In India, a car is more than just a machine. It is a part of the family. It is where friendships grow stronger over roadside chai and where couples steal moments while parked under the stars. You often see a jam-packed family laughing loudly through their open windows. We celebrate cars on every auspicious occasion. Imagine a family of four setting off on their first big road trip across India. Ravi, the dad, always double-checks everything. Priya, the mom, packs snacks and drinks for everyone. And their two kids, Aryan and Anya, are bubbling with excitement in the back seat. But what is the one thing Ravi and Priya worry about the most? Yes, you guessed it right - safety!
Have you ever thought about what makes a car truly safe? Is it the airbags, the sturdy build, or those smart features that can even sense danger before you do? Ravi had all these questions, too. To figure out which car was the safest, he put a lot of time into his research and test drives.
Have you ever found yourself in the same position as Ravi?
What if we told you that this article is meant for you if you want to know which Indian vehicle is the safest for your family members? We will discuss the best safety features and distinguishing factors of the top 10 picks for the safest automobiles in India. Are you ready?
Here's a list of the safest vehicles to get started with-
Top 10 Safest Cars In India
Listed below are our top picks for the safest cars out there -
Car
|
GNCAP Rating – Adult Occupant Score (Maximum 17 points)
|
GNCAP Rating – Child Occupant Score (Maximum 49 points)
|
Tata Harrier
|
5 stars (33.05 max. 34 points)*
|
5 stars (45.00)
|
Tata Safari
|
5 stars (33.05 max. 34 points)*
|
5 stars (45.00)
|
Volkswagen Virtus
|
5 stars (29.71 max. 34 points)*
|
5 stars (42.00)
|
Skoda Slavia
|
5 stars (29.71 max. 34 points)*
|
5 stars (42.00)
|
Skoda Kushaq
|
5 stars (29.64 max. 34 points)*
|
5 stars (42.00)
|
Volkswagen Taigun
|
5 stars (29.64 max. 34 points)*
|
5 stars (42.00)
|
Hyundai Verna
|
5 stars (28.18 max. 34 points)*
|
5 stars (42.00)
|
Mahindra Scorpio N
|
5 stars (29.25 max. 34 points)*
|
3 stars (28.93)
|
Tata Punch
|
5 stars (16.45)
|
4 stars (40.89)
|
Mahindra XUV300
|
5 stars (16.42)
|
4 stars (41.66)
|
Let’s take a look at them one by one -
Tata Harrier
![](https://smcinsurance.com/SocialImages/2024/10-safest-car-in-india/tata-harrier.jpg)
Source
Tata Motors recently launched the redesigned Harrier in India. Its striking new design and superior safety features generated a lot of discussion. It's the Global New Car Assessment Programme's (G-NCAP) most recent 5-star safety rating that is getting people talking.
The Harrier's strong construction can be seen by its remarkable score of 33.05 out of 34 for adult occupant safety.
And it goes farther than that -
In the child occupant category, it earned a solid 45 out of 49 points, reinforcing its reputation for robust quality.
Every variant of the Harrier comes standard with 6 airbags. And guess what? The top-specific models even include a dedicated driver knee airbag. Tata has loaded the Harrier with a suite of advanced safety technology, like ISOFIX child seat mounts and an Electronic Stability Program. This makes it the safest car in India and gives you the best peace of mind on the road.
So, what is the price?
The ex-showroom pricing range is between Rs. 15.49 lakhs and Rs. 25.49 lakhs. In addition to providing excellent safety, the Tata Harrier also expertly combines substance and style. It is a car that prioritises safety over both style and performance without sacrificing either.
