When it comes to choosing a family car in India, safety should be your top priority. In 2025, several cars have earned a perfect 5-star rating in the Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP crash tests, making them some of the safest vehicles on Indian roads. With rising concerns about road safety, more buyers are now looking for models that combine strong build quality, excellent crash protection, and modern safety features.
Whether you’re buying your first car or upgrading to a safer ride for your family, here’s a list of the safest cars in India that have scored 5 stars in recent crash tests.
Tata Nexon (5-Star Bharat NCAP)
The Tata Nexon continues to be one of the most affordable 5-star rated SUVs in India. In 2025, the facelifted version comes with advanced ADAS features, improved structure, and robust safety systems that make it an ideal choice for small families. Its high ground clearance and sturdy body structure also help on rough Indian roads.
Mahindra XUV300 (5-Star Global NCAP)
The Mahindra XUV300 remains a top pick in the compact SUV segment, especially for buyers prioritizing safety. It scored high marks for both adult and child occupant protection in the Global NCAP tests. The car also comes with features like all 4 disc brakes, ESP, and up to 6 airbags in higher trims.
Volkswagen Virtus (5-Star Global NCAP)
Volkswagen’s Virtus sedan earned a strong 5-star rating in crash tests, offering superb German build quality and a rigid platform. It’s packed with safety tech like multi-collision brakes, ESC, TPMS, and a strong body shell. It’s a great sedan choice for families looking for a safer and more premium driving experience.
Skoda Slavia (5-Star Global NCAP)
The Skoda Slavia shares its platform with the Virtus and matches its safety credentials. It provides strong side and frontal impact protection, along with six airbags and ISOFIX child-seat mounts. Slavia is a stylish, family-friendly sedan that doesn’t compromise on safety or comfort.
Tata Harrier (5-Star Bharat NCAP)
The new-generation Tata Harrier has been tested under Bharat NCAP and achieved a 5-star rating, thanks to its OmegaArc platform and robust safety suite. This full-size SUV now comes with ADAS Level 2 features, electronic stability control, 6 airbags as standard, and a more rigid structure—making it perfect for large Indian families.
Safety Comparison Table
| Model | NCAP Rating | Airbags | Safety Features | Price (₹, Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Nexon | 5-Star BNCAP | 6 | ESC, Hill Hold, Roll-over Mitigation, ISOFIX | ₹8 – ₹14.5 lakh |
| Mahindra XUV300 | 5-Star GNCAP | 6 | All-disc brakes, ESP, ISOFIX, TPMS | ₹9 – ₹14 lakh |
| Volkswagen Virtus | 5-Star GNCAP | 6 | ESC, Multi-Collision Braking, Hill Start Assist | ₹11 – ₹18 lakh |
| Skoda Slavia | 5-Star GNCAP | 6 | Side & Front Airbags, ESC, TPMS, ISOFIX | ₹11 – ₹18 lakh |
| Tata Harrier | 5-Star BNCAP | 6 | ADAS L2, ESC, Hill Descent Control, 360 Cam | ₹15 – ₹25 lakh |
India is finally moving toward a safety-first car market, and 2025 is proof of that progress. With Bharat NCAP now in action, carmakers are taking vehicle safety seriously. The cars listed above—Tata Nexon, XUV300, Virtus, Slavia, and Harrier—are the best picks for families looking for peace of mind on the road. With features like 6 airbags, ESC, and crash-tested platforms, they offer unmatched protection for the price.
If safety is a top concern for your next car purchase, these models should definitely be on your shortlist.
FAQ’s:
Which car has the highest NCAP safety rating in India 2025?
All the cars listed—like Tata Nexon, Harrier, and Virtus—have received 5-star safety ratings in either Bharat or Global NCAP.
Is the Tata Nexon still safe in 2025?
Yes, the 2025 Nexon facelift has passed Bharat NCAP crash tests with a full 5-star rating and offers enhanced safety features.
Which is the safest sedan in India in 2025?
The Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia are both top-rated 5-star sedans under Global NCAP.
Are 5-star NCAP cars expensive?
Not always. Cars like the Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV300 offer top safety ratings starting under ₹10 lakh.
