Jonathan Mabey, Land Rover’s Vehicle Safety Manager, said, “Safety is of paramount importance for Land Rover and for Freelander 2 to be the only compact SUV to be awarded the maximum star rating is a fantastic achievement.”

Other safety features on Freelander 2, voted Best Compact 4x4 by WhatCar? magazine, include advanced stability and traction aids, including Electronic Traction Control, Dynamic Stability Control and Hill Descent Control and new Gradient Release Control system which improve driver control on steep hills. Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Emergency Brake Assist and Corner Brake Control all help avoid accidents – as does the command driving position that provides improved visibility, giving the driver a better view of the road ahead.

Secondary safety starts with the strong monocoque body and its inner ‘safety cell’. Front and rear crumple zones are designed to help absorb as much energy as possible during an impact. Side-impact protection is further assisted by the ultra-high-strength steel door beams. Front seatbelts have dual pre-tensioners and all Freelander 2 models feature seven airbags.