I find that comment, coming from you, astounding!
I am well aware that "one swallow, a spring doth not make". However my decision is not based purely on mine. I believe, as mentioned previously, that it is not the individual car, and yes you can get lucky, but the inherent design which is flawed. This has been exacerbated by poor build quality to make a bad vehicle.
These failings can, to a certain extent, be reduced, by constant vigilance, but care and a good maintenance schedule will not eliminate all potential catastrophes!
If you are prepared to pamper it like a prima Donna; check all fluids every time you go out in it, check the drive train monthly and are prepared to do some fairly major work on it yourself, or have deep pockets, then it is ok; but you must go into Freelander ownership with your eyes open.
You have seen the number of noobs come on here, tearing their hair out.
I, for one, want a reliable daily drive that I can jump into and drive, without having an apoplectic fit every time I hear a new squeak or noise.
I am also not talking about general wear and tear. Normal wear and tear does not include subframe mounts ripping out. The weakest point in the dive chain destroying the rest of said drive train. A sensitive and temperamental cooling system which measure coolant temperature
after it's been cooled! Those are all basic design faults.