Safety has become one of the most important purchase factors for Indian car buyers, and the introduction of the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP) in 2023 has added much-needed clarity. Under this programme, passenger vehicles are tested for crash safety and rated between 1 and 5 stars. A growing number of SUVs have already bagged the coveted 5-star rating, proving that style and performance can go hand in hand with uncompromised safety.
Here’s a look at the top 8 SUVs with BNCAP 5-star ratings, arranged in ascending order of their adult occupant protection (AOP) scores.
8. Tata Curvv EV
Adult safety: 30.81/32 | Child safety: 44.83/49
The stylish Tata Curvv EV kicks off the list, scoring impressively high in both adult and child occupant protection. All variants – from Creative to the fully-loaded Empowered+ A – come with 6 airbags, ESC, all-wheel disc brakes, a rear camera and parking sensors as standard. Buyers of the top variant also get Level 2 ADAS, adding an extra layer of safety tech.
7. Hyundai Tucson
Adult safety: 30.84/32 | Child safety: 41/49
The premium Hyundai Tucson (petrol variants) also secured strong BNCAP scores. Both petrol and diesel models feature 6 airbags, ESC, Isofix mounts and seatbelt reminders, while the top Signature trim adds an ADAS suite. With its roomy cabin and high-end feel, the Tucson blends comfort with crash-tested reliability.
6. Skoda Kylaq
Adult safety: 30.88/32 | Child safety: 45/49
The Skoda Kylaq, available in Classic, Signature, Signature+ and Prestige trims, makes its mark with excellent scores. Every variant is equipped with 6 airbags, ESC, Isofix anchors and 3-point seatbelts for all passengers. While ADAS isn’t on offer, Skoda has ensured that core safety systems are standard across the line-up.
5. Mahindra Thar Roxx
Adult safety: 31.09/32 | Child safety: 45/49
The rugged Mahindra Thar Roxx proves that an off-roader can be as safe as it is capable. All trims – from MX1 to AX7L – feature 6 airbags, ESC, Isofix child seat mounts, and seatbelt reminders. Higher variants also benefit from a Level 2 ADAS suite, ensuring this adventure SUV doesn’t compromise on modern safety tech.
4. Tata Punch EV
Adult safety: 31.46/32 | Child safety: 45/49
The popular Tata Punch EV stands out as a compact yet highly secure SUV. Its full variant line-up comes with 6 airbags, ESC, ABS, Isofix mounts and 3-point seatbelts for every seat. While ADAS is missing here, the Punch EV still delivers segment-leading protection backed by stellar crash test performance.
3. Mahindra BE 6
Adult safety: 31.97/32 | Child safety: 45/49
The futuristic Mahindra BE 6 (earlier known as BE 6e) not only turns heads with its bold design but also impresses with near-perfect crash scores. Every variant is loaded with 6 airbags, TPMS, rear camera, parking sensors, Isofix anchors and seatbelt reminders. Higher trims even add Level 2 ADAS and driver drowsiness detection, making it one of the most tech-savvy SUVs in this list.
2. Tata Harrier EV
Adult safety: 32/32 | Child safety: 45/49
The Tata Harrier EV achieved the rare feat of a perfect adult occupant protection score, combined with near-full marks for child safety. Across all trims, you get 6 airbags, disc brakes on all wheels, TPMS, Isofix mounts and a rear camera. The top Empowered variant adds ADAS, taking safety tech to the next level.
1. Mahindra XEV 9e
Adult safety: 32/32 | Child safety: 45/49
Sharing the crown with the Harrier EV, the Mahindra XEV 9e also scored a flawless 32/32 in adult protection. Standard safety equipment includes 6 airbags, TPMS, rear camera, disc brakes and Isofix child seat mounts, while ADAS features are reserved for Pack Two and Pack Three variants. This makes the XEV 9e one of the safest and most advanced electric SUVs in the country.
Final Thoughts
The rise of 5-star BNCAP-rated SUVs shows how carmakers are finally prioritising safety for Indian buyers. From compact EVs like the Punch EV to premium flagships like the Harrier EV and XEV 9e, buyers today have safer choices than ever before. With safety scores this high, the focus is no longer just on style and features – these SUVs prove that passenger protection is equally front and centre.
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