Land Rover Freelander 2 Sterling Edition

Freelander 2 Sterling Edition Review

JLR, the fully owned subsidiary of the Tata Motors has launched the exclusive Sterling Edition of its popular SUV model, Freenlander 2 in the country. This latest variant is equipped with a 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine that has the ability to churn out 147.9bhp in combination with 420Nm of peak torque. This newly introduced Land Rover Freelander 2 Sterling Edition trim hosts a series of cosmetic features like dark atlas grille along with front and rear apron and a single tailpipe with bright finish. In addition to these, this new trim also gets new dark atlas fenders along with a set of 17-inch alloy wheels with anthracite finish, which gives a classy look to the side profile. The updates are mostly regarding its exteriors, while its interiors, features and technical specifications remains to be unchanged. It is introduced on the mid level SE platform and is equipped with advanced features like terrain response system, cruise control and an automatic climate control system with air filtration. On the other hand, it also has crucial safety aspects including roll stability control, airbags and dynamic stability control. This vehicle is introduced to celebrate the company's five-year presence in India and is made available in limited numbers only. It will be competing with the likes of Audi Q5, Mercedes Benz ML Class and BMW X3 in the Indian automobile market.

Exteriors:

The exteriors of this 'Sterling Edition' comes with a number of additional features like a front and rear apron, a brand new set of alloy wheels and a single black finished tail pipe. Its frontage has a massive radiator grille with a lot of chrome treatment. It is flanked by a large headlight cluster that is incorporated with xenon headlamps with LED day time running lights including power wash function. The body colored bumper has a wide air dam for cooling the powerful diesel engine and it is flanked by a pair of bright fog lamps. The large bumper is embossed with 'Land Rover' lettering on it. Its windscreen is made of toughened glass and integrated with a set of rain sensing wipers. The side profile has flared up wheel arches, which are fitted with an elegant set of 17 inch five-split spoke alloy wheels. These rims are further covered with 235/65 R17 sized tubeless radial tyres, which ensures a superior grip on any road conditions. Its power adjustable outside rear view mirrors have heating function along with approach lamp. Its rear end has a body colored bumper and a large boot lid with variant badging. The windshield is integrated with a defogger along with a wash and wipe function as well.

Interiors:

This Land Rover Freelander 2 Sterling Edition has a roomy internal cabin. It is incorporated with well cushioned seats, which are covered with 'Grained' leather upholstery and also have adjustable head restraints. The multifunctional steering wheel is mounted with various control buttons. It is bestowed with a number of aspects like front and rear carpet mats, auto dimming inside rear view mirror, rear center armrests with storage box and cup holders. It has an advanced climate control function with air filtration that regulated the cabin air. Apart from these, the leather covered steering wheel, chrome finished inside door handles and an advanced center console, which gives the internal cabin a decent look.

Engine and Performance:

This variant is powered by a 2.2-litre TD4 diesel engine that has a displacement capacity of 2179cc. It has 4-inline cylinders with a total of 16-valves that receives fuel through a high pressure direct injection system. This power plant has the ability to produce a maximum power of 147.9bhp at 4000rpm that results in a commanding torque output of 420Nm at just 1750rpm, which is rather impressive. This motor is skilfully mated with a six speed automatic transmission gearbox that works in collaboration with Command Shift to distribute torque output to all its four wheels in a 4WD layout. It takes only about 11.2 seconds for this mill to break the 100 Kmph speed barrier and can reach a maximum speed of 181 Kmph, which is quite good.

Braking and Handling:

Both the front and rear wheels are equipped with a set of sturdy disc brakes, which are further loaded with superior brake calipers. This mechanism is further assisted by anti lock braking system and electronic brake force distribution and brake assist function. In addition to these, the car maker has also integrated roll stability control, electronic traction and brake control system including hill descent control, which adds to it safety levels.

Comfort Features:

This Land Rover Freelander 2 Sterling Edition is available with several comfort aspects that gives a pleasurable driving experience. The well cushioned seats offer maximum comfort, while providing enough leg room to its occupants. It is blessed with Meridian Audio system that keeps the passengers entertained all through the journey. This music system supports USB port, iPod as well as Bluetooth telephone connectivity and has eleven speakers as well. It also has a navigation system which comes with 17.78cm high resolution touchscreen display. The front seats are electrically adjustable and has memory function for the driver's seat. The multi functional steering wheel is mounted with several switches which is quite convenient for the driver. It has power adjustable external mirrors which are foldable as well. It has rear center armrest that comes with storage compartment and two cup holders. In addition to these, this trim includes vanity mirror, front door puddle lamps, rear view camera and seat mounted arm rests. The instrument panel is equipped with many functions and displays several notifications.

Safety Features:

The car maker has loaded this latest edition with a number of crucial safety aspects that offers protection to its passengers and this utility vehicle as well. There are dual front airbags for driver and front passenger along with head curtain airbags. Its efficient braking system is assisted by anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist. It minimizes the chances of vehicle from skidding and strengthens this mechanism. It also has cornering brake control, dynamic stability control and electronic traction control. The list further includes driver's knee airbag, hill descent control, roll stability control, driver seat belt warning lamp and a pair of front fog lamps, which further enhances visibility especially during foggy conditions.

Pros:

1. Loaded with some very impressive aspects.

2. Engine performance, pickup and acceleration is outstanding.

Cons:

1. Fuel efficiency can be made better.

2. Initial cost of ownership, maintenance and spare parts is quite high.