Over the years, the Indian automobile industry has undergone a shift - a car’s safety is now a critical deciding factor for its purchase. After all, the country’s roads record a considerable number of mishaps every year, making safety a massive concern for motorists.

Therefore, it is about time that you too prioritise your safety behind the wheel and those around you.

When buying a car in India, securing car insurance is also crucial as it is mandatory by the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. It provides financial protection against accidents, theft, and damages, safeguarding your investment. 

Having car insurance saves you from hefty traffic fines, licence suspension, and even legal trouble.

Today, we present to you a compiled list of the top 21 NCAP-rated cars in India so that you stay out of harm’s way when you hit the road.

Global New Car Assessment Program, or GNCAP, is a regulatory body that promotes universal adoption of the UN’s motor vehicle and safety standards. It acts as a platform for new car assessment programs worldwide with an aim to reduce road fatalities and improve pedestrian protection. 

Each car under the GNCAP is given a rating based on a 5-star scale.

Now that you are familiar with how NCAP ratings work let’s delve into the top NCAP-rated cars in India that make Indian roads more secure for motorists and pedestrians alike. 

Here, take a look!

Note: The prices of cars in this list reveal their ex-showroom cost in Delhi. They are subject to vary from one city to another.

1. Tata Safari | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Tata Motor’s latest facelifted model, Tata Safari, ranks amongst the highest Global NCAP-rated cars in India. It scored 33.05 out of 34 for adult safety and 45 out of 49 for child safety, making the model the safest car to date.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹15.49 lakh
• Mileage: 14.5 to 16.3 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 1956 cc 
  
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: Electronic stability control (ESC), hill assist, a 360-degree camera, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), ISOFIX child seat mounts, hill descent control, impact sensing, auto door unlock.
• Seating capacity: 7

2. Tata Harrier | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Tata Motor’s another safest model to join the list of best Global NCAP-rated cars is the new Tata Harrier. With a crash test score of 33.05 out of 34 for adult safety and 45 out of 49 for child safety categories, it achieves a 5-star rating.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹14.99 lakh
• Mileage: 16.8 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 1956 cc
  
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: Anti-lock braking system, central locking, power door locks, child safety locks, electronic brakeforce distribution, seat belt warning, door ajar warning and tyre pressure monitor, rear camera, anti-theft device, anti-pinch power windows, speed alert, speed sensing auto door lock and knee airbags, ISOFIX child seat mounts, hill assist, hill descent control, impact sensing, auto door unlock.
• Seating capacity: 5

3. Volkswagen Virtus | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

A renowned German name in the Indian automobile market, Volkswagen Virtus achieved 5-star ratings for its sturdy safety features for adult and child safety. The car scored 29.71 out of 34 in the adult occupant category and 42 out of 45 in the child occupant category.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹10.89 lakh
  
• Mileage: 18.12 - 20.8 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 999 cc - 1498 cc
  
• Body type: Sedan
• Safety features: Electronic stability control (ESC), advanced features like ISOFIX child seat mounts, hill hold assist, and speed sensing auto door lock.
  
• Seating capacity: 5

4. Škoda Slavia | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Škoda Slavia, a popular mid-sized sedan model, ranked 5-star in the Global NCAP safety test in both child and adult occupancy categories. It earned 29.71 points out of 34 in the adult occupant category and 42 points out of 45 in child safety.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹10.69 lakh
• Mileage: 18.07 - 19.47 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 1498 cc
• Body type: Sedan
• Safety features: 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, hill-hold assist, speed sensing auto door lock, etc.
• Seating capacity: 5

5. Škoda Kushaq | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Škoda offers yet another 5-star Global NCAP-rated car – the Škoda Kushaq. It gained an easy entry into the top list of best NCAP-rating cars in India with a score of 29.64 in the adult occupant safety and 42 in the child occupant safety category.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹10.89 lakh
• Mileage: 14.5 to 16.3 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 1498 cc 
  
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: Dual front airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), ABS with EBD, seatbelt reminder, tyre pressure monitor, ISOFIX child seat mounts, a rear-view camera, etc. 
• Seating capacity: 5

6. Volkswagen Taigun | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Volkswagen again stands out in terms of safety aspects with its Taigun segment. The model earned a Global NCAP rating of 29.64 out of 34 for its adult occupancy and 42 out of 49 for child occupancy.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹10.89 lakh
  
• Mileage: 17.88 - 20.08 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 999 cc - 1498 cc
  
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: 6 airbags, standard seatbelt reminders for all occupants, electronic stability control (ESC), TPMS, and a rear-view camera, among others.
  
• Seating capacity: 5

7. Hyundai Verna | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Another 5-starrer to join our list of best NCAP-rating cars in India, the Hyundai Verna, is one of the safest cars in the market at the moment.

