| Author | Message | ||
     Jon K (Jonk) New Member Username: Jonk Post Number: 1 Registered: 01-2004 |
My step dad is interested in buying a new car very soon. Although I am sure he could afford one, he has hang-ups about spending the money for a Disco. We have a '00 Disco in the family (moms) and my BMW 525i so we're accustomed to the niches and repairs that go along with owning a european car. What I am asking: 1) Is there any MAJOR changes between the 2003 and 2004 models of the Freelander? We're considering a pretty "base" model I imagine. Maybe hte HK system. 2) I don't think it will be off-roaded heavilty, but if so, what're severe faulting spots? I know the H2 suffers from weak control arms etc. 3) Do you guys find that Freelander is a comfortable everyday driver? I drive a 525i but have driven my moms Disco and although it appears nice to me, I am taller and the kneeboard seems low/close. and.. 4) Finally, are there any options you would REALLY suggest. Aside from being "nice" is there anything that almost makes or breaks the car? I personally recommended fog lights and heated seats but I am not sure where the lights are located or if they are prone to getting broken, etc. Please given any general input. Thanks - Jon | ||
| D W (Rover_guy) New Member Username: Rover_guy Post Number: 2 Registered: 01-2004 |
There aren't any major mechanical differences between the two. The 04's have new headlights (like the RR and Disco) which look sharp, however I'm not crazy about the painted bumpers. I think they softened the look too much and it's too feminine and generic looking now. The interior is "improved" but again, its down to opinion. I don't really think it's better, just different. Mechanically they're pretty much the same. I would recommend getting an 03 if you're interested in content, you can find some amazing deals on them now. The 04's while are priced lower than the 03's (an SE now costs what an S cost last year), don't be fooled, the pricing is actually the same if you equip it the same. I too wanted heated seats but they're not available on the SE3 model. But the technical fabric doesn't get very cold so it's no biggy. The upgraded stereo is worth it. I haven't off-roaded mine yet, but I've seen quite a few on the trails and they're surprisingly capable. But clearance is definitely an issue. I've enjoyed mine very much and haven't had any problems. That's about all I can tell you, I think you guys need to go test drive some to get your mind made up. Also check out www.freelanderliving.com and www.freelanderowners.com, the forums will be able to tell you a lot about issues etc. Bear in mind that people only post to complain when something breaks, so don't be put off if you see a lot of people whining about issues. I've never seen anyone write to ANY rover board just to say, "all is well w/ my rover." Good luck! | ||
| Alyssa Brown (Alyssa) Senior Member Username: Alyssa Post Number: 395 Registered: 01-2003 |
Issued by: Land Rover North America, One Premier Place, Irvine, CA 92618 2004 MY LINE-UP SE - The repositioned Freelander SE features an Alcantara/Leather interior, 16" wheels, roof rails and privacy glass at a starting MSRP of just $25,995, including freight. Its new content and pricing place it between last year's S and SE models – making it a great value story for 2004. HSE - We have also re-aligned the pricing and features of the HSE to allow a low starting MSRP of $28,995. The HSE will offer a full leather interior, sunroof, 17" wheels and an in-dash single CD player. SE3 - The SE3 will remain at $26,995, but will now feature a standard in-dash 6-disc CD changer and integrated fog lamps. Finally, to simplify the 2004 line-up, the Freelander S derivative will no longer be available. We think you will agree the new 2004 Freelander is now positioned to meet the competition head-on, with significant improvements building on Land Rover's heritage. WHAT'S NEW The 2004MY Freelander features a number of key enhancements: Exterior – Up Front • All-new front end • Re-styled front bumper incorporating a new mesh grille and body colored surround • Integrated fog lamps (optional on SE/HSE, standard on SE3) • "Range Rover inspired" twin pocket head lamps providing improved illumination, spread and range (70% brighter intensity) • Raised bonnet badging, giving the vehicle a distinctive look and feel Exterior – At the Rear • Re-designed rear bumper • Tail lamps have been repositioned making them more visible from behind • New rear bib - molded in silver metallic to match the front bib • New rear door finisher and block-lettered "Freelander" nomenclature providing continuity with the bonnet lettering (similar to Range Rover/Discovery) Exterior – Wheels, Colors & KIT • SE receives new 16" 5-spoke "Freedom" style wheels (set of 4) • SE3 receives new 17" 6-spoke "Freedom" style wheels (set of 5) • New 9-spoke 18" alloy "Sport" wheel available on all