Hopefully New FL2 Owner

[Pete58]

Hi everyone new to this forum.
Looking at buying 2013/2014 Freelander TD4 SE. Although i haven't test driven as yet, I have read all the reviews which leads me to believe that the FL2 has no major problems. I am planning to drive in mid August to Darwin then swing across to Broome then Pilbaras and head my way back to Melbourne so I am hoping this is the right car to do it in (will not be doing much off road as i will be doing trip on my own). Drove to Alice Springs then Ayres Rock last May in my sons hilux. Guess I just need some confirmation from currentFL2 owners that I am making the right decision in buying this car. Have also looked at the Subaru Outback TD (2013) but off my list now due to negative reviews regarding their DPF.

[inside]

I bought one new in late 2007, TD4 SE. All I can say is great car, maybe didn't have the toys of the competition but in our 7 years of ownership our small family loved it, we often talk about how great it was and it would be good to have again. Big enough without been too big, nice diesel, nice auto box and actually can do some off road.

There were a few issues but they were minor and sorted early in warranty, just look for all usual secondhand car tips like service history, accident damage etc.

Read the online reviews, most owners love them and for good reason. Shame they don't still sell them really. They've gone all swoopy and modern looking now, can't beat the boxy look for practicality and great LR presence on road.

Not sure about the roads you'll be on and if they are the typical outback road then you're best to look at some good tyres, not sure what's available in the 18" rim size.

[Michael78]

I have a 2013 TD4 with a manual and love it. I had some issues with the audio system and blue tooth compatibility on my old phone but it works just fine with the Android replacement.

I've done some long highway driving Sydney to Brisbane in a day it was a pleasure to drive and sat around 5.8 - 6l/100km. I put bridgestone d697 AT's that make highway driving a little louder then the original goodyear HT's.

So far it's been fine off road except for when i misjudged the ruts and had her resting on the sump and fuel tank guards and the wheels off the ground but that stops just about everything :) Many people I have driven off-road with have been impressed with how capable the FL2 is.

Have a great trip it sounds like a lot of fun

[Pete58]

Thanks for the replies. Makes me feel more confident in buying now.
Can't wait for the trip to commence. Have been researching places to visit and where to set up camp on a daily basis. Got to get it right.

[bnicho]

After advice on here, I bought an FL2 TD4 manual six months ago. I'm very happy with it and it's been trouble free. I've owned a lot of cars and this is the best long distance tourer of the lot.