I'm looking at potentially making an offer on a fairly clean looking 2002 Freelander. According to the owner it's a V6, got about 140k on the ticker and, naturally, they state it's in "very good condition". I'm looking for a competent SUV to take off-road here in the Nevada desert. I'm going to be heading up into the mountains and traversing desert terrain so I need something that's not going to wind up with frame damage because I went through a dry river bed or whatnot.

1st: Would a Freelander fit the bill for this type of terrain? I'm hesitant because it's unibody instead of body on frame but I know Land Rovers are supposed to be pretty rugged and can take some punishment.
2nd: If it's a decent off-roader, then what are the things I should be on the lookout for when I go see the vehicle?