Land Rover's entry-level sport-utility vehicle, the Freelander, hasn't exactly been a fan favorite. While I am using the very unscientific method of recalling how many I typically see in a given week, I don't think many folks think of the Freelander when looking for an entry-level luxury SUV — in the States.
When I recently had the chance to drive one, I have to say I was pretty impressed. It had a nice, car-like drive, it can handle tough off-roading, most of the interior accoutrements have been updated, but overall, the exterior and interior design just felt about 10 years old.
It simply lacks that lust factor that's all-too-important in today's successful products.
Though that all could change with the next-gen Freelander, due to appear in early 2015. Auto Express is reporting it has an exclusive image of the all-new Freelander, but to me, it appears to me to be an exhausted rendering.
Word on the street suggests that the Freelander will differ from the Evoque in that it will have a more rugged interior with tougher plastics and "more durable" fabrics.
So, now it seems clear: if you want a Land Rover who's primary purpose is on-road, check out the Evoque, if you want more of an off-road vehicle, you should look at the Freelander.
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