What you can expect from this incredible car is as outlined below -
Feature
|
Description
|
Six Airbags
|
To ensure total safety in the event of an accident, the front, side, and curtain airbags are strategically deployed to shield occupants from all sides.
|
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
|
The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) helps you maintain control and stability while driving by keeping your car firmly planted when you make quick manoeuvres.
|
Corner Stability Control
|
Maintains stability and agility when navigating sharp turns, ensuring confidence and control.
|
Hill Hold Assist
|
Keeps the vehicle stationary on steep slopes for a smooth start, making uphill driving effortless.
|
Panic Brake Alert
|
Instantly notifies nearby vehicles during sudden braking, preventing potential rear-end collisions.
|
Rear Parking Sensor
|
It helps make parking operations less stressful by detecting obstructions behind the car.
|
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
|
Heavy braking cannot lock up a wheel because of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which makes stops on slippery terrain safer and more seamless.
|
Tata Safari
![](https://smcinsurance.com/SocialImages/2024/10-safest-car-in-india/tata-safari.jpg)
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The Tata Safari is yet another vehicle that we have from Tata. Recently, Tata Motors revealed the revamped Harrier and Safari together. It adds some subtle exterior improvements without sacrificing its roomy seven-seater arrangement. Constructed using the sturdy Harrier platform, this SUV has received an astounding 5-star safety rating in Global NCAP crash testing.
The Safari received an amazing 33.05 out of 34 marks for adult occupant safety, which reflects its strong build quality. In the child occupant category, it received an impressive 45 out of 49 points. This echoes its strong performance and solid build quality.
What other features does this car offer?
The Safari has many safety features, such as traction control, an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), six airbags, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and hill-hold assistance.
And how do they help?
These technologies come together to ensure a secure driving experience for families, blending safety with versatility seamlessly.
What is the price?
With ex-showroom prices starting from Rs. 16.19 lakh up to Rs. 25.49 lakh, the Tata Safari caters perfectly to discerning families. It shouts passenger protection, style, and performance without compromise.
Here are some advanced features that this safest car has to offer -
Feature
|
Description
|
Six Airbags
|
In the event of a collision, occupants are completely protected by front, side, and curtain airbags.
|
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
|
It keeps the vehicle stable during abrupt manoeuvres, reducing skidding and guaranteeing control while driving.
|
Corner Stability Control
|
Adjusts brake pressure to enhance stability while navigating corners, being one of the safest cars in India.
|
Hill Hold Assist
|
Holds the vehicle steady on steep slopes, making uphill starts effortless and stress-free.
|
Panic Brake Alert
|
Activates emergency lights during hard braking, alerting nearby vehicles and reducing collision risks.
|
Rear Parking Sensor
|
It enhances manoeuvrability while parking in confined places by detecting obstructions behind the car.
|
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
|
Even on slippery surfaces, it shortens stopping distances, keeps steering control, and avoids wheel lockup during severe braking.
|
Volkswagen Virtus
![](https://smcinsurance.com/SocialImages/2024/10-safest-car-in-india/Volkswagen-Virtus.jpg)
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Volkswagen's Virtus is a noteworthy model among the many high-end mid-size cars available. Its explicit goal is to take aim at industry mainstays such as the Honda City and Hyundai Verna. It is not just any other car - it is a safety titan! The car received an amazing 5-star rating for both adult and child occupant safety from Global NCAP, completing thorough testing.
And guess what? Scoring 29.71 points for adult safety and an impressive 42 points for child safety, the Virtus has firmly established itself as India's go-to sedan.
What sets the Virtus apart?
Its cutting-edge safety features include six airbags, park distance control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a rearview camera, hill hold assistance, and multi-collision brakes.
But what about the price?
The ex-showroom pricing ranges between Rs. 11.48 lakhs and Rs. 19.29 lakhs. The Volkswagen Virtus raises the standard for what an Indian mid-size sedan can offer by prioritising safety while still delivering performance and flair.
