Newbie. New TD4 or SD4 SE? Bout to buy, advice?

[Kowolski]

I need a 4wd for very occasional soft surface mud work. Most work is general road use. Costs an issue but at the same time I like a nice vehicle and like the 4WD ride height, feel. The Freelander 2 SE diesel seems like a nice fit.

1 - is it worth getting the SD4 vs TD4 engine? Is one more reliable etc?

2 - Are these cars reliable. I realize people come in here often seeking help with probs so it "seems" Freelanders have lots of probs, but am I right that I could expect to buy a new Freelander2, keep it for 5 years and have minimal if any costs other than servicing?

3 - On a new Freelander 2 TD4 or SD4, what are the most common things which go wrong?

4 - Any suggestion of the best dealer to buy one from? I'm in Buderim Qld but would be happy to buy one interstate and drive it back if it's worth it?

Any advice, suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks!

[mikehzz]

There are no real issues with the FL2. Some had a problem with a whining rear diff which is fixed no charge under warranty. It's a really good car and top in its class off road.
Personally, I prefer the auto diesel. There are advantages off road by having an auto on a car with no low range. The torque converter does compensate better than you can in a manual. In city driving, give me an auto any day. I drive mine a lot in manual mode on hills and curves to save brake wear and tear. An auto lasts longer than a clutch in my experience with other cars. Still, its a matter of personal preference.
Service wise, my local mechanic does mine for the same price as any other car. I downloaded the schedule for him so he knows what needs doing.
Mine is 3 years/108,000 kms and has never let me down but I bought the extended warranty just for peace of mind. Any brand car can cost an arm and a leg these days if something major does go wrong.

[Jono70]

Got my FL2 TD4 from Trivett Sydney two years ago. They have greater volume and willing to neg on price. Would get the SD4 with more power (why not?). No problems with them. You'll love it.

[OldGoat]

Got my SD4 from Punell in sydney - very good service and good price. I Test drove the SD4 and TD4 and needless to say, the SD4 is much nicer on the highway. If you can do it, go for it.