When buying a car in India today, safety has become just as important as design, mileage, or features. Thanks to Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP crash tests, buyers now have access to reliable safety ratings. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a 5-star safety-rated car under ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom).
Here’s a list of the top 5 safest cars in India under ₹10 lakh that combine affordability with maximum protection for you and your family.
1. Tata Punch—The Micro-SUV That Packs a Punch
- Safety Rating: Global NCAP: 5-Star for Adults, 4-Star for Children
- Price Range: ₹6 – ₹9.60 lakh (ex-showroom, approx.)
Why Buy?
The Tata Punch is one of the most loved micro-SUVs in India, thanks to its SUV-like stance and rock-solid safety rating.
- Dual airbags
- ABS with EBD
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Rugged build quality
If you want a stylish, city-friendly SUV with proven safety credentials, the Punch is a top choice.
2. Tata Nexon—India’s 5-Star Benchmark SUV
- Safety Rating: 5-Star (Adult & Child) – Global NCAP & Bharat NCAP
- Price Range: ₹8 – ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom, select variants under ₹10 lakh)
Why Buy?
The Tata Nexon made history as the first Indian car to get a 5-star rating, and the new-gen model continues that legacy.
- Strong body shell
- Six airbags (in newer trims)
- ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
- Hill Hold Assist
For those who want a compact SUV that balances looks, features, and top-tier safety, the Nexon is unbeatable.
3. Mahindra XUV 3XO – Using Modern Technology for Safety
- Safety Rating: 5-Star (Adult & Child) – Bharat NCAP
- Price Range: ₹7.50 – ₹9.90 lakh (ex-showroom, base to mid variants)
Why Buy?
As the XUV300’s successor, the Mahindra XUV 3XO raises the standard for features and safety.
- Six airbags
- 360-degree camera
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (Level 2 ADAS in higher trims)
- Rigid build quality
If safety tech matters to you, this SUV offers premium features within budget.
4. Maruti Suzuki Dzire (New Gen)—Safe Sedan Choice
- Safety Rating: 5-Star for adults and 4-Star for children according to Global NCAP
- Price Range: ₹6.80 – ₹9.60 lakh (ex-showroom, approx.)
Why Buy?
The Dzire is proof that sedans can be just as safe as SUVs. The latest generation has scored impressively well in crash tests.
- Six airbags (standard in newer models)
- ESC & Hill Hold Assist
- ABS with EBD
For those who prefer a fuel-efficient and family-friendly sedan, the Dzire is a trusted pick.
5. Tata Altroz – Safest Hatchback in India
- Safety Rating: 5-Star (Adult), 3-Star (Child) – Global NCAP
- Price Range: ₹6.50 – ₹9.80 lakh (ex-showroom)
Why Buy?
The first high-end hatchback in India to receive a 5-star rating was the Tata Altroz. Its robust construction and fashionable design make it ideal for daily city driving.
- Dual airbags
- ISOFIX mounts
- Solid body integrity
If you need a hatchback that doesn’t compromise on safety, the Altroz is the go-to option.
Quick Comparison Table
| Car Model | Safety Rating (Adult/Child) | Price Range (₹ lakh, ex-showroom) | Body Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Punch | 5★ / 4★ | 6 – 9.60 | Micro SUV | Dual airbags, ABS, ISOFIX |
| Tata Nexon | 5★ / 5★ | 8 – 9.99 | Compact SUV | 6 airbags, ESP, Hill Hold |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO | 5★ / 5★ | 7.50 – 9.90 | Compact SUV | 6 airbags, ADAS, 360 cam |
| Maruti Dzire | 5★ / 4★ | 6.80 – 9.60 | Sedan | 6 airbags, ESC, ABS-EBD |
| Tata Altroz | 5★ / 3★ | 6.50 – 9.80 | Hatchback | Dual airbags, ISOFIX |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which is the safest cars under ₹10 lakh in India (2025)?
The Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV 3XO stand out as the safest cars under ₹10 lakh, with 5-star ratings for both adult and child safety.
Q2. Are all Tata cars 5-star rated?
Not all, but Tata Punch, Nexon, and Altroz have achieved Global NCAP 5-star safety ratings.
Q3. Is the Maruti Dzire really safe now?
Indeed, the new Dzire is among the safest sedans in India, having received a 5-star adult safety rating.
Q4. What’s better for families: a sedan or an SUV under ₹10 lakh?
If you want more space and ruggedness, go for an SUV like the Tata Punch/Nexon. A sedan like the Dzire is an excellent option for comfort and mileage.
Q5. Which is the cheapest 5-star-rated car in India?
The Tata Punch is currently the most affordable 5-star-rated car in India, starting around ₹6 lakh (ex-showroom).
Final Word:
Safety should never be compromised, and thankfully, Indian buyers now have several budget-friendly 5-star-rated cars to choose from. Whether you prefer a hatchback, sedan, or SUV, these models ensure peace of mind without stretching your budget.