THE Land Rover Freelander 2 has become the first small off-roader to be awarded a maximum five stars for adult occupant protection in Euro NCAP crash tests.

It is one of two vehicles to have undergone testing, the other being the Suzuki Grand Vitara which was awarded four stars.

The Freelander was first tested in 2003 when it achieved a three star rating.

Euro NCAP secretary general, Adrian Hobbs, said: ‘I am delighted that Land Rover has made such an improvement to the level of protection offered to its occupants. It is perhaps surprising that, until now, no small off-roader has managed to achieve a five star rating.’

The Freelander only scored one star for pedestrian protection, for which the Grand Vitara scored three stars.