I have recently acquired a 2008 Freelander 2 petrol Si6 SE.. When you go for the first run of the day it takes a while for the AC to kick in.. My guess would be about 5 minutes, consistently.

I haven't timed it exactly, but based on an every-other-day run to the shops it starts getting cold about the same point of the journey every time.

Once it's running it works well so I don't believe there is any problem with temperature sensors or the gas system.

If you leave it parked for a few hours and jump back in, the AC starts to cool straight away.. But leave it overnight and the next day the first time you drive there will be a delay again before things start to cool down.

I don't know what the length of time is you need to leave it.. But "overnight" seems to do the trick.. Lazy, consistent - approx. 5 minutes, before the compressor kicks in and things cool off.

Any idea's or pointers where to look?

I originally thought this might be something by design, but after doing enough research it would appear that's not the case, and it's simply not engaging the electric clutch on the compressor for a delay period, for some(?) reason.

Would really appreciate any input..