If you are looking to buy an SUV in India in 2025, safety is now the first thing most people check. Crash test scores, real-world safety, and clear ratings matter as much as looks or mileage. Thanks to Bharat NCAP, everyone can see which SUVs really protect passengers. Automakers are competing to make cars stronger and safer than ever. Here’s a look at the five SUVs that are the top safety rated SUV in India, with the best crash test scores.
Why Safety Ratings Matter in SUVs
SUVs feel safe because they are big and sit high on the road, but size alone does not mean protection. Safety ratings from Bharat NCAP and Global NCAP show which cars actually protect passengers. The top SUVs use smart design, strong body structure, and modern safety technology to keep drivers and passengers safe in any situation.
How Safety is Tested in India
Bharat NCAP started in 2023 to give buyers a clear idea of car safety. It tests cars in real crash scenarios:
- Frontal crash at 64 km/h
- Side crash and pole impact
- Adult and child crash dummies
- Scores for Adult Occupant Protection (AOP), Child Occupant Protection (COP), and safety features
All tests are on the base variant, so every buyer gets the same safety level. A perfect AOP score is 32, only given to SUVs that provide excellent protection in all critical areas.
Tata Punch EV
(AOP: 31.46/32)
The Tata Punch EV shows that even an affordable SUV can be one of the top safety-rated SUV options. It scored 31.46 out of 32 in AOP (Adult Occupant Protection), showing strong cabin protection for driver and passenger.
Key specifications:
- 5 star India rating
- Multiple airbags
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Traction control (higher trims)
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- High-tensile steel frame and doors
The Punch EV is a safe and dependable choice for families without spending too much.
Maruti Victoris
(AOP: 31.66/32)
The Maruti Victoris raises safety standards with a 31.66 out of 32 AOP score, making it a 5 star India SUV.
Key specifications:
- Up to 6 airbags
- Reinforced passenger cell
- ABS with EBD
- Three-point seatbelts for all seats
- Seatbelt reminders for all passengers
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Level 2 ADAS in top trims
It is a strong, modern SUV that gives safety across all trims, making it one of the best options for buyers.
Mahindra BE 6
(AOP: 31.97/32)
The Mahindra BE 6 almost reached a perfect score with 31.97 out of 32. Its rigid structure and smart crumple zones make it one of the highest-rated SUVs.
Key specifications:
- At least 6 airbags
- Strong crumple zones
- Electronic Stability Control
- 3-point seatbelts for all passengers
- Advanced traction and stability systems
- ADAS in premium variants
This SUV provides high safety and peace of mind for city or highway driving.
Mahindra XEV 9e
(AOP: 32/32)
The Mahindra XEV 9e tops the list with a perfect 32 out of 32 AOP score, making it one of the safest top safety rated SUVs in India.
Key specifications:
- 7 airbags
- Level 2 ADAS suite
- Electronic Stability Control
- 360-degree camera
- Emergency braking system
- Ultra-strong body shell
Its combination of strong build and advanced technology makes it one of the safest SUVs for passengers.
Tata Harrier EV
(AOP: 32/32)
The Tata Harrier EV also scored a perfect 32 out of 32 AOP. Built on the OMEGA ARC platform, it shows how seriously Tata takes safety.
Key specifications:
- 6 airbags from base variant
- Reinforced passenger compartment
- Rigid body structure
- Excellent side and pole crash protection
- Level 2 ADAS with lane keep assist and auto braking
The Harrier EV is a flagship SUV, offering the highest protection and advanced safety features.
Key Safety Features in These SUVs
All five top-rated SUVs are not just strong in crash tests but also in safety equipment:
- 6 to 7 airbags
- Strong high-tensile steel body
- ESC, ABS, and EBD
- 3-point seatbelts with reminders
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Level 2 ADAS in some trims
- Tyre pressure monitoring and attention assist in premium versions
These features help prevent accidents and keep passengers safe if a crash happens.
Tips to Choose a Safe SUV in India
- Check Bharat NCAP ratings for both AOP and COP
- Make sure airbags, ESC, and seatbelts are standard across all trims
- Look at body strength, child locks, and rear sensors
- Test drive to check visibility, blind spots, and braking performance
- For families, a safe 7 seater can offer both space and protection
Conclusion
The priority of the SUV purchasers in 2025 is safety. Tata Punch EV, Maruti Victoris, Mahindra BE 6, Mahindra XEV 9e, and Tata Harrier EV top the list of high safety rated SUVs. Having good crash ratings and good safety specification, these SUVs are the most preferred when leading to a safe and secure journey on Indian roads.
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Raja Yadav, the content writer at My Car Wisdom, brings a unique voice and style to our blog. With a knack for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Raja ensures that every piece of content is informative, engaging, and easy to understand. His focus is on delivering high-quality articles that cater to both novice car owners and seasoned automotive enthusiasts.
