IRVINE, Calif. – Still the most affordable Land Rover model on the road, Freelander is getting a new look for 2004.

'Over the last half-dozen decades, Land Rover has likely conquered more territory on the planet than any other motor vehicle,' says Frank Aukofer of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Of the 2003 Freelander in particular, he notes an 'indefinable something that comes from the input of designers and engineers who have never done anything but dedicate themselves to climbing over that next rock or tree trunk, or fording that fast-moving stream.'

For 2004, that capability is captured in a new and fresh exterior, accomplished by redesigning the front bumper and grille and by adopting distinctive twin-pocket, clear lens headlamps similar to the Range Rover. These new lights provide 70 percent brighter illumination.

Both front and rear bumpers now are body colored, and the front fenders are thermoplastic to help remain undamaged by minor dings. At the rear, tail lamps have been repositioned higher in the bumper to improve visibility and reduce the likelihood of being obscured by road grime or dust from off-roading.

The three-door Freelander SE3 features a detachable hardtop roof, and the five-door model is available in two trim levels - SE and HSE. Standard equipment for 2004 includes roof rails, deep-tinted windows and a single-disc, in-dash CD player.

On the inside, the 2004 Freelander is comprehensively restyled to improve comfort and the feeling of luxury. A new fascia, instruments, switchgear, door trim panels and front seats offer better body and under-thigh comfort.

'Since its original launch in 1997, the Freelander has been the best selling SUV in most of the countries in which it's been sold,' says Richard Beattie, executive vice president of marketing and sales for Jaguar Land Rover North America. 'The latest changes are designed to improve the premium nature of the Freelander, and make it an even more desirable and successful vehicle.'

Powered by a 174-horsepower, 2.5-liter, light-alloy V-6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, Freelander achieves 17 miles per gallon in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, according to EPA-estimated ratings.

Pricing for the 2004 Freelander begins at $25,995 for the SE model and $28,995 for the HSE. The SE3 will carryover its 2003 pricing and remain at $26,995, with destination and delivery charges included.

All Land Rovers are backed by a four-year/50,000-mile new-vehicle limited warranty, a six-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion perforation limited warranty and 24-hour road service.

by Ford Communications Network