I've owned 3 Freelander 2's over a period of 4 years and clocked up around 130-140,000 miles between them. I still work with the chap that bought my original from me; I did the first 90,000 miles and he's now taken it to 133,000 miles and fully intends to take it to 200,000 and beyond.
I drove each of them gently but, in general use, the manuals returned around 34-35mpg, the auto between 29 and 32mpg. For the best possible mpg, try and avoid living somewhere with hills in it...
My second TD4 manual had an irregular "cough" under acceleration (not a real problem, but LR admitted that they can't cure it) and the rear diffs last for around 100,000 and then die to the tune of £700 + labour. The clutch in the original manual is still there, at 133,000 miles, but it has always been weak if worked hard and will burn easily. Stick to an auto if you intend to tow.
The SD4 auto is usefully more powerful than the TD4, but the TD4 is certainly quick enough.
17" wheels suit the car best if you're planning on off roading although, if you're not used to a Land Rover, you might find the steering a little vague with them on the motorway, while 18's are a good compromise for road use. 19's look great, but are a bit silly, while some fit 22's(!!!). Not me and don't bother.
Off road capability is surprisingly good, but the lack of low range is a pain in the bottom, especially without the benefit of an auto. It needs a sump and fuel tank bash plate for any moderately serious work - see Mantec for those.
Apart from those issues, they are great and I loved every one of them
Find a well cared got one with a good history and I can thoroughly recommend it!
PS: I only sold the last one to buy a D4 - the car I lusted after for years
It made no financial sense at all!
