Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP), the foremost car safety assessment organization, regularly tests and publishes crash test results for various popular cars sold in India. Their ratings provide valuable insights into a model’s structural integrity and ability to protect occupants in the event of an accident.
These safety features are paramount in modern vehicles, engineered to absorb impact effectively during accidents and, ideally, prevent collisions entirely. We’ve curated a list of the safest cars in India, all evaluated and rated by the Global NCAP (GNCAP).
List of Global NCAP rated Safest Cars in India in 2024 [Updated]
| Sl. No. | Car | GNCAP Rating – Adult Occupant score (Maximum 17 points) | GNCAP Rating – Child Occupant score (Maximum 49 points) | Ex-showroom price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tata Harrier | 5 stars (33.05 max. 34 points)* | 5 stars (45.00) | Rs. 15.49 lakh to Rs. 24.49 lakh |
| 2 | Tata Safari | 5 stars (33.05 max. 34 points)* | 5 stars (45.00) | Rs. 16.19 lakh to Rs. 25.49 lakh |
| 3 | Volkswagen Virtus | 5 stars (29.71 max. 34 points)* | 5 stars (42.00) | Rs. 11.48 lakh to Rs. 19.29 lakh |
| 4 | Skoda Slavia | 5 stars (29.71 max. 34 points)* | 5 stars (42.00) | Rs. 10.89 lakh to Rs. 19.12 lakh |
| 5 | Skoda Kushaq | 5 stars (29.64 max. 34 points)* | 5 stars (42.00) | Rs. 10.89 lakh to Rs. 20 lakh |
| 6 | Volkswagen Taigun | 5 stars (29.64 max. 34 points)* | 5 stars (42.00) | Rs. 11.62 lakh to Rs. 19.76 lakh |
| 7 | Hyundai Verna | 5 stars (28.18 max. 34 points)* | 5 stars (42.00) | Rs. 10.96 lakh to Rs. 17.38 lakh |
| 8 | Mahindra Scorpio N | 5 stars (29.25 max. 34 points)* | 3 stars (28.93) | Rs. 12.73 lakh to Rs. 24.03 lakh |
| 9 | Tata Punch | 5 stars (16.45) | 4 stars (40.89) | Rs. 5.82 lakh to Rs. 9.48 lakh |
| 10 | Mahindra XUV300 | 5 stars (16.42) | 4 stars (41.66) | Rs. 8.42 lakh to Rs. 12.38 lakh |
| 11 | Tata Altroz | 5 stars (16.13) | 3 stars (29.00) | Rs. 6.20 lakh to Rs. 10.15 lakh |
| 12 | Tata Nexon | 5 stars (16.06) | 3 stars (25.00) | Rs. 7.54 lakh to Rs. 13.80 lakh |
| 13 | Mahindra XUV700 | 5 stars (16.03) | 4 stars (41.66) | Rs. 13.18 lakh to Rs. 24. 58 lakh |
| 14 | Honda Jazz | 4 stars (13.89) | 3 stars (31.54) | Rs. 7.90 lakh to Rs. 10.21 lakh |
| 15 | Toyota Urban Cruiser | 4 stars (13.52) | 3 stars (36.68) | Rs. 9.02 lakh to Rs. 11.73 lakh |
| 16 | Mahindra Marazzo | 4 stars (12.85) | 2 stars (22.22) | Rs. 13.18 lakh to Rs. 15.35 lakh |
| 17 | Mahindra Thar | 4 stars (12.52) | 4 stars (41.11) | Rs. 13.53 lakh to Rs. 16.02 lakh |
| 18 | Tata Tigor | 4 stars (ICE – 12.52/EV – 12) | 3 stars (34.15) | Rs. 5.97 lakh to Rs. 8.56 lakh |
| 19 | Tata Tiago | 4 stars (12.52) | 3 stars (34.15) | Rs. 5.37 lakh to Rs. 7.79 lakh |
| 20 | Maruti Suzuki Brezza | 4 stars (12.51) | 2 stars (17.93) | Rs. 7.84 lakh to Rs. 11.33 lakh |
| 21 | Renault Kiger | 4 stars (12.34) | 2 stars (21.05) | Rs. 5.99 lakhs to Rs. 10.57 lakh |
| 22 | Honda City (4th Generation) | 4 stars (12.03) | 4 stars (38.27) | Rs. 9.50 lakh to Rs. 9.99 lakh |
What is Global NCAP? What’s Its Significance?
