Safest Cars in India with Global NCAP Ratings 2025

Whether you are looking to buy a sedan, a hatchback or a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), safety is an aspect you can’t overlook. The good news is that today’s auto manufacturers also regard safety as extremely important. Safety is no longer a luxury but a standard offering from most car manufacturers in India nowadays. However, there are some cars that stand out due to their high safety standards. As per the Global New Car Assessment Program (GNCAP), these cars have the highest star ratings. For the unaware, GNCAP is a UK-based project that carries out car safety tests in developing countries and rates them on different parameters, such as adult occupant protection and child occupant protection. The higher the overall star rating, the safer the car.

List of Safest Cars in India in 2025 with Global NCAP Safety Ratings

Top Safest Cars in India in 2025 As Per Global NCAP Ratings

Here are the top cars to consider if safety is your main priority:

Tata Harrier – 5-star GNCAP rating

The recently facelifted Tata Harrier not only looks tough but scores extremely well on safety parameters too. It has secured a remarkable 5-star GNCAP rating. With an adult occupant score of 33.05 out of 34 points and a child occupant score of 45 out of 49 points, the Harrier stands tall in the safety spectrum. Tata Harrier safety features include:

1. Six airbags
2. Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
3. Hill Hold Assist
4. Rear Parking Sensor
5. Corner Stability Control
6. Panic Brake Control
7. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Tata Safari – 5-star GNCAP Rating

Along with the Harrier, Tata Motors has also given the iconic Safari a facelift. The 7-seater Safari, with its bold exterior and tough build, mirrors the Harrier with a 5-star GNCAP rating and scores of 33.05 and 45 points in the adult and child occupant categories respectively. Tata Safari’s safety features are similar to that of the Harrier as well, with the addition of Traction Control.

1. Six airbags
2. ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
3. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
4. Multi-collision Braking
5. Traction Control
6. Hill-hold control
7. ISOFIX child seat mounts

Volkswagen Virtus – 5-star GNCAP Rating

In the premium mid-size sedan category, the Volkswagen Virtus shines with a 5-star GNCAP rating. Scoring 29.71 and 42 points in the adult and child occupant categories respectively, the Virtus can be considered one of the safest sedans in the Indian market currently. Volkswagen Virtus safety features include:

1. Park Distance Control
2. Hill Hold Assist
3. Multi-collision Brakes
4. ISOFIX child seat mounts
5. Tyre Pressure Deflation Warning
6. Traction Control.

Skoda Slavia – 5-star GNCAP Rating

Similar to the Virtus in more than one parameter, the Skoda Slavia also has a matching 5-star GNCAP rating. The Slavia has an identical score of 29.71 and 42 points in the adult and child occupant categories respectively, reflecting its commitment to safety. Skoda Slavia safety features include:

1. Six airbags
2. ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
3. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
4. Multi-collision Braking
5. Traction Control
6. Hill-hold controlISOFIX child seat mounts.

Skoda Kushaq – 5-star GNCAP Rating

When it comes to the mid-size SUV segment, the Skoda Kushaq is a top choice for safety-conscious buyers. It has secured a 5-star GNCAP rating, with an impressive score of 29.64 and 42 in the adult and child occupant protection categories respectively. Add to this, its stylish and bold look makes it the right package for any SUV enthusiast. Skoda Kushaq safety features include:

1. Six airbags
2. Electronic Stability Program
3. TPMS
4. Central Locking
5. Hill Assist
6. Reverse Camera
7. Auto-Dimming Rear-view Mirror
8. ISOFIX child seat mounts.

Volkswagen Taigun – 5-star GNCAP Rating

The Volkswagen Taigun is similar to its competitor, the Kushaq, with a stellar 5-star GNCAP rating. Identical scores of 29.64 and 42 points in adult and child occupant categories confirm its commitment to safety. Volkswagen Taigun safety features include:

1. Six airbags
2. Electronic Stability Control
3. Multi-collision Brakes
4. ISOFIX child seat mounts
5. Brake Assist
6. Traction Control
7. Tyre Pressure Deflation Warning.

Hyundai Verna – 5-star GNCAP Rating

With its eye-catching exterior design and front LED DRLs, the new Hyundai Verna not only turns heads but also secures a commendable 5-star GNCAP safety rating. Scoring 28.18 and 42 points in the adult and child occupant categories, the Verna seems to be the perfect combination of aesthetics and safety. Hyundai Verna safety features include:

1. Six airbags
2. Anti-lock Braking System
3. Electronic Stability Program
4. Corner Stability Program
5. Hill Start Assist
6. Vehicle Stability Management
7. Rear Parking Sensor.

