Safety rating is a major car deciding factor but you may feel like you have to compromise on safety with a low car budget. To help you with aligning safety with affordability, we have curated a list of the 5-star rating cars in India under 10 lakhs. These safety ratings are given to the cars by Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP which are trusted safety rating systems in India.
Understanding Safety Ratings
Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP are the two major safety ratings systems in India which are trusted by the market. Global NCAP is an international safety assessment program whereas Bharat NCAP is an India-specific safety assessment initiative.
Global NCAP vs. Bharat NCAP
Here is a brief difference between the two for better understanding of how important they both are for Indian automotive industry:
| Aspect | Global NCAP | Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) |
| Full Form | Global New Car Assessment Programme | Bharat New Car Assessment Programme |
| Origin | Independent international safety testing body | Government of India initiative under MoRTH |
| Region Focus | Global, with specific programs for emerging markets (e.g., Safer Cars for India) | Specifically designed for Indian market |
| Launch Year in India | 2014 (Safer Cars for India) | 2023 |
| Test Facilities | Usually conducted in Germany or UK for India-bound cars | Conducted in India at ARAI-certified test centers |
| Rating Scale | 0 to 5 Stars (Adult & Child Occupant Protection) | 0 to 5 Stars (Adult & Child Occupant Protection) |
| Test Speed | 64 km/h frontal offset crash | 64 km/h frontal crash, 50 km/h side crash, etc. |
| Focus Areas | Crashworthiness, structure integrity, restraint systems | Advanced safety including crash tests, seat belt reminders, ESC, etc. |
| Mandatory Participation | Voluntary | Voluntary (but increasingly adopted by OEMs) |
| Regulatory Backing | No regulatory enforcement | Backed by Indian government |
| Impact on Consumer Choice | Influences awareness among informed buyers | Expected to be displayed on vehicle labels for transparency |
| ADAS Evaluation | Not always included | ADAS systems (Level 1/2) considered in scoring |
5-Star Safety Rating Cars in India under 10 Lakhs
Check out the list of the 5-star rated cars in India that you can buy under 10 lakhs:
| Car Name | Ex-Showroom Price Range | Safety Rating | Safety Rating System | Standard Safety Features |
| Tata Punch | ₹6.10 – ₹10.20 lakh | 5-Star | Global NCAP | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, ISOFIX |
| Tata Altroz | ₹6.50 – ₹10.80 lakh | 5-Star | Global NCAP | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, corner stability control, ISOFIX |
| Tata Nexon | ₹7.99 – ₹10.00 lakh | 5-Star | Global NCAP | Multiple airbags, electronic stability control, ISOFIX |
| Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire | ₹6.80 – ₹9.50 lakh | 5-Star | Global NCAP | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO | ₹7.99 – ₹9.99 lakh | 5-Star | Bharat NCAP | Six airbags, ESC, Level 2 ADAS |
| Skoda Kushaq | ₹9.99 – ₹10.00 lakh | 5-Star | Global NCAP | Six airbags, ESC, TPMS, ISOFIX |
| Mahindra e2o NXT | ₹7.50 – ₹9.00 lakh | 5-Star | Bharat NCAP | Dual airbags, ABS, ISOFIX |
| Kia Syros | ₹9.00 – ₹9.99 lakh | 5-Star | Bharat NCAP | Six airbags, ESC, pedestrian protection, Level 2 ADAS |
1. Tata Punch
One of the safest micro-SUVs in India, Tata Punch is considered by the users for all the safety features and mental peace it brings with it. It features a compact and yet rugged design making it perfect for both, city and off-road driving. With high ground clearance, you can literally take it anywhere you like. This affordable car is also available in the EV segment which adds to the efficiency also.
| Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain) | 2 (Front) |
| ABS with EBD | Yes |
| ESC | No |
| ISOFIX child seat mounts | Yes |
| Reverse Parking Sensors / Camera | Sensors + Camera |
| Hill Hold Assist & Hill Descent Control | No |
| ADAS | No |
| Other Safety Features | Strong build quality, 5-star GNCAP |
2. Tata Altroz
Best in the premium hatchback segment, Tata Altroz attracts its users for its looks, space and safety. Featuring an excellent structural rigidity and cabin feel, this car boasts a solid build quality. It is also available in multiple powertrains including petrol, diesel and turbo variants catering to different users. Its spacious rear seat and boot makes it a very practical choice for family use.
| Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain) | 2 (Front) |
| ABS with EBD | Yes |
| ESC | No |
| ISOFIX child seat mounts | Yes |
| Reverse Parking Sensors / Camera | Sensors + Camera |
| Hill Hold Assist & Hill Descent Control | No |
| ADAS | No |
| Other Safety Features | Corner stability control |
3. Tata Nexon
India’s first 5-star safety rated SUV, Tata Nexon comes with the Global NCAP certification building trust among its users. Available in a wide range of variants, petrol, diesel and EV options, this car caters to a wide set of customers. Its feature-rich cabin comes with high-end elements such as sunroof, digital cluster, wireless charger and more. It comes with turbocharged engines and robust suspension which adds to the dynamic driving experience.
| Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain) | 6 (Top variants) |
| ABS with EBD | Yes |
| ESC | Yes |
| ISOFIX child seat mounts | Yes |
| Reverse Parking Sensors / Camera | Sensors + Camera |
| Hill Hold Assist & Hill Descent Control | Yes |
| ADAS | No |
| Other Safety Features | Brake assist, Roll-over mitigation |
4. Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire
One of the most economical sedans we know about, the Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire offers an unmatched fuel efficiency. Owing to its popularity in the country, Maruti has an extensive service network which ensures easy maintenance across India. It has a spacious and comfortable cabin making it ideal for daily commute and small families. Its low maintenance and cheap spare part prices also adds to the affordable ownership cost. Finally, its proven reliability and performance over the years makes it an even better option.
| Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain) | 2 (Front) |
| ABS with EBD | Yes |
| ESC | No |
| ISOFIX child seat mounts | Yes |
| Reverse Parking Sensors / Camera | Sensors + Camera |
| Hill Hold Assist & Hill Descent Control | No |
| ADAS | No |
| Other Safety Features | Speed alert system |
5. Mahindra XUV 3XO
Another safest compact SUVs in India, Mahindra XUV 3XO comes with level 2 ADAS features which means you get advanced safety tech at budget pricing. It has the biggest bootspace in its segment adding to its practicality. It features a new age tech interface including twin screens and connected car features. Its Torquey Turbo Engine adds to the fun of driving it with its strong performance.
| Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain) | 6 |
| ABS with EBD | Yes |
| ESC | Yes |
| ISOFIX child seat mounts | Yes |
| Reverse Parking Sensors / Camera | Sensors + Camera |
| Hill Hold Assist & Hill Descent Control | Yes |
| ADAS | Level 2 ADAS |
| Other Safety Features | Pedestrian detection, TPMS |
6. Skoda Kushaq
Featuring solid European engineering and Turbocharged TSI Engine, the Skoda Kushaq provides you with strong mid-range performance. It provides you with a premium cabin feel with the help of its soft-touch materials and build quality. It also features stable high-speed dynamics ensuring confidence on highways. Finally, we all know about the strong brand legacy which puts in preference of enthusiasts for riding and handling.
| Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain) | 6 |
| ABS with EBD | Yes |
| ESC | Yes |
| ISOFIX child seat mounts | Yes |
| Reverse Parking Sensors / Camera | Sensors + Camera |
| Hill Hold Assist & Hill Descent Control | Yes |
| ADAS | No |
| Other Safety Features | TPMS, High-speed stability |
7. Mahindra e2o NXT
Featuring a compact size, the Mahindra e2o NXT is a city EV that is ideal for tight urban environments. It presents a low running cost as it is fully electric with minimal maintenance making it perfect for everyday commute. It is home-charging enabled ensuring easy charging while its zero tailpipe emission also makes it eco-friendly. It is also very lightweight and easy to park which makes it perfect for new drivers and daily commuters.
| Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain) | 2 (Front) |
| ABS with EBD | Yes |
| ESC | No |
| ISOFIX child seat mounts | Yes |
| Reverse Parking Sensors / Camera | Sensors |
| Hill Hold Assist & Hill Descent Control | No |
| ADAS | No |
| Other Safety Features | Electric drivetrain safety |
8. Kia Syros
Kia Syros provides high safety assurance for family buyers as it also comes with level 2 ADAS in the segment. It features a bold and premium design which consists of stylish exterior and plush interiors. It has a high features-to-price ratio which makes it the best value car in under Rs. 10 lakh bracket. Its comfort and technology blend provides you with ventilated seats, 360° camera, large infotainment system and more.
| Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain) | 6 |
| ABS with EBD | Yes |
| ESC | Yes |
| ISOFIX child seat mounts | Yes |
| Reverse Parking Sensors / Camera | Sensors + Camera |
| Hill Hold Assist & Hill Descent Control | Yes |
| ADAS | Level 2 ADAS |
| Other Safety Features | Pedestrian protection, ESC |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which car has a 5 star safety rating under 10 lakh?
Ans: Cars like Tata Punch, Tata Altroz, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Skoda Kushaq, Mahindra e2o NXT, and Kia Syros have a 5 star safety rating under 10 lakh.
Q2. Which car company has 5 star rating in India?
Ans: Tata motors has a lot of affordable 5 star safety rated cars in India.
Q3. How frequently should one check their car’s safety features?
Ans: It’s recommended to have your car’s safety features checked every 6 months or every 10,000 kilometers.
Q4. Is Bharat NCAP as reliable as Global NCAP?
Ans: Yes, Bharat NCAP follows stringent testing protocols similar to Global NCAP, ensuring high safety standards for Indian cars.
Q5. Are electric cars safer than petrol/diesel cars?
Ans: Electric cars like the Tata Punch.ev often have a lower center of gravity due to battery placement, making them more stable and safer in crashes.
Q6. Which cars in India come with six airbags?
Ans: Cars like the Hyundai i20, Kia Sonet, Kia Seltos, Honda City, Skoda Kushaq, Mahindra XUV300, Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari, and Kia Carens are equipped with six airbags.
