Land Rover has announced its first sub-160g/km CO2 car, a Freelander 2 eD4, which is also the carmaker’s first two-wheel drive vehicle.
Available from January 2011, the 2.2-litre 148hp diesel car, which is not yet priced, has 158g/km and official figures of 47.2mpg.
It is only available with a six-speed manual transmission with stop/start technology as standard.
“The new Freelander 2 eD4 moves Land Rover into the hugely popular and fiercely contested two wheel-drive SUV market,” said Land Rover managing director Phil Popham. “The European market for two-wheel drive SUVs represents 23% of the segment and we intend to compete strongly here.
“A 2WD option is just one way in which we are developing our vehicles’ efficiency while adding to the Land Rover range and expanding our appeal to a broader group of customers.”
Meanwhile, the four-wheel drive new model range, the Freelander 2 TD4 and SD4, on sale in September, has a new 2.2-litre diesel engine with either 148hp or 188hp, offering 165g/km and 185g/km CO2 respectively.
Revised exterior includes a new front bumper, three new colour schemes and new alloy wheel options. Inside, there are new instrument dials and a Premium Pack option which includes leather upholstery, an 8/6 way electric seat, plus premium carpet mats and covered centre stowage.
Prices range from £21,695 to £35,510.
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