Range Rover Velar stands out in competitive SUV safety segment

The new Range Rover Velar is the latest vehicle from the increasingly popular SUV category to gain a 5 Star Euro NCAP safety rating.

With Euro NCAP having tested no fewer than 15 SUVs since the start of 2016, Matthew Avery, director of research at Thatcham Research comments, “Modern SUVs perform consistently well in impact testing, particularly for adult occupant protection. The Velar however not only performs well in a crash – especially in Euro NCAP’s exacting side impact test – but also in active safety, with its suite of standard-fit technologies designed to avoid the crash happening at all.”

The Velar’s 72 per cent score for assisted safety features is a notable seven percentage points above average for the SUVs tested since January 2016. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems fitted to the Velar as standard include Interurban Autonomous Emergency Braking, an Adaptive Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warnings and seat-belt reminders for all passengers.

“Following 5 Star ratings for the Discovery and Discovery Sport, this is another signal from Jaguar Land Rover that safety is a priority. The Velar has reviewed positively and will undoubtedly be a popular car. With small SUV sales set to break the two million barrier in 2018, it’s exciting to see one of the leading carmakers in the category deliver on standard-fit active safety systems,” comments Avery.

Thatcham Research recently issued a call, in partnership with the RAC, IAM Roadsmart, the BVRLA and the Road Haulage Association, for greater standard fitment of Autonomous Emergency Braking, highlighting its potential to deliver a 38 per cent reduction in real-world rear-end crashes.