As Indian buyers increasingly prioritize safety over affordability, Bharat NCAP (BNCAP), India’s auto safety benchmark, has emerged as a critical rating agency. In 2025, several new models achieved perfect five-star ratings in both Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and Child Occupant Protection (COP). This article examines the Top 5 safest cars in India based on these crash-test results, their pricing, variants, and why they stand out in safety and ownership value.
Why Bharat NCAP Ratings Matter
Bharat NCAP assesses crash performance using AOP (maximum score 32) and COP (maximum score 49). Beyond structural strength, modern safety testing now includes seatbelt reminders, ISOFIX mounts, electronic stability control, and even ADAS features. With road fatalities still high nationally, consumers are demanding cars with real-world crash protection.
In 2025, vehicles with full 5-star safety from BNCAP made up over 15% of new car sales—a clear signal of a shifting mindset among Indian buyers.
The Top 5 Safest Cars in 2025 (Bharat NCAP Ratings)
According to official BNCAP results tested through mid‑2025, Top 5 Safest Cars models lead in safety:
1. Mahindra XEV 9e (EV SUV Coupe)
- AOP Score: 32.00/32 | COP Score: 45.00/49
- Key Features: Seven airbags, ESC, ISOFIX anchors, Level-2 ADAS, rear camera
- USP: India’s first EV with perfect crash scores in both adult and child protection. Estimated price: ₹21.9 L–₹31.25 L
2. Tata Harrier EV (Mid-size EV SUV)
- AOP Score: 32.00/32 | COP Score: 45.00/49
- Key Features: Level‑2 ADAS, ISOFIX, Hill Descent Control, 360° camera
- USP: Spacious family SUV with strong safety and long-range EV capability. Estimated price: ₹21.49 L–₹30.23 L
3. Mahindra BE 6 (EV SUV Coupe)
- AOP Score: 31.97/32 | COP Score: 45/49
- Key Features: Driver monitoring, dynamic brake assist, AI safety alerts
- USP: AI-powered EV offering near-perfect crash performance. Estimated price: ₹19.40 L–₹27.65 L
4. Tata Punch EV (Compact EV SUV)
- AOP Score: 31.46/32 | COP Score: 45/49
- Key Features: Six airbags, ESP, TPMS, Hill Hold Assist
- USP: Budget EV that doesn’t compromise on safety. Estimated price: ₹9.99 L–₹14.44 L
5. Mahindra Thar ROXX (Body-on-Frame Off-Roader)
- AOP Score: 31.09/32 | COP Score: 45/49
- Key Features: Roll cage, ESC, six airbags, off-road assist
- USP: First lifestyle off-roader in India to earn a full five-star BNCAP rating. Estimated price: ₹12.99 L–₹23.39 L
Safety by the Numbers: Crash Test Scores Table
| Rank | Model | Body Type | AOP Score | COP Score | Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mahindra XEV 9e | EV SUV Coupe | 32/32 | 45/49 | 7 airbags, ESC, ADAS, ISOFIX |
| 2 | Tata Harrier EV | Mid-size EV SUV | 32/32 | 45/49 | 6 airbags, ESC, 360° camera, Level-2 ADAS |
| 3 | Mahindra BE 6 | EV SUV Coupe | 31.97/32 | 45/49 | AI driver assist, ESC, dynamic braking |
| 4 | Tata Punch EV | Compact EV SUV | 31.46/32 | 45/49 | 6 airbags, ESP, TPMS, Hill Hold Assist |
| 5 | Mahindra Thar ROXX | Off-road SUV | 31.09/32 | 45/49 | Roll cage, ESC, six airbags, off-road aid |
Detailed Review of Each Model
Mahindra XEV 9e
This premium EV coupe leads the pack with perfect adult protection and top child safety scores. It includes high-end features like Level‑2 ADAS, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Built on a robust chassis, it offers both premium comfort and unmatched crash protection for the EV segment.
Tata Harrier EV
Tata’s Harrier EV mirrors its ICE version in size and safety, excelling in crash performance. Standard safety gear like ISOFIX, airbags, and ESC make it a safe family choice. The EV variant adds advanced driver assistance and EV-specific crash reinforcement.
Mahindra BE 6
Engineered with futuristic AI modules, the BE 6 includes fatigue detection and driver alert systems. Though its adult protection score slightly trails the top two, its near-perfect child protection score and smart features make it a standout EV value.
Tata Punch EV
Tata’s compact EV delivers big safety in a small footprint. Affordable and efficient, it provides six airbags, stability control, and ISOFIX mounts. It’s the go-to choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want top-tier crash safety.
Mahindra Thar ROXX
A body-on-frame SUV with rugged off-road capability, the Thar ROXX broke expectations by earning a five-star BNCAP rating. Its roll cage and off-road assist features enhance both safety and utility.
Safety Trends & Consumer Insights
EVs and Safety Go Hand in Hand
Four of the top five safest cars surveyed are electric models, showing how EVs in India are built with stronger structures and comprehensive features like 360° cameras, stability systems, and ADAS.
Safety Enhances Ownership Value
Cars rated five stars by BNCAP tend to command higher resale values and lower insurance premiums. Thoughtful buyers now consider crash performance on par with fuel economy and brand reliability.
Tata and Mahindra Lead the Pack
These two automakers dominate the list, thanks to consistent investments in structural design, safety systems, and integration of ADAS at multiple price points.
Buying Guide: How to Use Safety Ratings
- Opt for 5-star BNCAP models when possible—especially those with high adult and child protection scores.
- Consider variant features: higher trims may include ADAS, 360° cameras, and additional airbags.
- Think long-term: cars with advanced safety often retain better resale values and cost less to insure.
Quick Price & Variants Summary Table
| Model | Starting Price (₹ Lakh) | Top Variant Price (₹ Lakh) | Notable Variants |
|---|---|---|---|
| XEV 9e | 21.90 | 31.25 | EV Coupe with ADAS & luxury interiors |
| Harrier EV | 21.49 | 30.23 | EV SUV with 7 seats and Level‑2 ADAS |
| BE 6 | 19.40 | 27.65 | AI-featured EV SUV coupe |
| Punch EV | 9.99 | 14.44 | Budget EV hatch with 6 airbags |
| Thar ROXX | 12.99 | 23.39 | Lifestyle off-road SUV with 4WD |
Final Thoughts
In 2025, Bharat NCAP Top 5 Safest Cars five-star car ownership is no longer limited to premium models. Even budget EVs like Tata Punch now deliver exceptional crash protection. As safety becomes a priority for Indian consumers, cars like Mahindra XEV 9e, Tata Harrier EV, and Mahindra BE 6 lead the charge in marrying innovation with peace of mind. Check the latest ratings before deciding—safety is now a defining feature of smart purchase decisions.