LAND ROVER is launching a new more sporty version of its top-selling Freelander 2 range - and for extra exclusivity only 500 cars will be available.

The company has just unveiled the new model, named the Freelander 2 SD4 Sport Limited Edition, at the Bologna Motor Show and says it will cost from £33,945 when sales begin early next year.

Both the car's exterior and interior have been refreshed, with a striking black finish to the grille and the side vents, a new body styling pack which offers cleaner profiling to the front corners, and a choice of three exterior colours - Fuji White, Santorini Black or the all-new Firenze Red.

There's also a rear spoiler together with 19-inch ‘Shadow Chrome' alloy wheels, body coloured door handles and mirror caps and privacy glass. Front and rear parking sensors will also be standard.

Two interior design themes comprise Ebony Windsor leather with contrast Pimento stitch, or Ebony Napoli leather with a contrast Windsor leather highlight stripe on the seats. And there's also a Piano Black fascia plus Ebony carpet mats.

The SD4 Sport, which is available only with auto transmission, is powered by the new 190PS diesel engine and can reach 60mph in 8.7 seconds with a top speed of 118mph. Emissions are 185g/km.

 "The Freelander 2 SD4 Sport Limited Edition offers customers the practicality, performance and efficiency of our best-selling compact SUV with more dramatic, sporty styling and the overall package represents good value for money," said Land Rover's UK chief Colin Green.

The Liverpool-built Freelander 2 is currently Land Rover's best-selling model, with more than 215,000 cars sold globally since its launch in 2006.