In 1978, the United States introduced the New Car Assessment Program, commonly known as NCAP. Before delving into how vehicles are graded for safety, it’s crucial to understand the testing process.
The Global NCAP test aims to mimic a head-on collision scenario between two cars. The vehicle under scrutiny travels at a constant speed of 64 kilometers per hour and collides with a deformable wall of similar weight.
However, in India, the regulatory standards for automobile crash testing differ slightly. Instead of maintaining a speed of 64 kmph, the front offset test in India caps the speed at just 56 kmph. Consequently, some cars may score well in safety according to the Indian Government’s testing but fall short of high grades in the NCAP test.
What Does NCAP Evaluation Entail?
NCAP employs a star rating system to assess vehicle safety, with the safest cars receiving 5 stars, while less safe ones are rated lower. Two primary categories are taken into account:
- Adult Occupant Protection
- Child Occupant Protection
Understanding these aspects is crucial when determining the safest car options available in India. This knowledge empowers buyers to prioritize protection when selecting a vehicle.
Now, let’s explore the top 10 safest cars currently available in India.
Top 10 Safest Cars in India with 5-Star Global NCAP rating in 2024
1. Tata Harrier
Tata Motors has introduced the facelifted Harrier in India, generating buzz not only for its bold aesthetics but also for its exceptional safety standards. Notably, the SUV has secured a prestigious 5-star safety rating from the Global New Car Assessment Program (G-NCAP).
In the adult occupant category, the Harrier achieved an impressive score of 33.05 out of a possible 34 points, underscoring its robust construction. Equally commendable is its performance in the child occupant category, where it earned 45 points out of a maximum of 49, further highlighting its solid build quality.
Standard across all variants are six airbags, with top-spec models additionally featuring a driver knee airbag. Furthermore, the Harrier comes equipped with a range of safety technologies, including ISOFIX child seat mounts and an Electronic Stability Program, among others. With an ex-showroom price ranging from Rs. 15.49 lakhs to Rs. 25.49 lakhs, the Tata Harrier offers both style and substance, prioritizing safety without compromising on performance or design.
| Safety Feature | Description |
| Six Airbags | Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags |
| Electronic Stability Program (ESP) | Helps maintain vehicle stability during sudden maneuvers |
| Corner Stability Control | Assists in maintaining stability while cornering |
| Hill Hold Assist | Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward on inclines |
| Panic Brake Alert | Activates during emergency braking to alert nearby vehicles |
| Rear Parking Sensor | Aids in parking by detecting obstacles behind the vehicle |
| Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) | Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking, enhancing control |
2. Tata Safari
Tata Motors has unveiled the facelifted Safari alongside the updated Harrier, showcasing subtle exterior enhancements and maintaining the 7-seater configuration. Notably, this SUV, derived from the Harrier platform, has secured an impressive 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP crash tests.
In the adult occupant category, the Safari attained an exceptional score of 33.05 out of 34 points, highlighting its robust construction. Similarly, it achieved a commendable score of 45 out of 49 points in the child occupant category, mirroring the Harrier’s impressive performance and reinforcing its solid build quality.
Much like its sibling, the Safari boasts an array of safety features, including six airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), traction control, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and hill-hold assist, among others. With an ex-showroom price ranging from Rs. 16.19 lakh to Rs. 25.49 lakh, the Tata Safari combines safety and versatility, catering to the needs of discerning families while prioritizing passenger protection without compromising on style or performance.
| Safety Feature | Description |
| Six Airbags | Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags |
| Electronic Stability Program (ESP) | Helps maintain vehicle stability during sudden maneuvers |
| Corner Stability Control | Assists in maintaining stability while cornering |
| Hill Hold Assist | Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward on inclines |
| Panic Brake Alert | Activates during emergency braking to alert nearby vehicles |
| Rear Parking Sensor | Aids in parking by detecting obstacles behind the vehicle |
| Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) | Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking, enhancing control |
3. Volkswagen Virtus
Volkswagen’s Virtus, a prominent contender in the premium mid-size sedan segment, competes directly with popular models like the Honda City and Hyundai Verna. Following thorough testing by Global NCAP, the sedan has distinguished itself as a safety leader. Achieving an impressive 5-star rating in both adult and child occupant categories, the Virtus secured 29.71 and 42 points, respectively, affirming its position as one of India’s safest sedans.
Equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), park distance control, rear-view camera, Hill Hold Assist, and Multi-collision brakes, the VW Virtus prioritizes passenger safety. Priced between Rs. 11.48 lakh and Rs. 19.29 lakh (ex-showroom), the Volkswagen Virtus blends safety, performance, and elegance, setting a new standard for safety in its segment.
| Safety Feature | Description |
| Six Airbags | Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags |
| Electronic Stability Control | Helps maintain vehicle stability during maneuvers |
| Traction Control | Helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts | Secure attachment points for child safety seats |
| Tyre Pressure Deflation Warning | Alerts driver to low tyre pressure |
| Brake Assist | Enhances braking in emergency situations |
| Hill-Hold Assist | Prevents vehicle rollback on inclines |
| Front Seatbelt Reminder | Alerts occupants to fasten seatbelts |
4. Skoda Slavia
In the premium mid-size sedan segment, the Skoda Slavia shares the same pedigree as its sibling, the Volkswagen Virtus. Both models have earned a prestigious 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP crash tests. Mirroring the Virtus, the Slavia achieved identical scores of 29.71 points in the adult occupant category and 42 points in the child occupant category.
Equipped with a range of safety features, including six airbags, ABS, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electronic Stability Control, and more, the Skoda Slavia prioritizes passenger safety and peace of mind. With an ex-showroom price ranging from Rs. 10.89 lakh to Rs. 19.12 lakh, the Skoda Slavia offers uncompromising safety and sophistication, further solidifying its position as a top contender in its segment.
| Safety Feature | Description |
| Six Airbags | Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags |
| ABS with EBD | Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution |
| Multi Collision Braking | Automatically applies brakes after a collision to prevent further impacts |
| Traction Control | Helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration |
| Hill-Hold Control | Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward on inclines |
| TPMS | Tyre Pressure Monitoring System |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts | Secure attachment points for child safety seats |
5. Skoda Kushaq
In the competitive mid-size SUV segment, the Skoda Kushaq stands out as a formidable contender, challenging established models with its impressive features. Having undergone stringent testing by Global NCAP, the Kushaq has emerged as a leader in safety. Earning a prestigious 5-star rating in both adult and child occupant categories, with impressive scores of 29.64 and 42 respectively, the Kushaq solidifies its reputation as one of India’s safest SUVs.
Loaded with advanced safety features such as six airbags, rollover protection, traction control, ABS, brake disc wiping, and TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System), the Skoda Kushaq prioritizes passenger safety without compromise. With an ex-showroom price ranging from Rs. 10.89 lakh to Rs. 20 lakh, the Skoda Kushaq offers a compelling blend of safety, performance, and style, making it a top choice for discerning SUV buyers.
| Safety Feature | Description |
| Six Airbags | Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags |
| ABS with EBD | Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution |
| Multi Collision Braking | Automatically applies brakes after a collision to prevent further impacts |
| Traction Control | Helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration |
| Hill-Hold Control | Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward on inclines |
| TPMS | Tyre Pressure Monitoring System |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts | Secure attachment points for child safety seats |
6. Hyundai Verna
With an ex-showroom price ranging from Rs. 10.96 lakhs to Rs. 17.38 lakhs, the new Hyundai Verna showcases a radical exterior design highlighted by its eye-catching LED DRL bar at the front. However, beyond its aesthetic appeal, the sedan excels in safety, earning a prestigious 5-star rating from the Global New Car Assessment Program (G-NCAP).
Scoring 28.18 points out of 34 in the adult occupant category and an impressive 42 points out of 49 in the child occupant category, the Verna prioritizes passenger safety. Equipped with standard safety features such as six airbags, hill-start assist, automatic headlamps, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and more, the Hyundai Verna ensures comprehensive protection for occupants in various driving conditions.
| Safety Feature | Description |
| Six Airbags | Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags |
| Electronic Stability Control | Helps maintain vehicle stability during maneuvers |
| Corner Stability Control | Enhances stability during cornering |
| Hill Start Assist | Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward on hills |
| Vehicle Stability Management | Helps maintain control during sudden maneuvers |
| Rear Parking Sensor | Aids in parking by alerting the driver of obstacles |
| Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) | Prevents wheel lock-up during braking |
7. Mahindra Scorpio-N
The Mahindra Scorpio-N, the latest iteration of the iconic SUV with nearly two decades of presence in the Indian market, introduces a modern twist with fresh design elements, updated features, and enhanced safety provisions. Undergoing rigorous testing by Global NCAP, the Scorpio-N achieves an impressive 5-star safety rating in the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) category, setting a new standard for safety in India. It secured a commendable score of 29.25 out of 34 points in this category.