It scored 29.64 out of 34 for adult safety in its GNCAP crash test result. Further, the car received a score of 42 out of 49 in terms of child safety, thus earning 5 stars in both categories.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹11.00 lakh
• Mileage: 20.6 kmpl
  
• Engine displacement: 1482 cc 
• Body type: Sedan
  
• Safety features: ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and ABS with EBD, ESC, front parking sensors, all-wheel disc brakes, TPMS, advanced ADAS, forward-collision warning, blind-spot alert, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
• Seating capacity: 5 

8. Mahindra XUV700 | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

The GNCAP awarded 16.03 out of 17 points, or 4 stars, to Mahindra XUV700 in the category of adult occupancy. On the other hand, this car scored 41.66 out of 49 for its child occupant safety. 

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting₹13.9 lakh 
• Mileage: 17.19 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 2198 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: Micro hybrid technology, personalised safety alerts, 7 airbags, driver drowsiness detection, continuous digital video recording, electronic park brake, speed sensing auto door lock.
• Seating capacity: 5,7

9. Tata Punch | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Tata Motor’s subcompact SUV, the Tata Punch, was awarded a Global NCAP rating of 5 stars in its crash test result. This car scored 16.45 out of 17 in terms of adult occupancy, thereby earning 5 stars in this category. It received 4 stars for child occupant protection.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹6.12 lakh
  
• Mileage: 20.09 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 1199 cc
  
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear defoggers, rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and ISOFIX anchors.
  
• Seating capacity: 5

10. Mahindra Scorpio N | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Mahindra Scorpio N marks itself as one of the safest SUVs in India, with an overall GNCAP rating of 5 stars. In the category of adult occupant protection, this automobile received a high score of 29.25 points out of 34. On the other hand, it is rated 3 stars for its child occupant protection.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹13.85 lakh
  
• Mileage: 15 kmpl for petrol, 16.5 kmpl for diesel
  
• Engine displacement: 2198 cc
  
• Body type: SUV
  
• Safety features: 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, hill-assist control, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), electronic stability control (ESC), etc. 
  
• Seating capacity: 6,7 

11. Tata Altroz | Global NCAP Rating 4 Stars

A premium hatchback, Tata Altroz is next on our list of the top NCAP-rated cars in India. Alongside its unique design and visual aesthetics, Tata Altroz is also equipped with numerous best-in-class features.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹6.64 lakh
  
• Mileage: 25.11 kmpl
  
• Engine displacement: 1399 cc
  
• Body type: Hatchback
  
• Safety features: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, voice alerts, fog lamps, reverse parking camera, corner stability control, etc.
  
• Seating capacity: 5 

12. Tata Nexon | Global NCAP Rating 4 Stars

Tata Nexon distinguishes itself as the first Indian-produced car that received the coveted 5-star rating from GNCAP. The car’s crash-tested model scored 16.6 out of 17 in the category of adult occupancy.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹7.99 lakh
• Mileage: 21.5 kmpl
  
• Engine displacement: 1499 cc
• Body type: SUV
  
• Safety features: Brake disc wiping, emergency brake assist, hill-hold assist, ESP, ABS with EBD, electronic traction control, dual front airbags, ISOFIX Mounts, etc.
• Seating capacity: 5 

13. Toyota Urban Cruiser | Global NCAP Rating 4 Stars

It achieved a 4-star rating from Global NCAP for adult occupant safety, scoring 13.52 out of 17 points in this category. For child occupant protection, it received a 3-star rating, earning 36.38 out of 49 points. The vehicle’s body shell was deemed stable by Global NCAP during crash tests.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹7.73 lakh
• Mileage: 22.79 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 998 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: Electronic Stability Program (ESP), hill hold assist, dual front airbags, reverse parking sensors (with infographic display), seat belt reminder (driver + co driver) - Lamp & Buzzer, seat belt reminder (rear), ISOFIX child seat restraint system, inside rear view mirror (day/night), etc.
• Seating capacity: 5

14. Mahindra Thar | Global NCAP Rating 4 Stars

The Mahindra Thar received a 4-star rating from NCAP India in the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) category, scoring 12.52 out of 17 points. It also achieved a 4-star rating in the Child Occupant Protection (COP) category, with a score of 41.11 out of 49 points. Thar provided good chest protection for both passengers and the driver.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹11.35 lakh
• Mileage: 15.2 kmpl for petrol, 13 kmpl for diesel
• Engine displacement: 1497 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: ESP with roll-over mitigation, hill hold & hill descent control, panic braking signal, ABS with EBD & Brake Assist, speed sensing front door locks, dual airbags, seat belt reminder, snow chain provision for tyres, ISOFIX child seat mounts on rear seats, vehicle over-speed warning, passenger airbag deactivation switch, roll cage, etc.
• Seating capacity: 4
  

15. Tata Tigor | Global NCAP Rating 4 Stars

The Tigor's distinctive LED DRLs, combined with the precise illumination of its automatic headlamps, guarantee clear vision and safety on every drive while making a stylish impression. Its high-strength steel structure effectively absorbs impact energy, safeguarding the passenger. The TATA Tigor boasts a 4-star safety rating in the adult protection category.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹6.29 lakh
• Mileage: 19 kmpl to 20 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 1199 cc
• Body type: Sedan
• Safety features: Interior rearview mirror, driver and co-driver airbags, reverse parking camera and sensors, speed-dependent auto door locks, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), rear defogger, corner stability control, speed alert, etc.
• Seating capacity: 5

