2003 Land Rover Freelander

Land Rover invented the luxury SUV when it started importing the Range Rover to the U.S. in the 1980s. Before that, rugged and capable Land Rovers were going where no vehicles had gone before, from the desert to the Arctic. Despite off-road prowess, the brand gained notoriety for building SUVs that broke down frequently and expensively. Even today, the brand retains its reputation, as Consumer Reports’ reliability data confirms. Used Land Rovers are risky purchases. Still, the Land Rover Discovery, Range Rover, and Range Rover Sport offer comfortable interiors, powerful engines, and a presence that makes them popular choices for Hollywood stars and British aristocrats alike. The Defender has matured into a luxe off-roader, losing some charm but gaining creature comforts. The brand is now part of Jaguar Land Rover, which is owned by Tata, a conglomerate based in India.

New in the U.S. in 2002, the car-derived Freelander had fully independent suspension and no low-range gearing. Ride and handling weren't bad, but road noise was pronounced and its thirsty, underachieving 2.5-liter V6 and rough-shifting five-speed automatic failed to impress. The seats are comfortable but controls are awkward. Besides all-wheel drive it had four-wheel traction control and a hill-descent system that controls vehicle speed on steep slopes. It proved capable of tackling on- and off-road duties with equal aplomb. A convertible was added for 2003. 2005 was the Freelander's last year. Its LR2 replacement, introduced for 2008, uses a Volvo 3.2-liter, inline six-cylinder and six-speed automatic transmission.