Top 10 Safest Cars In India

When you buy a car, it is important to prioritize vehicle safety above everything else. This is especially true in India where fatal road accidents make the headlines almost every day. As per statistics, in 2021, approximately 1,51000 road accidents led to the loss of over 1,50000 lives which underlines the need for every car owner to be strict about the safety factor of the cars they buy. This article explains the various safety factors that one must consider when buying a car and how car insurance is important along the process. You will also get to go through a list of the top 10 safest cars in India.

Criteria for Determining Car Safety

Explanation of Global NCAP Ratings

The Global New Car Assessment Programme worldwide safety standard protocol that applies to all the cars manufactured across the world. In order to get a NCAP rating, cars undergo rigorous crash tests before they are launched in the market. The higher the rating, the safer the car. Bharat NCAP is the Indian counterpart of this rating. As per the regulations of the Bharat NCAP, all vehicles sold in India must undergo detailed safety testing which also includes crash tests. These evaluations are crucial in supporting comprehensive car insurance and publishing the star ratings which range from One to Five stars. Here are a few safety features that every potential car owner should consider and ensure that their car have, before deciding on a model and vendor. 

Key safety features to consider:

1. Airbags 

Safety features like airbags can reduce the risk of accidents and severe injuries. As of January 2022, the government of India has made it mandatory for every car being sold in India to have dual front airbags. This is an important safety feature that everyone should be aware of and check for while buying a new car. Some of the safest cars in India come with at least four airbags - two in front and two in the back.

1. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) 

ABS can reduce the risk of accidents and severe injuries. For a car to be termed the safest car in India, this feature is non-negotiable.

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Electronic stability control is a technology that helps stabilize the car whenever the driver loses control of the steering wheel. This technology automatically applies brakes on the respective wheels of the car to steer it back into the direction where the driver intended to go, thus preventing fatal accidents from happening. 

• ISOFIX child seat mounts 

ISOFIX mounts are important especially if you are planning to expand your family or already have toddlers who need adult supervision while driving. Although the use of child seat is not mandated by Indian traffic laws, it is always better to be safe than sorry. With the growing amount of parents opting to seat their children in car seats, it is important to ensure that your future car is equipped with the necessary ISOFIX mounts. The main aim of International Standard Organization FIX points is to establish standardized mounting points for infant, baby and toddler car seats within the car.

Here are the top 10 cars in India that have received the Global NCAP ratings and are deemed to be some of the safest in India.

Top 10 Safest Cars in India

The following list combines information from multiple sources to provide an overview of cars known for their safety features and ratings.

Tata Harrier/Tata Safari

Global NCAP Rating: 5 Star (Bharat NCAP).

Adult Occupant Protection: Five-star rating.

Child Occupant Protection: Five-star rating.

Key Safety Features: 

1. Both models come with 7 airbags (Driver, Front Passenger, 2 Curtain, Driver Knee, Driver Side, Front Passenger Side), Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, High-beam Assist.
2. Seat Belt Warning, Child Lock, Anchor Points for Child Seat, Overspeed Warning, Speed Sensing Door Lock, Anti-theft Engine immobilizer, Middle rear three-point seatbelt, Flashing Emergency Brake Light, Lane Departure Warning, Central Locking, and a Puncture Repair Kit. 
3. They also feature ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) with functionalities such as rear collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot detection, lane departure warning, and more. 
4. Additional ADAS features include adaptive steering assist with lane centering and lane-keeping assist. 
5. The Harrier also has an Electronic Stability Program with 17 key functionalities like Driver Doze-Off alert and After Impact Braking.

Overview: The Tata Harrier and Safari are SUVs known for their safety features and robust build6. Both models share similar safety equipment, including ADAS and comprehensive airbag systems. The Harrier is derived from Land Rover's D8 platform

Tata Nexon

Global NCAP Rating: 5/5 GNCAP rating.

Adult Occupant Protection: The Nexon scored 32.2 in adult occupant protection. It achieved an impressive 16.06 points out of 17 in Adult Occupant Protection.

Child Occupant Protection: The Nexon scored 44.5 in child occupant protection. It earned a commendable score of 25 out of 49 in the Child Occupant Protection category.

Key Safety Features: 

1. The Nexon comes standard with 6 airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Additional safety features include a tyre pressure monitor, a 360-degree camera, and a blind-view monitor. 
2. The top-end model includes 6 airbags (Driver, Front Passenger, 2 Curtain, Driver Side, Front Passenger Side), seat belt warning, child lock, anchor points for child seats, overspeed warning, speed-sensing door lock, an anti-theft engine immobilizer, middle rear three-point seatbelt, and central locking. 
3. It also features ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution).