Let’s take a look at some of the promising features of this safest car in India -
Feature
|
Description
|
Six Airbags
|
Feel secure with six airbags offering front, side, and curtain protection.
|
Electronic Stability Control
|
Keep your ride steady with electronic stability control for confident manoeuvres.
|
Traction Control
|
Accelerate with confidence! With traction control, you do not have to worry about wheel spin.
|
ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
|
Ensure child safety with ISOFIX child seat mounts for secure attachment.
|
Tyre Pressure Deflation Warning
|
Stay aware with a tyre pressure deflation warning for peace of mind.
|
Brake Assist
|
Brake with confidence using brake assist for shorter stopping distances.
|
Hill-Hold Assist
|
Conquer the roads of hills effortlessly with a hill-hold assist, preventing rollbacks.
|
Front Seatbelt Reminder
|
Buckle up safely with a front seatbelt reminder for added peace of mind.
|
Next Up Is Skoda Slavia
![](https://smcinsurance.com/SocialImages/2024/10-safest-car-in-india/Next-Up-Is-Skoda-Slavia.jpg)
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The Volkswagen Virtus and the Skoda Slavia are two of the most stylish mid-size sedans on the market. They both proudly display the highly sought-after 5-star safety certification obtained from Global NCAP crash testing. With identically excellent ratings of 29.71 points for adult passengers and 42 points for kid passengers, the Slavia establishes itself as a competitive option for families and drivers who prioritise safety.
What does this style icon promise?
Numerous safety accessories are included with the Skoda Slavia. Among the features that guarantee strong safety and comfort on every trip are six airbags, ABS, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and ESC (Electronic Stability Control). These cutting-edge features prioritise passenger safety first and are not merely superfluous additions.
And the price?
In addition to offering safety, the Skoda Slavia is affordably priced between Rs. 10.89 lakhs to Rs. 19.12 lakhs (ex-showroom). It neatly delivers a combination of refinement and reliability that raises the benchmark for this segment. If you are planning to book a smart sedan, the Slavia is a desirable choice since it combines contemporary safety features with outstanding looks. Thus, this becomes the greatest option if you are travelling on a highway or within your city. The Skoda Slavia thus stands strong as an icon of unwavering quality and innovation.
Here’s what you can expect from this car -
Feature
|
Description
|
Six Airbags
|
Front, side, and curtain airbags envelop occupants, providing all-around protection in case of a collision, ensuring their safety is never compromised.
|
ABS With EBD
|
An Anti-Lock Brake System that comes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution ensures stable braking in challenging conditions. It simply allows you to confidently stop when needed most.
|
Multi Collision Braking
|
Automatically engages brakes after a collision to prevent secondary impacts and safeguard everyone inside.
|
Traction Control
|
Enhances grip and stability during acceleration, minimising wheel spin for a smooth and controlled ride.
|
Hill-Hold Control
|
Keeps the vehicle stationary on steep inclines, making uphill starts effortless and stress-free.
|
TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
|
Alerts you to low tyre pressure, ensuring optimal performance and safety of your tyres at all times.
|
ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
|
The car secures attachment points for child safety seats. This will ensure your little passengers are safely seated throughout the journey.
|
Skoda Kushaq
![](https://smcinsurance.com/SocialImages/2024/10-safest-car-in-india/skoda-kushaq.jpg)
Source
Move aside, move aside - the Skoda Kushaq is here!
A top-notch option for a mid-size SUV is the Skoda Kushaq. With its exceptional qualities, it leaps to new heights. The rigorous inspection conducted by Global NCAP has validated its status as a safety champion. It has received the highly sought-after 5-star rating for both adult and child occupants. Interestingly, the car received scores of 29.64 and 42 points, respectively. This confirms its status as one of the safest SUVs in India.
The Skoda Kushaq boasts a number of modern safety features that ensure continual safety on every trip. This includes six airbags, traction control, ABS, brake disc wiping, rollover prevention and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Do you want to know the price?
It is priced competitively between Rs. 10.89 lakhs and Rs. 20 lakhs (ex-showroom). The Skoda Kushaq comfortably combines safety, performance, and style as an irresistible package.
