IT seemed only fitting that as Land Rover prepared to wave goodbye to the popular Freelander range that a fully loaded and specced up model was introduced to take the final bow.

The Freelander is being replaced by the new Discovery Sport but the Freelander Metropolis model - which is based on the top-of-the-range HSE - is bursting at the seams with luxurious refinements and techno treats.

For example the interior features premium Windsor leather upholstery, a panoramic glass roof, electrically adjustable seats, touchscreen navigation, a Meridian sound system, luxury carpet mats, a heated steering wheel, reversing camera, metallic paint, xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights and a list that goes on and on.

It looks fabulous from any approach with its sporty, yet rugged stance along with 19-inch alloy diamond turned wheels and its 4x4 capabilities simply reinforce its ‘go-anywhere' attitude.

The interior is spacious with ample room for four adults to stretch out in comfort. The high roofline results in plenty of head room and light floods into the cabin via the large sunroof.

Luggage limitations will rarely be enforced as the Freelander is designed to cope with large loads.

The boot can accommodate 405 litres of luggage and with the 60:40 split folding rear seats lowered this is increased to a whopping 1,670 litres.

The Freelander Metropolis is powered by a 190ps 2.2-litre SD4 turbo diesel engine which delivers ample power as it moves smoothly through the six-speed automatic gearbox.

Admittedly it's not the fastest mover around and sudden bursts of pace do take a little planning, but that aside the vehicle is brilliant fun to drive and ready to take on anything Mother Nature throws its way.

It can reach 62mph from a standing start in 9.5 seconds and has a top speed of 118mph. According to official figures the vehicle can deliver 40.4mpg on a combined run with carbon emissions of 185g/km.

But it's always worth reminding ourselves just how capable the Freelander is when really put to the test with a wading depth of 500mm, obstacle clearance up to 210mm and approach and departure angles that are not for the faint-hearted.

In and around town, the Freelander is very simple to drive and the high seated driving position results in excellent all-round visibility.

Then out on faster lanes, it delivers a comfortable and smooth ride for all occupants. There is a little road, wind and engine noise, but it's not too bad and the impressive audio system soon factors out that issue.

Road-holding also impresses and that means tight bends can be approached with confidence at speed and the excellent suspension somehow manages to iron out all the creases on the roads, with bumps and dips absorbed along the way.

The Freelander is kitted out with a comprehensive array of safety specifications to keep occupants safe both on and off road, where the terrain response system - along with a host of other driver aids - assist in tackling obstacles such as snow, sand, rocks and mud.

All in all, the Metropolis model seems to be the perfect way for the Freelander to sign off after gaining so many fans worldwide over the years.