It’s been nearly two years since the new Global NCAP crash test protocol came into effect in July 2022. Under the new protocol, a vehicle receives a 5-star rating only if it gets the required scores while also conforming to the ESC, pedestrian protection, side impact, and seat belt reminder requirements for Global NCAP. So far, 18 made-in-India models have been tested under this new protocol. Here’s an updated list of the top 10 safest cars and SUVs currently on sale in India, as rated by Global NCAP.
10. Mahindra Bolero Neo – 1 star (20.26 points)
The Bolero Neo’s crash test result was released on April 23, 2024. The second Mahindra to be tested under the new protocols didn’t do nearly as well as the first – the Bolero Neo scored 20.26 points for adult occupancy, gaining just a 1-star rating. The SUV’s low score was attributed to an unstable structure, lack of curtain airbags, seat belt reminders for all passengers, and side-facing third-row seats.
9. Maruti Suzuki Alto K 10 – 2 stars (21.67 points)
The Alto K10’s crash test result was released on April 4, 2023. Despite being its smallest model, the Alto K10 is the highest scoring Maruti model in this list. It scored 21.67 points and secured a 2-star rating for adult occupant protection. However, its child occupant protection received a zero-star rating due to limited safety features.
8. Honda Amaze – 2 stars (27.85 points)
The Amaze’s crash test result was released on April 23, 2024. The Honda Amaze earned a 2-star rating for adult occupant protection and a 0-star rating for child occupant protection. It lacked ESC and scored poorly in chest and knee protection.
7. Kia Carens – 3 stars (22.07 points)
The Carens’ crash test result was released on April 23, 2024. Initially receiving zero stars due to safety concerns, Kia improved the Carens’ restraint systems to achieve a 3-star rating for adult occupant protection. It excelled in child occupant protection.
6. Hyundai Verna – 5 stars (28.18 points)
The Verna’s crash test result was released on October 3, 2023. The Hyundai Verna became the first Hyundai model in India to achieve a 5-star rating. It scored well in both adult and child occupant protection.
5. Mahindra Scorpio N – 5 stars (29.25 points)
The Scorpio N’s crash test result was released on December 12, 2022. Mahindra’s Scorpio N SUV scored impressively in adult occupant protection and also performed well in child occupant protection.
4. Volkswagen Taigun/Skoda Kushaq – 5 stars (29.64 points)
The Taigun and Kushaq’s crash test results were released on October 14, 2022. Built on the same platform, these SUVs from Volkswagen and Skoda achieved a 5-star rating for both adult and child occupant protection.
3. Volkswagen Virtus/Skoda Slavia – 5 stars (29.71 points)
The Virtus and Slavia’s crash test results were released on April 4, 2023. The midsize sedans from Volkswagen and Skoda also secured a 5-star rating, excelling in occupant protection and meeting pedestrian safety norms.
2. Tata Nexon – 5 stars (32.22 points)
The Nexon’s crash test result was released on February 14, 2024. The Tata Nexon received a high score for adult and child occupant protection, significantly improving from its previous rating.
1. Tata Harrier/Safari – 5 stars (33.05 points)
The Harrier and Safari’s crash test results were released on October 17, 2023. Tata Motors’ flagship SUVs, the Harrier and Safari, topped the list with a perfect 5-star safety rating, excelling in both adult and child occupant protection.
This list showcases the safest cars and SUVs currently available in India, as rated by Global NCAP under the latest crash test protocols.
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