Let's explore some of the impressive features of one of the safest cars - the Skoda Kushaq
Feature
|
Description
|
Six Airbags
|
Front, side, and curtain airbags envelop all occupants, ensuring enhanced protection in the event of a collision and prioritising safety for everyone inside.
|
ABS With EBD
|
Combines Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution for stable braking performance under various conditions, enhancing control and safety.
|
Multi Collision Braking
|
Automatically engages brakes after an initial collision to minimise subsequent impacts, safeguarding vehicle and passengers.
|
Traction Control
|
Optimises grip during acceleration, ensuring stable and confident handling on any road surface by minimising wheel spin.
|
Hill-Hold Control
|
Prevents vehicle rollback on inclines, facilitating smooth and safe uphill starts for a comfortable driving experience.
|
TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
|
Monitors tyre pressure in real-time, alerting the driver to any issues promptly to ensure optimal tyre performance and safety.
|
ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
|
It comes with secure attachment points for child safety seats. This ensures safe and secure travel for young passengers on every journey.
|
Hyundai Verna
![](https://smcinsurance.com/SocialImages/2024/10-safest-car-in-india/hyundai-verna.jpg)
Source
With a price tag that falls between Rs. 10.96 lakhs and Rs. 17.38 lakhs (ex-showroom), the Hyundai Verna is a visually striking vehicle. It has a unique LED DRL bar that gives it a more contemporary appearance. But this car excels in safety as well as appearance! The Global New Car Assessment Programme has bestowed upon it a distinguished 5-star grade (G-NCAP).
The Verna displays a high commitment to passenger protection, scoring a remarkable 42 points out of 49 in child occupant safety and 28.18 points out of 34 in adult occupant safety.
With this car, what more is there to ask for?
Standard safety features include six airbags, hill-start assist for smoother incline starts, automatic headlamps for enhanced visibility, ISOFIX child seat mounts for secure seating, and more. These features provide a feeling of safeguarding in diverse driving scenarios.
What about the safety features? Let’s discuss -
Feature
|
Description
|
Six Airbags
|
Front, side, and curtain airbags deploy strategically to provide comprehensive protection for all occupants, ensuring their safety in case of a collision.
|
Electronic Stability Control
|
Maintains vehicle stability during manoeuvres to prevent skidding and ensure safe driving conditions.
|
Corner Stability Control
|
Adjusts brake pressure and vehicle dynamics to enhance stability and confidence while cornering.
|
Hill Start Assist
|
Keeps the vehicle stationary momentarily after releasing the brake pedal on hills, facilitating smooth uphill starts.
|
Vehicle Stability Management
|
Coordinates safety systems to enhance control during manoeuvres, providing additional safety and confidence.
|
Rear Parking Sensor
|
It detects obstacles behind the vehicle, aiding precise manoeuvring and enhancing safety during parking.
|
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
|
It prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, maintains steering control, and reduces stopping distances on slippery roads.
|
Mahindra Scorpio-N
![](https://smcinsurance.com/SocialImages/2024/10-safest-car-in-india/Mahindra-Scorpio-N.jpg)
Source
Building on almost two decades of history, the Mahindra Scorpio-N, the most recent version of this well-known SUV, maintains a strong hold on the Indian market. This edition has many new modern additions, enhanced features, fresh design elements, and significantly better safety measures. With its amazing 5-star safety rating in the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) category, obtained after rigorous testing by Global NCAP, the Scorpio-N has set a new benchmark for safety in India. It showed its commitment to passenger safety with a commendable score of 29.25 out of 34. With a solid 3-star rating (28.93 out of 49 points), the Scorpio-N performed admirably in the Child Occupant Protection (COP) space as well.
Is there more?
Dual front airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and ISOFIX-compatible child seat mounts are standard features of the Mahindra Scorpio-N. These elements combine to provide a safe driving experience whether you are travelling through crowded roadways or unpaved areas.
The Scorpio-N's new improvements reinforce its status as a dependable and secure SUV while still providing a sleek and contemporary style.
So, does that mean the vehicle costs a lot? No!
The Mahindra Scorpio-N is priced between Rs. 11.99 lakhs and Rs. 23.90 lakhs (ex-showroom), but it offers more than just new amenities and a stylish makeover. Its strong dedication to passenger safety makes it a very attractive option in the cutthroat SUV market.
