The Land Rover Freelander is a lightweight sport utility automobile (SUV) produced by the British maker Land Rover, in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions. The current generation is sold as the LR2 in North America and as the Freelander 2 in Europe. It uses a monocoque (unibody) framework, in common with almost all other 'soft roaders' in its class, but unlike traditional SUVs that were built with body-on-frame designs.Market research by the Rover Group in the late 1980s advised that Land Rover could enter the compact SUV market segment. In the early 1990s, the Rover Group had a restricted product development budget and looked for a companion to develop the project, which was codenamed CB40 (after Canley Building 40, where the concept was initially developed). Rover's then-partner Honda chose and declined to develop its own CR-V model that was launched in 1997.Rover decided to go it alone with the CB40, using present parts and components, as it had done with the MGF roadster. When BMW took over Rover Group in 1994, the CB40 project received the capital it needed to proceed.The Freelander had been launched in late 1997. It became Europe's best-selling four-wheel drive model until 2002. The last Freelanders in North America were sold as 2005 models.

There were a variety of models, based around five-door estate and three-door softback (semi-convertible), hardback, and commercial (van-like) variations. In 2004, Land Rover introduced an improved and upgraded form of the Mark I; changes included a new inside and major outside revisions, including a new face and rear.The three-door model had been available in E, S, SE, Sport and Sport Premium trim and the five-door model in available in Sport, S, SE, HSE, Sport and E Premium trim.

Engine choices include:

1.8 litre I4 Rover K-Series petrol (1997Ã2006), badged as '1.8i' (Not sold in North America)

2.0 litre I4 Rover L-series diesel (1997Ã2000), badged as 'Di' or 'XDi'

2.0 litre I4 BMW M47 diesel (2001Ã2006), badged as 'TD4'

2.5 litre V6 Rover KV6 Engine petrol (2001Ã2006), badged as 'V6'

Manual gearboxes dominated the early designs, but automatic Tiptronic-style gearboxes became increasingly popular and were standard on the V6.Hill Descent Control (HDC) allows smooth and managed hill descent in rough terrain without the motorist needing to touch the brake pedal. When on, the vehicle will descend using the ABS brake system to control each wheel's speed. If the vehicle accelerates without motorist input, the system will automatically apply the brakes to slow down to the desired vehicle speed. Cruise control buttons can adjust the speed to a comfortable level. Applying force to the accelerator or brake pedal will override the HDC system whenever the driver requires. The other name for this might be Hill Mode Descent Control.With Hill Descent Control drivers can be confident that even the ride down hills with slippery or rough terrain will be smooth and controlled, and that they will have the ability to keep control as long as sufficient traction exists. Four-wheel-drive (4WD) and All Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicles, these types of as Ford Territory, may have a Hill Descent Control system installed, using the ABS stopping to control the car's movement downhill, initially developed by Bosch for Land Rover. The system can be controlled, usually by the Cruise Control buttons near or on the steering wheel.Land Rover originally developed HDC for use on the Freelander model which lacks the low range gears usually provided on 4x4 vehicles. At the time it was derided by enthusiasts, and many claimed its set speed was too high for a controlled descent in hard conditions. Later implementations such as the Range Rover combine HDC with Traction Control and low-range gears, and also have actually reduced the set speed to slower than walking pace for extra control.Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is an automobile safety system that allows the wheels on an engine vehicle to maintain tractive contact with the road surface according to driver inputs while braking, preventing the wheels from locking up (ceasing rotation) and avoiding uncontrolled skidding. It is an automatic system that uses the principles of threshold braking and cadence braking which were practiced by skillful drivers with previous generation braking systems. It does this at a much faster rate and with much better control than a motorist could manage.ABS generally offers improved vehicle control and decreases stopping distances on dry and slippery surfaces for many drivers; however, on loose areas like gravel or snow-covered ABS, pavement can significantly increase braking distance, although still improving car control.Since initial widespread use in production cars, anti-lock braking systems have evolved considerably. Recent versions not only prevent wheel lock under braking, but additionally electronically control the front-to-rear braking system bias. This function, according to its particular capabilities and implementation, is known as electronic brakeforce distribution (traction, EBD) control system, emergency brake assist, or electronic security control (ESC).

Land Rover Freelander 1997-2006 factory workshop and repair manual 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Download

The history of Land Rover dates back to the 1940s, when the Rover Company, a British car manufacturer, began developing a new type of vehicle that could be used on farms and in other rugged terrain. In 1948, the company launched the Land Rover, a boxy, four-wheel drive vehicle that quickly gained a reputation for its durability and off-road capabilities.

The original Land Rover was based on a Jeep design and featured a lightweight aluminum body mounted on a steel frame. It was powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and had a top speed of around 50 mph. Despite its simplicity, the Land Rover quickly gained popularity among farmers, explorers, and other off-road enthusiasts.

In the 1950s, Land Rover introduced several updates and new models to the lineup. The Series II was launched in 1958, featuring a larger 2.25-liter engine and improved suspension. The Series IIA, launched in 1961, was an even more refined version and was available in a range of body styles, including a pickup truck, a station wagon, and a soft-top version.

In 1970, Land Rover launched the Range Rover, a luxury off-road vehicle that was intended to appeal to a more affluent consumer. The Range Rover featured a V8 engine, power-assisted brakes and steering, and a more comfortable interior. It was an instant success and helped to establish Land Rover as a major player in the luxury SUV market.

In the 1980s, Land Rover continued to expand its lineup with the launch of the Discovery, a midsize SUV that was designed to be more affordable and practical than the Range Rover. The Discovery was a hit with buyers and helped to establish Land Rover as a major player in the SUV market.

In the 1990s, Land Rover was acquired by BMW, which invested heavily in the brand and introduced a number of new models, including the Freelander, a compact SUV, and the Defender, a rugged, off-road vehicle. BMW's ownership of Land Rover was short-lived and in 2000, Ford Motor Company acquired the brand. Under Ford's ownership, Land Rover continued to develop and introduce new models, such as the LR3 and LR4.

In 2008, Tata Motors, an Indian multinational automotive manufacturing company, acquired Land Rover from Ford. Since then, the company has invested heavily in the brand and introduced several new models, such as the Evoque and the Velar, which helped to further strengthen Land Rover's position in the luxury SUV market.

Today, Land Rover continues to be a popular brand, known for its luxury and off-road capabilities. The company produces a range of popular models, including the Range Rover, Discovery, and Defender. Land Rover has a strong reputation for producing high-quality vehicles that are built to last and are capable of tackling even the toughest off-road conditions.

In summary, Land Rover has a rich history, starting as a rugged boxy vehicle designed to be used on farms and in other rugged terrain, evolving over time to include a range of luxury models such as the Range Rover, Discovery, and Defender. Land Rover has changed hands several times, being owned by Rover company, BMW, Ford and Tata Motors. The company has a strong reputation for producing high-quality vehicles that are built to last and are capable of tackling even the toughest off-road conditions.