I made the fatal mistake of window shopping at the local dealers yesterday. I have been toying with the idea of changing mine for a few weeks-nothing wrong with it I just want a little more comfort. I've considered changing to an estate but after a trip to Available Car and sitting in everything Germany has to offer I've come to the conclusion I have the perfect car for me already. My Freelander is a poverty spec S manual. The one I looked at was an Auto HSE. Is it just me or does the extra leather and sunroof completely transform the normal bland (dare I say cheap) looking interior? Has anybody switched from the manual to auto and offer feedback on the differences in driving experience?

I'm on my first FL2, it's an SD4 HSE and I love it. I have never driven in S spec, but I agree with you and it does look a bit cheap. The HSE is lovely, the seats are really comfortable and supportive, and you get all of the toys. The sunroof floods light in, and having it open is slightly quieter on the motorway than having the windows open. If you want the HSE, go for it.

Is the one you are looking at a MY13 or older?

Short answer is yes.

I have an XS auto, a mate has an S manual, my missus has the HSE auto. Hers is much nicer inside - the toys, the finish and the sunroof are all well worth it if the budget stretches. I know the engine, mechanicals etc are the same but the driver experience is somehow better, the surfaces and the ambiance/feel of the car is definitely improved at the top of the trim level.

Personally, I'm not overly impressed with the MY2013 manual, feels very tight and it takes some control to get a smooth change in the first few gears. It may improve over time......

I'd have an auto at the drop of a hat but it means financial outlay!! Specification is personal choice, my black edition is an 'S' with some 'GS' toys but I'd love sat nav, heated leather etc. I think you'll kick yourself for not doing it if the price is right and the deal works for you  2013 FL2 - Black Edition Auto
2013 FL2 - Black Edition Manual GONE!
Founder of the 'Microscopic LR Spoiler Badge Club'
Destroyer of chrome rears.....

Go for it!!!
I upgraded 18 months ago and I really appreciate the higher specs. The seats are extremely comfortable I am 6 - 3 and 17stone. The extras are in my view very much worth the extra money.
And yes....the armrests are a must.
.

Just don't expect the satnav to get you anywhere quickly!  Past: FL2 TD4 HSE Auto
Evoque SD4 Dynamic Lux Auto
Present: Audi A3 S Line.

Many thanks for the feedback. You have convinced me (I didn't take much persuading!!). I can't stretch to the 12 month old one I was looking at so phoned my local dealer to try and find me one in my price range. Fingers crossed I won't have to wait too long.

Keep us updated!

Yeah, agree with others here.

I have an XS but has full leather and the sunroof, and I think they really give it a great feel inside. FL2 2011 SD4 XS in Galway Green

Just upgraded my 2007 'S' Manual for a 2010 'XS' Auto with Nav and well pleased.

Had no issues with my S but did miss some of the extras the rest of the range had.

The driving experience is smoother and with the extra few toys feels and looks a lot better.

I'd recommend it............

This is my first freely just like Chris,
I did a lot of shopping around for a good 6 weeks and checked out all models... did go for a MY10 GS facelift model at first, but ended up getting the HSE MY08 for around the same money - okay its 2 years older but I think it was worth it for the spec  BETTER looking half of the famous Twinlanders
The wanna be other half - http://www.freel2.com/forum/member-carriec.html

I didnt want leather,

or a sunroof (Landrover have "form" for leaking sunroofs)
or a sat nag that is out of date as soon as you buy it,

I bought her a GS

I wanted all of those, so I went for an HSE.

I could have got a cheaper newer car but went for the HSE but older. Its a good car and I love the sunroof and yes... it does have a few issues ( see my sig ) but when they are sorted its a good motor.

Having had all manor of cars new and old I do know been the first owner does not stop it going wrong and potentially in a big way ( as did for me ).

T Terran



'The' Car For The Modern Day UK Roads ( ie all the pot holes )

'A Freelander that leaks oil is just marking its territory' - Wise words

Now a member of the FL2 'Silly Bill' Club