Freelanded

Almost everyone's talking about the new Freelander 2.

Even if it is in American hands, Land Rover is a legendary British marque, isn't it? So when Land Rover introduces a new wiper blade in any of their machines, the British motoring press gush, trip all over themselves and generally have a field day.

Now imagine when they launch an ALL-NEW vehicle! Oh dear. If you read these mags, you know that they have been scooping the new Freelander 2 since the landing at Normandy. Finally, the Freelander 2 will be officially seen at the London Motor Show (we think the Brits created the show just for it).

Okay, so what is the Freelander 2 all about? We'll admit, it looks smart, especially because it follows the new Land/Range Rover family look. Yes, it is longer, wider and taller than the, er, Freelander 1. Two engines will be on offer: one is a 160 bhp/40 kgm 2200cc inline-four turbodiesel, and the other is a 230 bhp 3200cc straight-six petrol engine.

The inline-six unit, borrowed from their Swedish step-sister, Volvo, replaces the earlier V6. Land Rover claims a 0 to 96 kph timing of 10.9 seconds for the turbodiesel, and 8.5 seconds for the petrol, while top speeds are 180 kph and 200 kph respectively.

Being a Landie, it comes with serious off-road cred. Yes, there is the Terrain Response system which makes life easy for the off-road enthusiast "" it has pre-set modes for grass, gravel, snow, Iraq, mud, sand, etc.

Plus, there is Hill Descent Control, DSC stability control, Roll Stability Control and Bladder Control (just checking if you were paying attention). Whatever it is, it seems to be a pretty good SUV that stands apart from the crowd, British or not.