15 Best NCAP Rating Cars in India 2025

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 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.

1. Tata Punch | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: tata motors

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.

Despite its compact size, the Punch’s reinforced structure and safety package impressed in crash tests. Standard features, such as dual airbags, ABS, and ISOFIX, ensure strong protection, making it a top choice for safety-conscious buyers in the entry-level SUV space.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹5.50 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

2. Nissan Magnite | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: nissan.in

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 five-star safety rating and offers a well-balanced ride and handling. However, NCAP notes that Magnite could enhance its child occupant safety by incorporating certain features.

It is one of the most affordable cars to get a decent NCAP score. With dual airbags, ABS with EBD and a reinforced passenger cell, Magnite has great protection levels for its price, so it’s a safe option in the sub-compact SUV space.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹5.62 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

3. Tata Altroz | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Source: tata.com

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.

One of the first hatchbacks in India to achieve a 5-star Global NCAP rating, the Altroz has set the benchmark for safety in its segment. With a solid platform, dual airbags, and ABS as standard, the Altroz offers crash protection that rivals many larger cars. Even today, it’s one of the safest hatchbacks.

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹6.30 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

4. Mahindra XUV 3XO | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: auto.mahindra

Replacing the XUV300, the Mahindra XUV 3XO has carried forward the legacy of one of India’s safest compact SUVs. Built on a strong platform with improved crash absorption zones, it has good NCAP ratings for adult and child safety.

It comes with multiple airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, electronic stability control and all-wheel disc brakes, so overall safety is taken care of. The best part is that these features are available across most trims, so safety doesn’t have to break the bank.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹7.28 lakh
• Mileage: 18.2 kmpl for petrol, 20.6 kmpl for diesel
• Engine displacement: 1197 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: ABS, Brake Assist, Central Locking, Child Safety Locks, 6 Airbags, Day & Night Rear View Mirror, EBD, Seat Belt Warning, Traction Control, TPMS, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, etc.
• Seating capacity: 5

5. Tata Nexon | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Source: cars.tatamotors.com

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.

It’s a compact SUV that strikes a balance between performance and safety, featuring a reinforced structure and advanced electronic safety features. Nexon is a strong recommendation for those who value top-rated crash safety in an everyday SUV.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹7.32 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

5. Skoda Slavia | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: skoda

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.

Slavia mirrors the safety engineering of Virtus since both share the same MQB-A0-IN platform. With a 5-star NCAP rating, it ensures strong occupant protection and stability in the event of a crash. Equipped with side-impact airbags, ESC, and a well-calibrated braking system, it gives drivers confidence who prioritise safety alongside practicality.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹10 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

7. Škoda Kushaq | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: skoda

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.

Among compact SUVs, the Škoda Kushaq has been the most impressive safety performer. With six airbags, traction control, and a high-strength steel frame, the Kushaq demonstrates how modern engineering and crash safety work in tandem.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹10.61 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

8. Hyundai Verna | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: hyundai

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.

It features a solid platform and comes equipped with standard safety features, including six airbags, all-wheel disc brakes, and electronic stability control. Hyundai’s focus on both crash and preventive safety has made the Verna one of the safest sedans in India today.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹10.69 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 

9. Volkswagen Virtus | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: volkswagen

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.

Volkswagen is known for its strong safety engineering, and the Virtus sedan is no exception. It scores high in Bharat NCAP and Global NCAP tests, features a rigid body shell, and comes equipped with six airbags, ESC, and ISOFIX mounts. Virtus combines crash test strength with driver-focused build quality, ensuring buyers receive both performance and safety.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹11.16 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

10. Volkswagen Taigun | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: volkswagen

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.

Like the Kushaq, the Taigun is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform and carries the same high safety credentials, making it one of the safest SUVs in its class. Along with structural safety, Taigun also features electronic aids such as hill-hold, ESC, and multiple airbags to strengthen its safety package further.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹11.39 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

11. Mahindra Thar Roxx | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: auto.mahindra

The Mahindra Thar Roxx is a lifestyle SUV but doesn’t compromise on safety. Built on a strengthened ladder frame chassis, it boasts high torsional rigidity, enhancing its crash performance.

What makes the Roxx stand out is that it combines its off-road DNA with occupant safety. The reinforced structure and high ground clearance not only aid in off-road driving but also better absorb crash impacts. For buyers looking for an adventurous SUV that doesn’t compromise on safety standards, the Thar Roxx makes a strong case.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹12.25 lakh
• Mileage: 12.4 kmpl for petrol, 15.2 kmpl for diesel
• Engine displacement: 2184 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: ABS, Brake Assist, Central Locking, Child Safety Locks, 6 Airbags, Day & Night Rear View Mirror, EBD, Seat Belt Warning, Traction Control, TPMS, Engine Immobilizer, ESC, Anti-Pinch Power Windows, Speed Alert, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts etc.
• Seating capacity: 5

12. Mahindra Scorpio N | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: auto.mahindra

The Mahindra XUV400 EV is an electric SUV that combines eco-friendly performance with modern features. Its impressive range and quick charging capabilities make it a practical choice for urban commuters.​

The Scorpio N has a significantly improved safety profile compared to the old Scorpio. Built on a stronger body-on-frame chassis, it got a high Bharat NCAP rating in frontal and side crash tests. Along with its structural integrity, it features modern safety features, including six airbags and ESC, making it both rugged and safe.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹13.20 lakh
• Mileage: 375 - 456 km range
• Engine displacement: Electric Motor
• Body type: SUV
• Safety features: Features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and more.
• Seating capacity: 5​

13. Mahindra XUV700 | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

Source: auto-mahindra.com

The GNCAP awarded 16.03 out of 17 points, or 4 stars, to the 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.

The Mahindra XUV700 is one of the safest large SUVs in India, boasting a 5-star NCAP rating. Built on a modern monocoque platform, it has excellent crash absorption and ADAS features that prevent accidents from happening in the first place. XUV700’s safety score, combined with its size and technology, makes it a segment leader in the premium SUV category.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹13.66 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

So these are some 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.

14. Tata Harrier | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: tatamotors

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.

It boasts proven structural integrity and comes equipped with safety essentials, including electronic stability control, hill-hold, and multiple airbags. Harrier’s body shell has shown impressive stability in crash tests, so it’s a strong performer in NCAP charts.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹14 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

15. Tata Safari | Global NCAP Rating 5 Stars

source: tata motors

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.

Built on the OmegaArc platform, derived from Land Rover’s architecture, it features a solid structure that earns a high NCAP rating. With six airbags, ESP, and advanced driver assistance features, the Safari is designed with well-engineered crash protection.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom pricing: Starting ₹14.66lakh
• 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

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.

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.