Estimated Reading Time: 15 minutes
Key Takeaways
Bharat NCAP has tested 24 models so far—22 scored 5 stars
Perfect adult crash scores (32/32 AOP) are very rare
Safety kit like 6 airbags, ESC, ISOFIX, and TPMS is key to high scores
EVs are not just clean—they're exceptionally safe
Star ratings apply only when trims share structure and safety kit
Table of Contents
What is Bharat NCAP, and Why Does It Matter?
Launched in 2023, the Bharat NCAP crash-tests India-sold vehicles and awards star ratings based on:
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP)
Child Occupant Protection (COP)
These tests also evaluate ISOFIX mounts, ESC, belt reminders, and more essentials that directly affect real-world safety.
Quick Tip on Reading the Results
Here’s how to read each test:
AOP score: out of 32 points
COP score: out of 49 points
Look for perfect (32/32) AOP scores—they set benchmarks
Star ratings often apply to base and top trims if safety structures match
Bharat NCAP methodology details the scoring system in depth.
The Full List: Every Car Tested
24 models tested so far, across hatchbacks, sedans, MPVs, and EVs. Here are real results:
Scroll through below:
Top scorer: Mahindra XEV 9e – 32/32 AOP, 45/49 COP
Lowest-rated: Maruti Suzuki Baleno – up to 4 stars, 26.52/32 AOP
Explore each model in-depth via AutoWisdom articles:
Big Safety Takeaways
India’s cars are safer than ever: 22 of 24 models earned 5 stars (see Bharat NCAP summary)
Electric = Safe: 6 EVs scored 5 stars, some with perfect AOP (BNCAP test results)
Two 4-stars show contrast: Baleno higher trims helped AOP, Basalt shows child-seat improvement area
6 airbags baseline: Most top-rated cars now offer it from the base trim (manufacturer specifications)
How to Use These Ratings When Buying
Match trim, not just nameplate: Same name doesn’t always mean same protection.
Got kids? COP scores and BNCAP child seat advice are crucial.
Look for: 6 airbags + ESC + ISOFIX + warning chimes + TPMS (BNCAP safety criteria)
ADAS ≠ crash safety: ADAS helps avoid hits but doesn’t replace structure or seat belts.
Which Models Scored What: Quick Recap
Top EVs (5-star):
Mahindra XEV 9e: 32/32 AOP
Tata Harrier EV: 32/32 AOP
Tata Punch EV, Nexon EV, Curvv EV: 30–31.5 AOP
Mahindra BE 6: 31.97 AOP
ICE cars (5-star):
Toyota Innova Hycross
Hyundai Tucson
Skoda Kylaq
Tata Harrier, Safari
Maruti Invicto, Dzire, Victoris
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a 5-star car always safer than a 4-star one?
A: Crash-test data shows potential protection, not guarantees. Belt use and child seat fitment matter too. Read Bharat NCAP FAQs.
Q: Why do trims post different AOP points?
A: Mainly due to airbag count and restraint tuning. Example: Maruti Baleno.
Q: Does ADAS boost star ratings?
A: No. These systems prevent crashes but don’t influence core rating. See BNCAP protocol.
Q: Are SUVs safer than hatchbacks or sedans?
A: Category doesn’t decide safety. Dzire and Altroz show that smaller cars can score big.