The new Range Rover Evoque has been awarded the maximum five-star safety rating by Euro NCAP.

It achieved a high Adult Occupant Protection score of 94%, while offering a suite of standard-fit collision avoidance technology.

Citroen’s new C5 Aircross was awarded a four-star rating in the latest round of tests, although a five-star rating was awarded for  vehicles equipped with the safety pack - which is standard in the UK. It includes an enhanced Autonomous Emergency Braking system capable of detecting cyclists.

Matthew Avery, director of research at Thatcham Research, said: “The new Range Rover Evoque is another sterling Jaguar Land Rover product. JLR’s commitment to safety is not in question; in 2017 it committed to fitting all new models with Autonomous Emergency Braking as standard, while all models launched since 2011 have achieved five-star Euro NCAP ratings.”

Lexus, Seat, Skoda, Subaru and Volvo are the only other carmakers to achieve five-star ratings for all models released over the same period.

Avery added: “It is pleasing to see a carmaker maintaining such a consistent five-star safety record, working with Euro NCAP to protect occupants and vulnerable road users. The small SUV category is growing fast, so it’s important that carmakers like JLR continue to raise the bar in such a popular segment.

Consumer take up of optional safety packs is very low, below 5%. Avery said it is vital that carmakers fit this safety equipment as standard to protect occupants and vulnerable road users.