My first off road event and random observations

I just got back from my first dealer sponsored off road event. I've had my freelander for over a year and have been off road several times but this was the first chance to directly compare it to a Disco at a Land Rover event. I was very impressed. While I didn't have the ground clearance or low gears, I went everywhere the Discoverys went. In fact, all day long, not a single Freelander got stuck while several Discos did. We flew through mud with no problem while the bigger trucks got bogged down.

It is a very capable little car for everyday use and occasional off road use. Now if they could only make it more reliable. 24,000 miles. Third set of brakes, new sunroof motor, front defroster switch, rear armrest and rear seatbelt tensioner. Thank goodness for warranty - but it does scare me when the warranty expires.

My other problem is the piece of CRAP stereo system. I spent the extra bucks to get the Harmon Kardon "premium" stereo. It's embarrassing. The premium stereo in my Mustang cost less and sounds far better.

Lastly, I got rear ended the other day. I got out and the other guy's car was totalled... hood crushed, grill shattered, radiator spewing steam, front quarter panels bent. He had easily $4,000 in body and engine repairs. Total damage to my Freelander - $54.00 for a new tail light cover. The mother is built like a tank!

Nice one.

I had someone try to move into the lane that I was travelling in in my Discovery.

Not a good idea. His brand new 645i convertble BMW had a dent from door to rear and a broken mirror.

Mine needed a new indicator lens.

That will teach him to play chicken with a Land Rover.

Nice to here of your good experience off roading in a freelander. It's a shame more freelander owners don't go out and get there freelanders muddy, as you say, they are quite capable!

Hi All,

I have taken my freelander off road a few times now, I'm keen to get involved with some more serious stuff. Anyone know of any events, green lanes or gatherings any where near Croydon Surrey, say Godstone, Caterham, Warlingham areas?

The car is more than capable off road, I rented a Jeep Cherokee before setling on the Land Rover and that just didn't compare off road, not even close.

Pity Freelanders are expensive to maintain though, not that I would trade it for any other 4x4 at the moment. In fact i am already planning when I will trade this one in against a newer freelander.

My wife thinks i'm obsessed!!