Choosing the safest car in India has never been more critical. According to 2024 Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) data, India recorded over 4.73 lakh road accidents, resulting in approximately 1.7 lakh fatalities. With road safety becoming a primary concern for Indian buyers, manufacturers are now prioritising high crash test scores.
This guide explores the top-rated vehicles that have earned a 5-star safety rating from the Global NCAP (GNCAP) and the Bharat NCAP (BNCAP), ensuring maximum protection for your family.
What are Global NCAP Ratings, and how do they work?
Keeping passengers' safety in mind, the Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP) was created to evaluate the crash-worthiness of new vehicles built by different auto manufacturers. Through crash testing vehicles in extremely precise methods for repeatability, Global NCAP rates new vehicles. Each vehicle is awarded points for adult and child occupant protection, and is then awarded out of 5 stars.
While the Indian Government has a standard crash test requirement, Global NCAP takes its tests and safety feature requirements a step further. The NCAP safety ratings are designed to help car buyers make a well-informed and informed decision. However, these crash tests are conducted in controlled environments, and real-world results will differ. Additionally, the child occupant protection is only applicable when the child is fastened to a certified child seat in the rear.
The 'Safer Cars for India' programme currently rates all Indian cars, but the global NCAP will soon transfer the rating system for Indian cars to the Bharat NCAP. Launched in 2023, the Bharat NCAP rating criteria draws upon global NCAP protocols.
Global NCAP vs Bharat NCAP: What's the Difference?
While Global NCAP (GNCAP) is an international standard, Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) is India’s own testing agency launched to align with global protocols while considering Indian road conditions. Both agencies use 5-star scales, assessing:
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP)
- Child Occupant Protection (COP)
- Safety Assist Technologies (like ESC and Pedestrian Safety)
List of 5-Star Rating Cars in India by GNCAP
| S.No. | Model | GNCAP Rating - Adult Occupant score | GNCAP Rating - Child Occupant score | Starting Price (Ex-Showroom, Delhi) Ex-showroom price |
| 1 | Tata Harrier/ Tata Safari | 5 Stars | 5 Star | ₹16.07 lakh/ ₹16.82 lakh |
| 2. | Nissan Magnite | 5 Stars | 3 Stars | ₹6.23 lakh |
| 3 | Tata Nexon | 5 Stars | 5 Stars | ₹8.34 lakh |
| 4 | Maruti Suzuki Dzire | 5 Stars | 5 Stars | ₹7.18 lakh |
| 5 | Volkswagen Virtus/Skoda Slavia | 5 Stars | 5 Stars | ₹12.72 lakh/ ₹11.31 lakh |
| 6 | Skoda Kushaq/Volkswagen Taigun | 5 Stars | 5 Stars | ₹12.10 lakh/ ₹12.98 lakh |
| 7 | Mahindra Scorpio N | 5 Stars | 3 Stars | ₹15.28 lakh |
| 8 | Hyundai Verna | 5 Stars | 5 Stars | ₹12.26 lakh |
| 9 | Tata Punch | 5 Stars | 4 Stars | ₹6.15 lakh |
| 10 | Mahindra XUV300 | 5 Stars | 4 Stars | ₹8.32 lakh |
| 11 | Tata Altroz | 5 Stars | 3 Stars | ₹7.21 lakh |
| 12 | Mahindra XUV700 | 5 Stars | 4 Stars | ₹15.80 lakh |
Note: Since July 2022, the GNCAP testing rules have changed. Cars are now scored out of 34, while some cars still carry scores out of 17 because they were tested earlier. However, the final star ratings are still used to compare the safety of different cars.
1. Tata Harrier/Tata Safari
The flagship SUVs from Tata Motors currently lead the charts as some of the safest vehicles ever tested for the Indian market. Built on the Land Rover-derived OMEGARC platform, these SUVs offer structural integrity that remains stable under severe impact.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP & BNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- 7 Airbags (including driver knee airbag)
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Level 2
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- All-wheel disc brakes
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 33.0/34 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 45.0/49 |
A second-hand Tata Harrier is a fantastic option for those looking for a reliable and affordable used car that still offers impressive safety.
2. Nissan Magnite
The refreshed Nissan Magnite has significantly improved its safety credentials. After the 2025 update, it moved from a 4-star to a 5-star adult protection rating under the newer, more stringent protocols.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- 6 Airbags now standard across the range
- Traction Control System (TCS) and Hydraulic Brake Assist
- Around View Monitor (360-degree camera)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 32.31/34 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 33.64/49 |
A second hand Nissan Magnite car give you the perfect balance of price and safety, making it an affordable secure ride for you and your family.
3. Tata Nexon / Punch
Tata’s compact SUV lineup proves that you don't need a massive budget for 5-star safety. The Nexon was the first Indian car to achieve this feat.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP / BNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- Fortified high-strength steel structure
- Dual front airbags (6 on higher Nexon trims)
- Corner Stability Control
- Roll-over mitigation
- Emergency puncture repair kit
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 32.2/34 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 44.5/49 |
If you're in the market for a used Tata Nexon, this second-hand vehicle delivers both safety and practicality at a fraction of the price of new models. In fact, it wouldn't be wrong to call the Tata Nexon one of India's safest cars under the 10 lakh price bracket.
