LAND Rover's baby of the bunch - the Freelander 2 - has suddenly come of age and matured into a brilliant all-rounder without losing any of its charm.

There have been a few new tweaks to the design such as improved headlights and taillights, a new bumper and grille, a choice of alloys and new colour schemes to select from too.

However, the fact that the vehicle now boasts lower carbon emissions and better fuel economy is the real icing on the cake.

In my opinion, the Freelander has always been the pick of the Land Rovers when it comes to looks and that's still just as apparent with its smooth lines and attractive curves.

It may look a little different from its predecessor, but thankfully it still has that same appeal.

And the interior is still just as charming in its almost simplistic manner with all dials, levers, button and switches perfectly positioned for ease of use.

The leather, heated seats can be electrically adjusted every which way to find the perfect driving position and comfort levels are extremely good.

In fact, I travelled 250 miles in one stint behind the wheel and arrived as refreshed as when I set off and that‘s credit to the Freelander‘s excellent handling and drivability.

The 2.2-litre diesel-driven engine produced ample power, and manoeuvrability was deceptively agile for a vehicle of its size.

The driver benefits from excellent all-round visibility and there are rear parking sensors to assist when squeezing into a tight space.

Out on the faster motorways the Freelander proved very accomplished and the acceleration through the automatic transmission was both smooth and responsive. Road-holding was very good and the cabin noise relatively low even at higher speeds.

The cabin is bright and airy thanks to the large split sunroof which allows light to flood in and there is ample room for four adults to travel in comfort - a fifth for shorter distances.

Storage is no problem either with a very generously-sized boot that can be expanded thanks to split-folding rear seats.

And while the creature comforts are plentiful, it's worth remembering that the Freelander is just at home on the side of a mountain as it is on the Tarmac. Driving modes can be easily changed thanks to a rotating dial and then you are ready for any challenge Mother Nature throws in your path.

The Freelander boasts a comprehensive list of safety features, and although it's not the cheapest 4x4 out there, it's certainly one of the most accomplished.

FAST FACTS

Land Rover Freelander 2 SD4 HSE

Price: £36,245

Mechanical: 190ps, 2,179cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via automatic gearbox

Max speed: 118mph

0-60mph: 8.7 seconds

Combined mpg: 40.4

Insurance group: 26

CO2 emissions: 185g/km

BIK rating: 22%

Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited miles