LAND Rover has upgraded the 12-month warranty on all its vehicles to a free-of-charge comprehensive three years/ 60,000 miles. A dealer warranty will now protect the Land Rover Defender, Freelander, Discovery and Range Rover for an additional two years, in an enhancement worth about £400 to buyers.

The new cover applies with immediate effect, and has been widely anticipated since the launch of the highly regarded Freelander. With the majority of leading 4x4 vehicles already covered by such warranties the move brings Land Rover into line with most of its major competitors.

The longer warranty does not extend to Rover, which is maintaining its 12-month manufacturer cover. Steve Harris, Rover Group UK's corporate sales director, said: 'As far as Rover is concerned, this is a situation we will continue to monitor. Three-year warranties are still available as part of negotiations and customers have the choice of whether to take up the extra warranty or not.'