TD4 comes with a manual gearbox as standard; the more powerful model, badged SD4, is available only with an automatic ’box. Land Rover claims the entry-level unit matches the outgoing engine’s performance, while offering lower CO2 emissions (165g/km instead of 179g/km). The SD4 emits 185g/km but accelerates from 0-100kph in 8.7sec — almost two seconds quicker than the old car — and reaches a top speed of 190kph, an increase of 10kph.

 

The biggest news is the arrival of a front-drive Freelander next January. Badged eD4, it is available only with a six-speed manual ’box and the 148bhp diesel engine. The reduction in weight from losing 4WD, and the addition of automatic stop-start, help the eD4 to deliver 47.2mpg and 158g/km of CO2.

 

Styling tweaks include a new front bumper with revised foglights, a new grille, different headlights and tail-lights, a full-width tailgate appliqué and fresh designs of 18” and 19” alloy wheels.

 

The interior features revised instrument dials, four new styles of seat upholstery and the option of a Premium Pack that includes Windsor leather upholstery, covered centre stowage and greater adjustability in the seats.