In the Child Occupant Protection (COP) category, the SUV earns a respectable 3-star rating, with a score of 28.93 out of 49 points. Standard safety features of the Mahindra Scorpio-N include dual front airbags, ABS, EBD, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
With an ex-showroom price ranging from Rs. 11.99 lakhs to Rs. 23.90 lakhs, the Scorpio-N promises not only a refreshed appearance and updated features but also a commitment to passenger safety, making it a compelling choice in the SUV segment.
| Safety Feature | Description |
| Six Airbags | Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags |
| Electronic Stability Control | Enhances vehicle stability during maneuvers |
| Driver Drowsiness Detection | Alerts the driver when signs of drowsiness are detected |
| ABS with EBD | Prevents wheel lock-up during braking |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts | Secure attachment points for child seats |
| TPMS | Monitors tire pressure to alert of low pressure |
| Hill Hold Control | Prevents the vehicle from rolling back on inclines |
| Hill Descent Control | Maintains a steady speed while descending steep slopes |
8. Tata Punch
The Tata Punch, an SUV with an SUV appeal in the micro-SUV segment, is Tata Motors’ entry-level offering that competes in the premium hatchback segment. Despite its compact size, Tata Motors prioritizes safety in the Punch, earning it a remarkable 5-star safety rating in the NCAP assessment. Scoring 16.45 out of 17 points in the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) category and 40.89 out of 49 points in the Child Occupant Protection (COP) category, the Punch excels in providing a secure driving experience.
Equipped with two airbags, 4-channel ABS, ISOFIX anchorage for child occupant protection, and more, the Tata Punch stands as one of the safest cars in India, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. With an ex-showroom price ranging from Rs. 5.82 lakhs to Rs. 9.48 lakhs, the Tata Punch offers both affordability and top-notch safety features, making it a compelling choice in its segment.
| Safety Features |
| Dual airbags |
| ABS with EBD |
| ISOFIX child seat mounts |
| Rear parking sensors |
| Brake Sway Control |
| Reverse parking camera |
| TPMS |
9. Mahindra XUV300
The Mahindra XUV300 stands as the first Mahindra vehicle to achieve a 5-star rating from GNCAP, showcasing its commitment to safety. Packed with advanced safety features, including six airbags in the top variant, this compact SUV prioritizes passenger protection. With an impressive 5-star rating in the AOP category and a commendable 4-star rating in the COP category, scoring 16.42 and 37.44 points respectively out of the maximum scores, the XUV300 sets a high standard for safety among Indian cars.
| Safety Feature | Description |
| Six Airbags | Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags |
| Electronic Stability Control | Enhances vehicle stability during maneuvers |
| Driver Drowsiness Detection | Alerts the driver when signs of drowsiness are detected |
| ABS with EBD | Prevents wheel lock-up during braking |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts | Secure attachment points for child seats |
| TPMS | Monitors tire pressure to alert of low pressure |
| Hill Hold Control | Prevents the vehicle from rolling back on inclines |
| Hill Descent Control | Maintains a steady speed while descending steep slopes |
10. Tata Nexon
The Tata Nexon holds the distinction of being the first made-in-India vehicle to achieve a prestigious 5-star rating from the Global NCAP, underscoring its commitment to safety. In the adult occupant protection category, the Nexon scored an impressive 16.06 points out of a maximum of 17, securing its 5-star rating. Additionally, in the child occupant protection category, it scored 25 points out of a possible 49. Equipped with dual airbags at the front, ABS with EBD, and other safety features, the Tata Nexon prioritizes passenger safety across the board.
| Safety Feature | Description |
| Six Airbags | Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags |
| Electronic Stability Control | Enhances vehicle stability during maneuvers |
| Driver Drowsiness Detection | Alerts the driver when signs of drowsiness are detected |
| ABS with EBD | Prevents wheel lock-up during braking |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts | Secure attachment points for child seats |
| TPMS | Monitors tire pressure to alert of low pressure |
| Hill Hold Control | Prevents the vehicle from rolling back on inclines |
| Hill Descent Control | Maintains a steady speed while descending steep slopes |
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