Freelander - Steering
Steering; Precision, Agility and Control
Complimenting the advantages bestowed by the suspension design, Freelander's power-assisted steering system gives car-like precision, agility and control. A new steering rack enhances these capabilities in the latest Freelander model.
The rack and pinion system ensures on-road steering precision, as it is the most direct available - giving optimum feedback and a fast predictable response. In the latest Freelander, a new steering rack delivers even more confident handling.
The ratio has been chosen to give a sharp response without nervousness, and the power assistance characteristic tuned to maximise feel whilst remaining light at parking speeds. the steering wheel has height adjustment, and has been carefully designed to give a robust feel with maximum comfort and control.
Precision and control
Normally, 4WD vehicles have short track rods as part of their off-road engineering.
With Freelander's engineering, any adverse steer effects are minimised through the use of a centre take-off steering gear and very long track rods, which keep the front wheels in the direction of travel. Ingenious engineering has allowed this design to be evolved without any compromise to off-road ability, and the rack is high mounted to protect it from damage.
On the new 2.0 TD4 litre diesel model, a dynamic absorber has also been introduced to improve handling even further.
Manoeuvrability
It takes 3.2 turns of the steering wheel to take the Freelander from lock to lock, delivering a turning circle of 11.6m.
The Benefits
- Improved straight line handling
- Maximum traction is maintained at all times
- Precision, agility and control
- Good steering feel at higher speeds
- Lightness and manoeuvrability at lower speeds
