2001 Land Rover Freelander V6

What is it?
2001 Land Rover Freelander V6

What's special about it?
Freelander is a mini sport ute from Land Rover that competes with the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, among others. This one comes with a class-exclusive five-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic control (the only other SUVs with this sort of advanced transmission are the BMW X5 Mercedes-Benz M-Class and the 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Limited). Drive modes for the transmission include Normal and Sport, plus the Steptronic feature that allows for quick manual shifting to provide increased driver control during off- road maneuvers. To improve traction in snow or slippery conditions the driver can elect to start off in any gear. Hill Descent Control limits vehicle speed while navigating steep inclines and Electronic Traction Control reduces wheel spin in all conditions. Power is supplied by a 2.5-liter all-aluminum V6 engine that uses a Variable Induction System to make 175 horsepower while providing strong torque at any speed. The torque-axis mounting system of the transverse engine is designed to reduce engine vibration and noise levels. An independent suspension system and Electronic Brake Distribution give the Freelander a confident and comfortable ride while a host of luxury options, including leather seat trim and cruise control, maintain Land Rover's luxury theme on the company's smallest sport ute./

Why should you care?
The Freelander has been around since 1997, but only in Europe and only with a four-cylinder engine. Land Rover confirmed that the new V6-equipped model is the one that will make it to America. The 175-horsepower V6 engine should make the Freelander an attractive combination of performance and utility that appeals to image-conscious buyers who appreciate the Land Rover nameplate but want a smaller, easier-to-drive SUV.