models (on 235/50R18 Continentals)(set of 5) • Steel spare wheel & emergency tire w/plastic wheel cover is now standard on 5-door models • 3 new SE/HSE exterior colors – Giverny Green, Vienna Green and Maya Gold (Maya Gold replaces White Gold) • 1 new SE3 color – Chawton White (replacing Borrego Yellow and Tangiers Orange as these colors are on hold) • SE3 accessory soft top has been improved for easier operation (optional KIT) • The accessory steel wraparound brush bar has been re-designed to be more form-fitting (optional KIT) Interior • Premium seats are now standard on all models providing luxury & comfort on and off-road • "Range Rover inspired" chronographic instrument cluster • Updated shifter bezel/center console • Color-keyed glove box lid and steering wheel (matching the interior color) • New fascia including repositioned fog lamp/hazard/rear wiper/cruise control switches, offering improved ergonomics • Easy to reach door-mounted window and door lock controls (SE/HSE only) • New upgraded door trim • 6-disc CD changer is now "in-dash" instead of under passenger seat (optional on SE/HSE, standard on SE3) • Larger cup holders • 2 new seating surfaces – perforated leather on HSE and "Alcantara" on SE. Alcantara seating features a unique blend of suede-type fabric with leather accents • 1 new interior color on SE/HSE – Tundra Green (only available with Vienna Green exterior) Drivability Enhancements • Improved automatic shift quality for smoother shifting and better performance • Improved heating, ventilation and air conditioning system allowing quicker cooling time and quieter operation • Improved wheel balancing process resulting in significant vibration reduction • Reduced SE3 removable twin sunroof panel wind noise | ||
| Bill Rogers (Dc_plasterer) Member Username: Dc_plasterer Post Number: 46 Registered: 11-2003 |
Jon, I pretty much agree with both responses above, there is some improvements, notably the headlights, but its a matter of personal choice if they are worth the difference you'll pay. But you better act soon if you want to snatch up a deal on an 03. You asked about comfort as a daily driver. I've put 10,000 miles on mine since early September. Not only do I use it as a daily driver, but I travel across the country and up and down the east coast. I have a bad back and am very picky about the seat and how it effects my back. The Freelander is a great commuter car, very comfortable, easy to manuver in tight spots and sporty enough not ot be boring on those long hauls I run. Oh yea, commuting in a snow storm now has become an adventure, not a pain - and it will run a mountain trial very nicely! | ||
| Jon K (Jonk) New Member Username: Jonk Post Number: 2 Registered: 01-2004 |
Good to hear that you are all enjoying the cars. One thing i hated in the Disco vs. my 525i was that the head rests don't pivot!! Argh! Anyway, are the headlamps HID? Or standard halogen? Is there an upgrade for HID or not. Other than those few questions I think we'll be going to Willow Grove Land Rover sometime in the upcoming weeks. | ||
| Alyssa Brown (Alyssa) Senior Member Username: Alyssa Post Number: 399 Registered: 01-2003 |
The headrests don't pivot. In any 2003 or 04 model year land rover. Our headrests in our '04 530i don't pivot either. The headlamps are halogen. There is no factory upgrade available. However, as you can see above, the 04 lights are 70% brighter. Hey! Come to me! I'm at Land Rover Main Line in Wayne. | ||
| Tom Bittler (Timer) New Member Username: Timer Post Number: 1 Registered: 12-2003 |
My 03 SE3 has heated seats installed by the dealer. I am not sure why they said the fabric of the would prevent the install. And yes I love that option | ||
| Alyssa Brown (Alyssa) Senior Member Username: Alyssa Post Number: 402 Registered: 01-2003 |
The heated seats on an SE3 are only available from the factory with the leather interior. | ||
| Bill Rogers (Dc_plasterer) Member Username: Dc_plasterer Post Number: 47 Registered: 11-2003 |
Alysea, I may be coming up to see you when I'm ready for my 04 Disco this summer. It's a real pleasure to see a Sales Guide so knowledgable and obviously in love with the product. My local guys didn't even know what MAR's was, let along attend. And they are in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic! BILL | ||
| Jon K (Jonk) New Member Username: Jonk Post Number: 3 Registered: 01-2004 |
Alyssa, Thanks for that clarification. I think my step dad is looking to 2003 "left overs" although I would be pressing him for 2004 because that's how I am. Can you tell me what you guys have left over in 2003? I can email you also. We have been going to Willow Grove and Princeton (sigh). | ||
| Ben (Btais) New Member Username: Btais Post Number: 11 Registered: 11-2003 |
we have a red service loaner SE if you haven't found anything yet. It can easily be shipped. My email is btais@sport.rr.com if anyone's interested. |
