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As with all other Land Rovers – Discovery, Range Rover and Defender – vehicle safety has to be designed to ensure optimum efficiency both on and off-road. With the new Freelander, for example, key mechanicals, as before, are tucked safely out of the way. This means that the Freelander’s steering rack is mounted high on the bulkhead, unlike that on most rivals, keeping it well away from off-road dangers. And the front wings are made from dent-resistant thermoplastic, which can shrug off low speed bumps, an example of Land Rover’s innate understanding of the special needs of the 4x4 market. With its deep windows, wheel-at-each-corner stance and upright bearing, it has always been claimed that the Freelander is an easy vehicle to park. But to improve parking ease even further, Park Distance Control is being offered for the first time to prevent vehicle damage when manoeuvring into tight spaces. Anti-lock brakes, power steering and a range of electronic traction controls are all standard. These include Land Rover’s patented and award-winning Hill Descent Control that automatically moderates speed down the most slippery slope, ensuring that the driver stays in control. Meanwhile, Electronic Traction Control works in conjunction with the four-wheel drive, meaning that if a wheel should spin the power is instantly diverted to the wheel that still has grip, helping the driver to move away. The brakes are moderated by Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, a computer-controlled system that ensures that braking is automatically applied to maximum effect. It helps cut stopping distances, boosting safety. Unlike many rivals, the Freelander’s 4x4 drive operates full-time so all-wheel drive security is constantly there to help and protect, whenever the driver needs it. The new, twin-pocket clear lens headlamps are similar to those of the Freelander’s big brother, the Range Rover, and provide a higher light intensity – improved by 70%. At the rear, the tail lamps have been repositioned higher on the rear bumper, improving their visibility and reducing the likelihood of them being obscured by road grime or off-roading dust. Finally, twin airbags are now standard across the Freelander range of three and five-door models, each featuring a choice of six trim levels. Previously, while high-specced models had twin airbags, there was only a driver’s airbag on lower trim derivatives. |
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