4. Maruti Suzuki Dzire
In a historic shift for Maruti Suzuki, the new Dzire has become the first model from the brand to secure a full 5-star rating. It has redefined the compact sedan segment by proving that affordability can coexist with world-class safety.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- 6 Airbags standard across all variants
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Hill Hold Assist
- 3-point seatbelts for all passengers
- ABS with EBD
- Pedestrian protection compliant
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 31.2/34 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 39.2/49 |
Used Maruti Suzuki Dzire is a great choice for people looking for an affordable and safe sedan.
5. Volkswagen Virtus/Skoda Slavia
These German-engineered sedans share the MQB-A0-IN platform, specifically designed for Indian conditions. They boast the highest scores for both adult and child occupant protection in the sedan category.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- Multi-collision brakes
- Traction Control and Electronic Differential Lock
- 6 Airbags and reinforced side-impact beams
- Brake disc wiping for better wet-weather stopping
- Top-tether ISOFIX mounts
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 29.7/34 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 42.0/49 |
A second-hand Volkswagen Virtus could be just what you need for reliable daily commutes and family trips.
6. Skoda Kushaq/Volkswagen Taigun
These mid-size SUVs were the first to score 5 stars for both Adult and Child protection under Global NCAP’s newer, more stringent protocols. They are celebrated for their "German-build" quality and precise engineering.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- Multi-collision braking system
- Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) for better traction
- Side impact protection beams in all doors
- Brake Assist and Hill Hold Control
- Roll-over mitigation system
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 29.6/34 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 42.0/49 |
A used Skoda Kushaq offers excellent value for money, providing top-tier features and performance at a much lower price than a new model.
7. Mahindra Scorpio N
The Scorpio-N has transformed the "macho" SUV image by adding a world-class safety net. It is built on a high-strength steel ladder-frame chassis that provides exceptional structural rigidity during off-road and on-road impacts.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- 6 Airbags (including side and curtain)
- Ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels
- Driver Drowsiness Detection
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Brake Disc Wiping
- ISOFIX with top-tether child seat anchors
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 29.2/34 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 28.9/49 |
Whether you're buying your first car or adding to your collection, a used Scorpio N is a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable second-hand vehicle.
8. Hyundai Verna
The new-gen Verna made history as the first Hyundai in India to receive a 5-star Global NCAP rating. It combines high-speed stability with a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- Hyundai SmartSense (Level 2 ADAS)
- 6 Airbags standard on all variants
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors with Camera
- Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (Highline TPMS)
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 28.1/34 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 42.0/49 |
A used Hyundai Verna is the perfect car for anyone seeking both reliability and safety without the high cost of buying new.
9. Tata Punch
The Tata Punch redefined the entry-level segment by proving that compact cars can offer premium safety. Built on the ALFA architecture, it remains the highest-rated micro-SUV in India for structural integrity.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- Dual front airbags (6 on 2026 Facelift)
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Brake Sway Control
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Rear parking camera with dynamic guidelines
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 16.4/17 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 40.8/49 |
Don't miss out on the chance to own a second-hand Tata Punch. This used car combines quality and affordability in a way that’s hard to beat.
10. Mahindra XUV3X0
Formerly the XUV300, the 3XO continues the legacy of being the safest compact SUV in its segment. It boasts the highest score for adult protection in its class, thanks to its wide stance and robust build.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (BNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- First-in-segment Level 2 ADAS
- 6 Airbags as standard
- All-wheel disc brakes for superior stopping power
- 3-point seatbelts with reminders for all 5 passengers
- Blind View Monitor with 360-degree camera
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 16.4/17 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 37.4/49 |
A used Mahindra XUV 300 is an ideal option for those who want a quality second-hand car that still offers the performance and features of a newer model.
11. Tata Altroz
The Altroz remains the benchmark for safety in the premium hatchback segment. Its ALFA (Agile Light Flexible Advanced) architecture is designed to absorb high-impact energy during collisions.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP / BNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- ALFA architecture with high-strength steel
- Corner Stability Control
- Dual front airbags (6 in higher variants)
- Voice-activated safety alerts
- ABS with EBD and CSC
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 16.1/17 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 29.0/49 |
The second-hand Tata Altroz offers great fuel efficiency and comfort, making it an ideal choice for those in need of a used car that’s both practical and affordable.
12. Mahindra XUV700
The XUV700 was a pioneer in bringing ADAS technology to the masses in India. It remains a top choice for those seeking a "fortress on wheels" with high-tech preventive safety.
- NCAP Rating: 5-Star (GNCAP)
- Safety Features:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Forward Collision Warning
- Lane Keep Assist and Smart Pilot Assist
- 7 Airbags and a crash-resistant monocoque chassis
- Driver drowsiness alert
| GNCAP Rating: Adult Occupant Score | 16.0/17 |
| GNCAP Rating: Child Occupant Score | 41.6/49 |
For those in need of a reliable and affordable car, a second-hand Mahindra XUV700 is an excellent choice that offers quality and comfort at a reasonable price.
Conclusion
According to McKinsey's Automotive Consumer Survey, 78% (approximately) of Indian car buyers focus on safety rankings and car features before making the final decision.
In addition, the launch of Bharat NCAP showcases the motivation of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to ensure that Indian roads become safer. However, the onus lies not only on the ministry and manufacturers, but also on the buyers (and drivers) to ensure that not only are they driving safely, but they also make the right decision when purchasing a car.