Overview: The Tata Nexon is known for its safety and has achieved high Global NCAP scores. It was the first model to achieve a five-star SaferCarsForIndia rating in 2018. In 2023, the new Nexon has been updated with additional safety equipment. The Nexon has a high-strength steel structure to absorb impact energy and protect passengers during collisions.

Volkswagen Virtus

Global NCAP Rating: Five stars.

Adult Occupant Protection: 5 Stars

Child Occupant Protection: 5 stars

Key Safety Features:

1.  ISOFIX (Child-Seat Mount), 
2. Overspeed Warning, 
3. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), 
4. EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), 
5. EBA (Electronic Brake Assist), 
6. ESP (Electronic Stability Program), 
7. ASR / Traction Control, 
8. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, 
9. Lane Departure Warning, 
10. Seat Belt Warning, Rear Middle Three Point seatbelt, Rear Middle Head Rest, Hill Assist, Hill Descent Control, Engine Immobiliser, Central Locking, Child Safety Lock, Door Ajar Warning, Lane Watch Camera/ Side Mirror Camera, and Auto-Dimming Rear-View Mirror.

Skoda Slavia

Global NCAP Rating: Five stars.

Adult Occupant Protection: 5 Stars

Child Occupant Protection: 5 stars

Key Safety Features:

Skoda Slavia:

1.  Includes ISOFIX (Child-Seat Mount), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), 
2. EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), 
3. ESP (Electronic Stability Program), 
4. ASR / Traction Control, 
5. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, 
6. Emergency Brake Light Flashing, 
7. Seat Belt Warning, Rear Middle Three Point seatbelt, Rear Middle Head Rest, Engine Immobiliser, Central Locking, Speed Sensing Door Lock, Child Safety Lock, and Fog Lights.

Mahindra Scorpio N

Global NCAP Rating: 5 stars for adult occupant protection and 3 stars for child occupant protection.

Adult Occupant Protection: 29.25 out of a potential 34 points. Scored 44% in adult occupant protection in the Australasian NCAP crash test.

Child Occupant Protection: 28.93 out of 49 points. Scored 80% in child occupant protection in the Australasian NCAP crash test.

Key Safety Features: 

1. The top-end model includes 6 airbags (Driver, Front Passenger, 2 Curtain, Driver Side, Front Passenger Side), ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Hill Hold and Descent Control, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), 
2. Seat Belt Warning, Child Lock, Anchor Points for Child Seat, Overspeed Warning, Speed Sensing Door Lock, Anti-theft Engine immobilizer, 
3. Middle rear three-point seatbelt, Flashing Emergency Brake Light, and Central Locking. 
4. Also equipped with ISOFIX anchors.

Overview: 

The Mahindra Scorpio N is known for its safety features and rugged build. It has a 5-star rating for adult occupant protection from Global NCAP. However, it received a zero-star safety rating in the Australasian NCAP crash test due to the absence of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), which is a crucial requirement under that program. The Scorpio N's safety achievements reflect Mahindra’s commitment to bringing you home safely.

Hyundai Verna

Global NCAP Rating: 5 stars.

Adult Occupant Protection: The Verna scored 28.18 out of 34 for adult occupant protection.

Child Occupant Protection: The Verna scored 42 out of 49 for child occupant protection.

Price Range: Not specified in the search results.

Key Safety Features: The Hyundai Verna includes 6 airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard.

Overview: 

1. The Hyundai Verna has achieved a five-star Global NCAP rating for both adult and child occupant safety.
2.  The Global NCAP crash test protocols assess frontal and side impact protection, as well as ESC. 

Tata Punch

Global NCAP Rating: 5-star

Adult Occupant Protection: Scored an impressive 16.49 out of 17 in adult occupant protection in the event of a crash. Achieved 16.45 out of 17 for adult protection.

Child Occupant Protection: The Tata Punch has a safety rating of 4-star in child occupant protection1. Scored 40.89 out of 49 for child safety.

Key Safety Features: 

1. The Tata Punch includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), central locking, child safety locks, airbags, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and seat belt warning. 
2. Some models also feature ASR / Traction Control, Auto-Dimming Rear-View Mirror, Door Ajar Warning, EBA (Electronic Brake Assist), Engine Immobiliser, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and reverse camera. 
3. The Tata Punch EV comes standard with 6 airbags, 
4. Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a 360-degree camera, 
5. Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) and auto hold, and a Blind Spot View Monitor.

