• Whether you are interested in purchasing a sedan, a hatchback, or a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), safety is a factor you shouldn’t ignore. The positive aspect is that currently, auto manufacturers place a significant emphasis on safety. Safety has transitioned from being a luxury to a standard feature offered by most car manufacturers in India these days.

• Nonetheless, some cars distinguish themselves due to their exceptional safety standards. According to the Global New Car Assessment Program (GNCAP), these vehicles hold the highest star ratings.

• For those who are not aware, GNCAP is a UK-based initiative that performs car safety evaluations in developing nations and assesses them based on various criteria, including adult occupant safety and child occupant safety. The overall star rating indicates how safe the car is.

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 leading cars to think about if safety is your primary concern:

Tata Harrier – 5-star GNCAP rating

The newly updated Tata Harrier not only appears robust but also performs exceptionally well in safety assessments. It has achieved an impressive 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 excels in the safety arena. Tata Harrier safety features include:

• Six airbags
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Hill Hold Assist
• Rear Parking Sensor
• Corner Stability Control
• Panic Brake Control
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Tata Safari – 5-star GNCAP Rating

In addition to the Harrier, Tata Motors has also revamped the legendary Safari. The 7-seater Safari, featuring its bold design and sturdy construction, shares the Harrier’s 5-star GNCAP rating, achieving scores of 33. 05 and 45 points in the adult and child occupant categories, respectively.

• Tata Safari’s safety features are comparable to those of the Harrier, with the enhancement of Traction Control.

• Six airbags
• ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Multi-collision Braking
• Traction Control
• Hill-hold control
• ISOFIX child seat mounts

Volkswagen Virtus – 5-star GNCAP Rating

Among the premium mid-size sedans, the Volkswagen Virtus stands out with a 5-star GNCAP rating. Achieving scores of 29. 71 and 42 points in the adult and child occupant categories respectively, the Virtus is considered one of the safest sedans available in the Indian marketplace right now. Volkswagen Virtus safety features include:

• Park Distance Control
• Hill Hold Assist
• Multi-collision Brakes
• ISOFIX child seat mounts
• Tyre Pressure Deflation Warning
• Traction Control.

Skoda Slavia – 5-star GNCAP Rating
Similar to the Virtus in multiple aspects, the Skoda Slavia also possesses a corresponding 5-star GNCAP rating. The Slavia has a matching score of 29. 71 and 42 points in the adult and child occupant categories respectively, showcasing its dedication to safety. Skoda Slavia safety features encompass:

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

Skoda Kushaq – 5-star GNCAP Rating

In the mid-size SUV category, the Skoda Kushaq stands out as a preferred option for safety-oriented buyers. It has achieved a 5-star GNCAP rating, with an admirable score of 29. 64 and 42 in the adult and child occupant protection categories respectively. Additionally, its stylish and bold appearance makes it an ideal choice for any SUV lover. Skoda Kushaq safety features incorporate:

• Six airbags
• Electronic Stability Program
• TPMS
• Central Locking
• Hill Assist
• Reverse Camera
• Auto-Dimming Rear-view Mirror
• ISOFIX child seat mounts.

Conclusion

• India’s safest cars, based on Global NCAP ratings, include Tata Harrier, Tata Safari, Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and Hyundai Verna, each earning 5-star ratings. These vehicles provide top-notch safety features such as six airbags, ESP, ABS, and hill assist. While advanced safety features help protect occupants, comprehensive car insurance offers protection against financial losses from accidents, theft, or natural disasters. Selecting a safe vehicle along with a dependable insurance plan guarantees comprehensive protection.

Also Read: What is Global NCAP Safety Rating?

FAQs

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

Global NCAP testing assesses the crashworthiness of vehicles available in India, shaping consumer awareness and the priorities of manufacturers. Higher safety ratings motivate automakers to improve structural integrity and safety features, resulting in safer cars on Indian roads.

2. What key safety features should one consider when choosing a car?

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

3. What is the significance of airbags and ABS in car safety ratings?

Airbags diminish impact forces during crashes, lowering the risk of serious injuries, while ABS prevents wheel lock-up, enhancing control during abrupt braking. Both greatly improve crash safety, leading to enhanced NCAP ratings.

4. Are there any cars manufactured in India that have achieved a 5-star safety rating?

Yes, numerous Indian-manufactured vehicles have attained a 5-star Global NCAP rating, including Tata Safari, Tata Harrier, Tata Nexon, Tata Punch, Mahindra XUV700, and Mahindra Scorpio-N, demonstrating enhanced safety standards in the Indian automotive sector.

5. Which car holds the title of the safest vehicle?

The Tata Harrier is presently acknowledged as the safest car in India, earning a 5-star rating in Global NCAP’s adult occupant protection category.