LAND Rover cannot put a wheel wrong at the moment.

Every model it makes is eagerly snapped up and a lot of that is down to the Freelander series which has really popularised the brand and made it more accessible to owners.

The current range includes some two-wheel-drive versions but the all-weather abilities of the four-wheel-drive are what you can truly depend on without having to pay the earth.

Built in Halewood on Merseyside alongside the status-setting Range Rover Evoque, the Freelander2 is more conservative on the outside, labour inside and with a dose of liberal attitude it has continued its strong appeal as a workhorse for all but the most arduous constituencies it is likely to find itself in.

This range-topping model was brimming with the latest features including keyless starting, rear-view camera including hitch assist, voice activated command system for secondary features and an intelligent electric parking brake with hill-assist.

Terrain-response offers easily selected traction systems including a feet-off hill-descent function for utter control in adverse conditions.

That's a lot of modern technology, but its well presented and thought out so there are really few things to worry about, and it all works so well.

Under the bonnet sits a lower emission 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine with bags of pulling power in a responsive unit which is not very noisy even when pressed on, and the six-speed automatic has well chosen ratios and smoothly moves through them.

It steers easily and faithfully, slows and stops with confidence and handles without drama but a little bit of body roll on tighter turns.

You can hear the suspension working away and sometimes it bangs into potholes but generally it is composed and comfortable.

Access is good throughout, the boot takes from 755 to 1,670 litres depending on whether the back seat is used and oddments space is good as well for every user.

The controls are a little spread about but clearly marked and the big instruments are welcome at night, the climate control works well and is backed up by full electric windows and standard powered sunroof in the HSE Lux.

All this equipment, leather-covered multi-adjustable seats and nice detailing inside give the Freelander2 HSE Lux a quality feel and look belaying its price.

The Freelander2 is not the latest kid on the block but it's possibly the best at the price.