General Safety Characteristics to Consider When Purchasing a Car

When buying a car, safety should be a top priority. Here are key safety features to look for:

1. Airbags – Front, side, and curtain airbags provide impact protection.
2. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) – Prevents wheel lock-up during emergency braking.
3. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) – Helps maintain control during skidding.
4. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) – Alerts low tyre pressure for better stability.
5. ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors – Securely fastens child seats.
6. Crash Test Ratings – Check Global NCAP ratings for safety performance.
7. Hill-hold Control – Prevents rollback on slopes.
8. Traction Control System (TCS) – Enhances grip on slippery roads.
9. Multi-Collision Braking – Reduces impact after an initial collision.

Choosing a car with these features enhances road safety and reduces accident risks.

Why are Safety Ratings Necessary for Cars?

Safety ratings play a crucial role in evaluating a car’s ability to protect occupants during accidents. These ratings, provided by organizations like Global NCAP, assess crashworthiness based on controlled crash tests. A higher safety rating means better protection in case of collisions, reducing the risk of serious injuries or fatalities. Ratings also help consumers make informed decisions, encouraging manufacturers to improve safety features. Features like airbags, ABS, and stability control contribute to better ratings. With rising road accidents, safety ratings ensure vehicles meet essential protection standards, making roads safer for everyone. Vehicle specifications, features, and pricing may vary, and it is essential for readers to verify the latest information from authorised dealerships, manufacturers, or reliable sources before making any purchasing decisions. Just like advanced safety features can protect the car and the people inside it against accidents and the like, a comprehensive vehicle insurance plan protects against the financial consequences of such events.* Whether your car suffers damages due to accidents, or natural disasters, or gets stolen, a well-designed vehicle insurance plan can come to your financial rescue. It will provide the financial support required to get your precious four-wheeler back on track.* Additionally, comprehensive car insurance plans also provide third-party liability coverage, which is mandatory as per prevailing laws.* Click here to buy a Car Insurance plan. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under motor insurance policy.

Conclusion

The safest cars in India, as per Global NCAP ratings, include Tata Harrier, Tata Safari, Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and Hyundai Verna, all boasting 5-star ratings. These vehicles offer top-tier safety features like six airbags, ESP, ABS, and hill assist. While advanced safety features protect occupants, comprehensive car insurance safeguards against financial losses due to accidents, theft, or natural disasters. Choosing a safe car and a reliable insurance plan ensures all-around protection. Also Read: What is Global NCAP Safety Rating?

FAQs

1. How does Global NCAP testing impact car safety ratings in India?

Global NCAP testing evaluates the crashworthiness of cars sold in India, influencing consumer awareness and manufacturer priorities. Higher safety ratings encourage automakers to enhance structural integrity and safety features, leading to safer vehicles on Indian roads.

2. What are the key safety features to look for in a car?

Essential safety features include airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), ISOFIX child seat anchors, reinforced body structure, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane assist and autonomous braking.

3. What role do airbags and ABS play in car safety ratings?

Airbags reduce impact forces during collisions, preventing severe injuries, while ABS prevents wheel lock-up, improving control during sudden braking. Both significantly enhance crash safety, contributing to better NCAP ratings.

4. Are there any Indian-made cars that have received a 5-star safety rating?

Yes, several Indian-made cars have received a 5-star Global NCAP rating, including Tata Safari, Tata Harrier, Tata Nexon, Tata Punch, Mahindra XUV700, and Mahindra Scorpio-N, showcasing improved safety standards in the Indian auto industry.

5. Which is the No. 1 safest car?

The Tata Harrier is currently recognized as the safest car in India, achieving a 5-star rating in Global NCAP's adult occupant protection category.

6. Which is the strongest car in India?

The Tata Harrier is noted for its robust build quality, contributing to its high safety ratings.

7. Which car has a 1-star rating?

The Mahindra Bolero Neo received a 1-star rating for both adult and child occupant protection in Global NCAP crash tests.

8. Is the NCAP rating reliable?

Yes, Global NCAP ratings are considered reliable as they are based on standardized crash tests assessing vehicle safety.

9. Which Indian cars have passed the Global NCAP crash test?

Several Indian cars have undergone and passed Global NCAP crash tests, including models from Tata Motors and Mahindra.

10. How is the safety rating determined in the Global NCAP safety test?

Global NCAP determines safety ratings through controlled crash tests, evaluating factors like structural integrity and effectiveness of safety features.

11. What cars have the strongest build quality?

Cars like the Tata Harrier and Tata Safari are known for their strong build quality, contributing to high safety ratings.

12. Which SUV received a 5-star rating in the Global NCAP safety test?

The Tata Safari has received a 5-star rating in Global NCAP safety tests.

13. Which car is best for family?

The Tata Safari is considered an excellent family car due to its spacious interior and high safety ratings. *Standard T&C apply. Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.