LAND Rover owners are rarely unhappy with their cars these days - especially since the reliability has been improved.

I thought it was time to try the first ever two wheel drive vehicle from the company's stable - the Freelander eD4.

It certainly has the same premium feel as the Discovery and Range Rover but even though this means higher prices than the competition, the ambiance is top notch.

Refinement on the move is excellent - right up there with the Discovery in fact - and the ride is superb over any and all surfaces.

So even though it's two wheel drive, the driver and passengers get the same high driving position and wide views all around.

And the majority of owners would rather have the eD4's excellent 45mpg economy and low emissions than the four wheel drive system.

Acceleration from the 150bhp 2.2 diesel is adequate for most people and it easily keeps up with motorway speeds. There even a stop/start system to help keep economy up.

It is a hugely practical shape of course, with an airy cabin and long journey space for four to travel in complete comfort.

Equipment in the GS I drove is excellent, with alloys and an alarm, climate, cruise, headlamp washers, heated mirrors, parking sensors and traction control.