Here are some of the awesome safety features that you can enjoy -
Feature
|
Description
|
Six Airbags
|
You get comprehensive protection for all passengers with the help of front, side, and curtain airbags. These airbags make sure that everyone is safe in the event of a collision.
|
Electronic Stability Control
|
Enhances vehicle stability during manoeuvres, significantly reducing the risk of skidding and maintaining control in tricky situations.
|
Driver Drowsiness Detection
|
This cool feature alerts the driver when signs of drowsiness are detected. It is the best safety car in India that promotes safer driving practices and helps prevent accidents caused by fatigue.
|
ABS With EBD
|
Prevents wheel lock-up during braking, ensuring better control and shorter stopping distances, even in emergency situations.
|
ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
|
Secure attachment points for child seats ensure proper installation and safety for the youngest passengers, providing peace of mind for parents.
|
TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
|
Continuously monitors tyre pressure and alerts the driver to low-pressure conditions, enhancing safety and helping extend the life of your tyres.
|
Hill Hold Control
|
It prevents your vehicle from rolling back on inclines, facilitating smoother and more confident uphill starts.
|
Hill Descent Control
|
This feature maintains a steady speed while descending steep slopes. It enhances control and safety in challenging terrain, making off-road adventures more manageable.
|
Tata Punch
![](https://smcinsurance.com/SocialImages/2024/10-safest-car-in-india/tata-punch.jpg)
Source
Don't be misled by the Tata Punch's small size; it is Tata Motors' entry-level vehicle in the micro-SUV market. Remaining steadfast in the premium hatchback segment, the Punch places an unmatched focus on safety. Its remarkable 5-star NCAP certification attests to its commitment to security. With almost perfect scores of 16.45 out of 17 in the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) category, the Punch sets the standard for safe driving experiences. It also received an incredible 40.89 out of 49 points in the category of Child Occupant Protection (COP).
How good is this car?
The Tata Punch is loaded with many safety features. It is among the safest vehicles in India because of its two airbags, 4-channel ABS, ISOFIX anchorage for child seats, and other such amazing features. These features ensure peace of mind for both drivers and passengers, making every journey a safe and enjoyable one.
Another area where the Tata Punch excels is its price tag. Ex-showroom pricing ranges from Rs. 5.82 lakh to Rs. 9.48 lakh, providing an excellent balance between affordability and premium safety features. With this combination, the Punch stands out from the crowd, ensuring you can find a car that meets your driving needs without compromising on style or safety.
Mahindra XUV300
![](https://smcinsurance.com/SocialImages/2024/10-safest-car-in-india/Mahindra-XUV300.jpg)
Source
With pride, the Mahindra XUV300 is the company's first car to earn the esteemed 5-star GNCAP rating. With its highest model boasting six airbags, this tiny SUV is outfitted with cutting-edge safety measures that provide complete protection for every passenger.
In the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) category, it received an outstanding 16.42 out of a possible 17 points. In the Child Occupant Protection (COP) category, it received a commendable 4-star rating (37.44 out of 49). By accomplishing this, the XUV300 establishes a high bar for safety in Indian cars.
What more is there to ask for from this outstanding Mahindra choice?
Beyond just being exceptionally safe, the XUV300 is a unique option in its class because of its combination of strong performance and a stylish design. The Mahindra XUV300 demonstrates that style and safety don't have to be sacrificed for a compact, thanks to its impressive safety ratings and a myriad of cutting-edge technologies.
What about the safety?
Feature
|
Description
|
Six Airbags
|
Front, side, and curtain airbags give you comprehensive protection when a collision takes place, ensuring peace of mind for everyone on board.
|
Electronic Stability Control
|
Enhances vehicle stability during manoeuvres, minimising skidding and maintaining traction on slippery roads.
|
Driver Drowsiness Detection
|
Monitors driving behaviour for signs of fatigue and alerts the driver to take a break, promoting safer driving habits and reducing accident risks.
|
ABS with EBD
|
Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution prevents wheel lock-up during sudden braking, offering enhanced control and shorter stopping distances in emergencies.
|
ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
|
Secure anchorage points ensure proper installation and safety for child seats, providing utmost safety for young passengers.
