New Freelander: more power, choice

Land Rover has added updated diesel options to a widened Freelander lineup for the MY11 rollout. The 2011 range goes from five to seven models.

The new 2.2-litre diesel is offered with output of either 110kW or 140kW, but both now wring 420Nm of torque; up 20Nm from the outgoing versions.

The 110kW TD4 model comes standard with a six-speed manual featuring start/stop function. The 140kW SD4 version is offered with six-speed automatic transmission.

Land Rover's Intelligent Power Management System is now offered for diesel Freelanders, recovering kinetic energy to charge the battery for further savings in fuel consumption.

The 2.2-litre rated at 110kW uses 6.6L/100km if matched to the manual. The auto-equipped 110kW and 140kW versions use 7.0L/100km, meaning all diesel Freelander models are exempt from the luxury car tax.

Overall, Land Rover claims a 13 per cent reduction in fuel consumption compared to the outgoing diesel.

Freelander has also had a slight facelift via restyled front bumper and grille. Customers now have a wider choice of exterior colours and alloy wheel designs as well. Freelander's compact SUV cabin space has also been updated with new trim choices, including two cloth styles and leather/alcantara combination, and new dash fascias.

The six-cylinder Freelander remains, however the in-line engine has been revised to meet EU5 emissions rating.

Land Rover has also released a new 4.4-litre V8 diesel engine for the MY11 Range Rover Vogue. Pricing starts at just over $160K.

Visit the Carsales Network again for our drive impressions of the new Land Rover Freelander and Range Rover Vogue.

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