Global NCAP“s “Safer Cars for India” initiative has significantly improved car safety standards in the country. In earlier years, only a few cars managed to achieve good safety ratings, and some were deemed so unsafe that they were recommended for removal from the roads. However, as we fast forward to 2023, there is a notable increase in the number of 5-star safety-rated cars available in India, all priced under Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom). Let”s delve into eleven such cars that prioritize safety:
The Tata Punch, the most affordable 5-star safety-rated car in India, comes with a price tag of Rs 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and boasts 5 stars for adult safety and 4 stars for child protection.
Next in line is another offering from Tata, the Altroz, available in petrol, diesel, and CNG options. Priced starting at Rs 6.59 lakh, it”s the lone hatchback on this list, earning 5 stars for adult protection and 3 stars for child safety.
The Mahindra XUV300, a game-changer for the carmaker, is one of Mahindra”s best-selling vehicles, priced from Rs 7.99 lakh onwards. It has been awarded 5 stars for adult safety and 4 stars for child protection by Global NCAP.
Tata makes another appearance with the Nexon, the carmaker”s best-seller. Priced at Rs 8.09 lakh onwards, it”s available in petrol, diesel, and all-electric variants. The Nexon maintains its 5-star rating for adult protection and a 3-star rating for child occupancy.
Volkswagen and Skoda revamped their offerings with new launches in India, introducing the Virtus and Slavia sedans. The Skoda Slavia, more budget-friendly among the two, starts at Rs 10.89 lakh and both cars secure full points for adult safety and child protection.
Similarly, the Taigun and Kushaq, both new SUVs, follow the sedan counterparts in achieving 5 stars for adult and child occupancy. The Kushaq is the more economical choice, with prices beginning at Rs 10.89 lakh (ex-showroom).
Hyundai Verna has prioritised safety, earning a 5-star rating for both adult and child occupancy. The new Hyundai Verna is priced from Rs 10.96 lakh onwards.
Mahindra”s iconic Scorpio-N, with a price tag starting at Rs 13.26 lakh, has made significant strides in safety, securing 5 stars for adult protection and 3 stars for child safety.
The XUV700, another significant Mahindra launch, offers innovative features, including ADAS tech. Priced at Rs 14.02 lakh onwards, it achieves 5 stars for adult safety and 4 stars for child protection.
Tata expanded its safety-focused lineup with the Harrier facelift, priced at Rs 15.49 lakh. It underwent various crash tests and managed to secure full marks for adult and child safety.
Alongside the Harrier, Tata launched the updated Safari at Rs 16.19 lakh. The Safari has also achieved a 5-star safety rating for both adult and child protection.
These cars represent a significant shift towards safer vehicles in India, reflecting an increased awareness of the importance of road safety. With numerous affordable options offering 5-star safety ratings, consumers have access to safer choices when buying a new car.