Overview: 

The Tata Punch is a compact SUV known for its robust build quality and top-of-the-line safety features. It has a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP, making it one of the safest vehicles in its segment. It offers sufficient protection for the head and neck area for both the driver and passenger, while the chest region and knees are well-protected. The car's robust body offers a stable and durable frame.

Mahindra XUV300

Global NCAP Rating: 5-star

Adult Occupant Protection: 5-star. 

Child Occupant Protection: 4-star. This is a commendable score that indicates strong safety measures for children, making it a family-friendly vehicle.

Key Safety Features: 

The Mahindra XUV300 has a comprehensive suite of safety features. These include 

1. Upto Seven airbags (driver, front passenger, side airbags, curtain airbags, and a knee airbag for the driver). 
2. It also has ABS with EBD, cornering brake control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. 
3. The XUV300 also features Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which enhances vehicle control, particularly in slippery conditions. 
4. Hill Start Assist prevents the vehicle from rolling back on inclines.

Overview: The Mahindra XUV300 is a compact yet powerful SUV known for its robust build and advanced safety features. It has earned accolades for its high safety ratings, making it one of the most secure options in its segment. The XUV300 is built on a high-strength steel frame that absorbs impact energy during a collision, protecting the occupants by minimising the transfer of force. It offers excellent safety for both adult and child occupants, making it a family-friendly vehicle. The XUV300 ensures excellent safety for the driver and front passenger during a collision.

Tata Altroz

Global NCAP Rating: 5 stars for adult protection and 4 stars for child protection.

Adult Occupant Protection: The car scored 16.13 points out of 17 in adult occupant protection which means 5 stars.  

Child Occupant Protection: The safety rating for child occupants is 4 stars, with 29 points out of . 

Key Safety Features: 

1. The Tata Altroz is equipped with a range of safety features such as a traction control system, height-adjustable seatbelts, airbags, ABS, Engine Immobiliser. 
2. Child Safety Lock, Key Lock Protection, ISOFIX, Passenger Airbags, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Central Locking, and Power Door Lock.

Overview: 

The Tata Altroz is a 5-seater hatchback known for its spacious cabin and stylish exterior. It has a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, making it one of the safest choices in its segment. The Altroz is available with CNG, petrol, and diesel engine options.

Mahindra XUV700

Global NCAP Rating: 5 stars for adult occupant protection and 4 stars for child occupant protection.

Adult Occupant Protection: Scored 16.03 out of 17. 

Child Occupant Protection: Scored 41.66 out of 49. The SUV’s design ensures that child seats can be properly installed using ISOFIX anchors, providing added security for younger passengers.

Key Safety Features: 

1. The XUV700 offers safety features such as 7 airbags, ABS, Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
2. ISOFIX anchors for child seats, and seat belt reminders. 
3. Higher-end models include Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, High-beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning, a 360-degree camera, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

Overview: The Mahindra XUV700 has made a significant impact with its top safety scores. It has a 5-star rating for adult occupant protection and a 4-star rating for child occupant protection from Global NCAP, which places the XUV700 among the best in terms of safety for Indian-made vehicles. The XUV700 combines strong performance, advanced tech, and a premium feel, making it a top contender for buyers seeking an advanced, powerful, and family-friendly SUV.

Note: As of now, there is no definitive list of the "Top 10 Safest Cars in India" based on Bharat NCAP ratings, however, all the cars being sold in the Indian market are given safety ratings as per the global NCAP. 

Importance of Car Insurance in Ensuring Safety

In order to drive a car in India, car insurance is mandatory. If you are not able to invest in a comprehensive policy, it is mandatory to at least own a car insurance offering a third-party liability coverage. However, all drivers must possess car insurance. When you own car insurance, the financial stress of repairing your vehicle in the event of an accident or certain natural calamity falls on your insurer. In addition to providing the financial safety, a car insurance reflects your reliability as a car owner and responsibility towards your family. 

Conclusion

With the growing awareness and emphasis on vehicle safety, Indian car buyers are increasingly prioritizing safety ratings. Government initiatives such as Bharat NCAP are set to transform the future of car safety in India, ensuring that cars on Indian roads are safer and smarter. When shopping for a car, it’s crucial to check safety ratings, as your life is worth it.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Which car is the safest in India as per Global NCAP?

Tata Motors and Mahindra lead with the most cars on India's safest cars list. Seven cars in India earned a 5-star rating for adult and child occupant safety.

What are the most important safety features to look for in a car?

Important safety features include airbags, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX mounts.