|
TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
|
Constantly monitors tyre pressure, alerts to pressure drops, enhancing safety, improving fuel efficiency, and prolonging tyre life.
|
Hill Hold Control
|
Keeps the vehicle stationary when starting uphill, ensuring smooth and safe ascents without rollback worries on steep inclines.
|
Hill Descent Control
|
Maintains a steady speed while descending steep slopes, ensuring optimal control and stability, especially in challenging off-road conditions.
|
Tata Nexon
![](https://smcinsurance.com/SocialImages/2024/10-safest-car-in-india/Tata-Nexon.jpg)
Source
The Tata Nexon proudly holds the distinction of being the first made-in-India vehicle to achieve a prestigious 5-star rating from the Global NCAP. In the adult occupant protection category, the Tata Nexon scored an impressive 16.06 points out of a maximum of 17, securing its top-tier rating. Also, in the child occupant protection category, it scored 25 points out of a possible 49.
How good is this car?
The Nexon comes with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and a suite of other advanced safety features; the Tata Nexon prioritises passenger safety without compromise. These features work together to provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
With its robust safety ratings and comprehensive safety features, the Tata Nexon proves that safety is not just a priority, but also one of the core values. The Tata Nexon is a testament to Tata's commitment to ensuring that every drive is secure, comfortable, and enjoyable.
Let's explore Nexon’s advanced safety features that ensure a secure and confident driving experience -
Feature
|
Description
|
Six Airbags
|
Front, side, and curtain airbags assure you complete protection for all passengers in the case of a collision, prioritising safety without compromise.
|
Electronic Stability Control
|
Actively enhances vehicle stability during manoeuvres, minimising skidding and maintaining control on slippery roads or sudden turns.
|
Driver Drowsiness Detection
|
This feature monitors the driver’s behaviour for signs of drowsiness and alerts the driver. It helps promote safer driving practices and reduces accident risks due to fatigue.
|
ABS with EBD
|
Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution prevents wheel lock-up during sudden braking, ensuring precise control in critical situations.
|
ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
|
Secure attachment points ensure proper installation and safety of child seats, providing peace of mind for families travelling with young passengers.
|
TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
|
Continuously monitors tyre pressure, alerts to low-pressure conditions, enhancing safety, improving fuel efficiency, and extending tyre lifespan.
|
Hill Hold Control
|
Keeps the vehicle stationary when starting uphill, ensuring smooth and effortless starts, particularly in challenging terrain.
|
Hill Descent Control
|
Maintains a controlled speed while descending steep slopes, enhancing stability and safety during off-road adventures.
|
To Wrap Up,
When it comes to safety on Indian roads, these top 10 cars lead the pack with their impressive features. From multiple airbags to advanced stability controls and child safety provisions, each vehicle ensures peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. These cars prioritise your safety at every single turn. With robust safety ratings and innovative technologies, they set a high standard for what a safe ride should be. Choosing any of these cars means choosing reliability, comfort, and, above all, your well-being on the road. Also, while you spend enough time researching which is the safest car in India, do not forget to buy a robust car insurance policy with it.
FAQs
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) prevents your car's wheels from locking up during braking, maintaining traction on the road. EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), an extension of ABS, ensures that the right amount of braking force is applied to each wheel for optimal control and safety.
According to GNCAP safety ratings, the Tata Harrier and Tata Safari are recognised as the safest car in India, achieving an impressive 5-star rating from the agency. These vehicles stand out for their commitment to safety and robust performance in crash tests.
The GNCAP conducts crash tests to assess the crashworthiness of cars, rating them from zero to five stars based on their performance.
When you are buying a new car, you should prioritise safety features like airbags, safety assist systems, anti-lock brakes (ABS), lane assist, and more. These features play a great role in enhancing driver and passenger safety on the road.
The Global NCAP rating for Indian cars in 2024 hinges on the results of the Front Offset Crash Test.
Yes, the NCAP rating stands as one of the most reliable indicators of vehicle safety.
The highest safety rating for cars is 5, while the lowest rating is 0. It serves as a clear benchmark for assessing vehicle safety standards.