When it comes to buying a new car in India, safety is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. With rising awareness and stricter safety standards, several carmakers are now offering vehicles that meet global crash safety benchmarks. In 2025, Indian roads are finally seeing cars with world-class safety features and high crash test scores. Here’s a look at the top 5 safest cars in India that have received 5-star Global NCAP ratings, giving you and your family peace of mind every time you hit the road.
Tata Harrier & Safari (2024 Facelift)
The 2024 facelift of the Tata Harrier and Safari duo brought not only a bold new design but also a strong focus on safety. Both SUVs scored a full 5-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests under the new, stricter protocols. Equipped with 6 airbags, ADAS Level 2 features, and a robust Omega Arc platform, the Harrier and Safari are among the safest premium SUVs you can buy in India in 2025.
Mahindra Scorpio-N
The Mahindra Scorpio-N surprised everyone with its 5-star Global NCAP score, proving that even a rugged SUV built for Indian conditions can prioritize safety. It boasts excellent adult and child occupant protection, along with strong body structure integrity. The Scorpio-N comes standard with 6 airbags, ESC, and seatbelt reminders for all rows, making it a perfect blend of power and protection.
Tata Nexon (2023 Facelift)
India’s most popular compact SUV, the Tata Nexon, continues its legacy of safety with the 2023 facelift also earning a 5-star Global NCAP rating. Built on a solid platform with reinforced body structure, the Nexon comes with dual airbags, ESP, traction control, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. It’s a top choice for budget-conscious buyers who want uncompromised safety.
Volkswagen Virtus / Skoda Slavia
The Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia twins have raised the bar for safety in the sedan segment. Both scored a perfect 5-star rating for adult and child occupant protection. Built on the MQB A0-IN platform, these cars offer 6 airbags, a strong crash shell, and impressive structural stability. If you prefer sedans over SUVs, these two should be at the top of your list.
Hyundai Verna (2023)
Hyundai’s all-new Verna 2023 earned its spot among the safest cars in India by securing a 5-star Global NCAP rating. The car comes with 6 airbags as standard, advanced safety tech like lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and a rigid platform that absorbs impact effectively. It’s a modern sedan that proves style and safety can go hand in hand.
Safety & Specs Comparison Table
| Model | GNCAP Rating | Airbags | Safety Tech Features | Segment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Harrier & Safari | ★★★★★ | 6 | ADAS L2, ESP, Hill Hold, Rear Disc Brakes | SUV |
| Mahindra Scorpio-N | ★★★★★ | 6 | ESC, Seatbelt Alerts, Side Impact Tested | SUV |
| Tata Nexon (2023) | ★★★★★ | 6 | ESP, ISOFIX, Roll-over Mitigation | Compact SUV |
| Volkswagen Virtus/Slavia | ★★★★★ | 6 | TPMS, ESC, ISOFIX | Sedan |
| Hyundai Verna (2023) | ★★★★★ | 6 | ADAS, 360° Camera, Strong Shell | Sedan |
With more Indian consumers prioritizing safety, manufacturers are finally stepping up with cars that meet international safety standards. The 5 cars listed above are not just feature-rich, but they also offer real-world protection, backed by independent crash test results. If you’re buying a new car in 2025, make safety your top priority — and these 5-star rated cars should be your first picks.
FAQ’s:
What is Global NCAP, and why is its rating important?
Global NCAP is an independent crash testing body that evaluates car safety. Its ratings help consumers make informed decisions based on real crash test results.
Which is the safest car under ₹15 lakhs in India in 2025?
The Tata Nexon and Hyundai Verna offer 5-star safety ratings and fit under ₹15 lakhs in most variants, making them excellent options.
Do all these cars have 6 airbags as standard?
Yes, all the cars listed here come with 6 airbags in their higher or top trims, while some even offer them as standard across all variants.
Is ADAS available in these cars?
ADAS features are available in Tata Harrier, Tata Safari, and Hyundai Verna. These include forward collision warning, lane assist, and emergency braking.