16. Tata Tiago | Global NCAP Rating 4 Stars

The Tiago hatchback is a lively, secure, and sporty car that offers spirited performance, advanced infotainment, and ensures complete safety for enjoyable rides. It has achieved a 4-star safety rating in the Global NCAP crash test for adult occupant protection and a 3-star rating for child occupant safety.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹5.64 lakh
• Mileage: 19 kmpl to 28 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 1199 cc
• Body type: Hatchback
• Safety features: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD,  rear parking sensors, cornering stability control, immobiliser, speed alert, interior rearview mirror, etc.
• Seating capacity: 5

17. Maruti Suzuki Brezza | Global NCAP Rating 4 Stars

The 2024 Maruti Brezza has earned a 4-star safety rating and is recognized as one of the safest Maruti cars in India by Global NCAP crash tests. It performed well in the adult protection category, but the results for child protection were marginal.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹8.34 lakh
• Mileage: 17.38 kmpl to 25.51 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 1462 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: 6 Airbags, ESP with hill hold assist, an improved TECT platform, ABS with EBD and brake assist, etc. 
• Seating capacity: 5

18. Renault Kiger | Global NCAP Rating 4 Stars

It earned a 4-star rating for adult occupant protection in the Global NCAP crash test. For child occupant safety, the Kiger received a 2-star rating due to limited child safety features. It provided good protection for the driver and passenger's head and neck but offered marginal protection for the chest and knees. The bodyshell was rated stable.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹5.99 lakh
• Mileage: 18.2 kmpl to 19.52 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 999 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: 4 airbags, rearview camera, hill start assist, electronic stability program, traction control system, tyre pressure monitoring system, reverse parking sensors, pedestrian protection, rear door child lock, etc.
• Seating capacity: 5

19. Nissan Magnite | Global NCAP Rating 4 Stars

The Nissan Magnite, a cost-effective SUV, comes with options for both automatic and manual transmissions, a fuel-efficient engine, and ample space for five passengers. It also boasts a four-star safety rating and offers a well-balanced ride and handling. However, NCAP notes that the Magnite could enhance its child occupant safety by incorporating certain features.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹5.99 lakh
• Mileage: 19.35 kmpl to 20 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 999 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: Vehicle dynamics control, traction control system, ABS with EBD, dual airbags, hydraulic brake assist, rear defogger, etc.
• Seating capacity: 5

20. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga | Global NCAP Rating 3 Stars

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga features the robust and tested Heartect Platform, along with quad airbags, designed to ensure comprehensive safety and peace of mind for all passengers. The vehicle has received a 3-star NCAP rating for both adult and child occupant protection.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹8.69 lakh
• Mileage: 20.51 kmpl to 26.11 kmpl
• Engine displacement: 1462 cc
• Body type: MUV
• Safety features: ABS with EBD and brake assist, dual front airbags, front seat belts with pre-tensioner & force limiters, high-speed alert system, speed sensitive auto door lock, rear parking sensors and cameras, front fog lamps, etc. 
• Seating capacity: 7

So these are few of the car models with NCAP ratings in India.

Also, it is advisable to protect your car with a third-party car insurance policy, as it is mandated by law. It will cover any damage or losses your vehicle could cause to a third-party person or property in any unforeseen mishap.

The Global NCAP test, also known as a front offset crash test, involves the concerned vehicle moving at a speed of 64kmph. It forms a 40% overlap with a deformable barrier. 

Therefore, the resulting crash is equivalent to a head-on collision between two vehicles of the same mass moving at 50kmph.

What is Scoring in Global NCAP Crash Tests?

Crash test dummies are placed inside the car before the test. These are fitted with specialised sensors, providing readings during the staged crash.

The scoring is divided into two sections - Adult Occupant Protection and Child Occupant Protection. 

• Adult Occupant Protection scoring depends on 17-point testing.
• Child Occupant Protection scoring depends on 49-point testing.

After considering the scores in both these segments, a car’s final Global NCAP score is presented in star ratings, with 5 stars being the highest rated in safety and 0 stars being the lowest safety-rated car.

The Global NCAP agency buys cars from showrooms for testing. This process is initiated to ensure a baseline for each vehicle when it comes to safety. Apart from this, car manufacturers are also free to send in improved or upgraded models for testing.

The higher a car’s rating, the safer it is. These scores are primarily based on the readings of the crash-test dummies. However, GNCAP awards extra points for the presence of certain additional safety measures.

As a result, these high standards have brought about significant changes in the Indian automobile industry. GNCAP ratings are partly responsible for being the genesis of automotive safety awareness in India. This has led to Research and Development, predominantly to improve a car’s safety features. 

All cars are selected from the assembly line following stringent internal policies of Global NCAP. To know more about this testing process, visit the official GNCAP website.

And, with that, we reach the end of our list of the best NCAP-rating cars in India. So, if you are planning to purchase a car in the near future, make sure that you take into account Indian cars’ NCAP rating alongside other factors, like mileage, aesthetics, price and overall performance.