Safest Cars in the World 2023 - Top 10 with GNCAP Rating
by Maivizhi A | Updated Jun 07, 2023
Safest Cars in the World 2023
In an era where safety is a paramount concern for car buyers worldwide, the automotive industry has stepped up its game to provide vehicles that prioritise passenger protection. As we delve into 2023, a new generation of automobiles has emerged, equipped with groundbreaking safety features and technologies, setting new benchmarks for safety standards.
Here is the list of the safest cars in India, along with their GNCAP rating.
1
Volkswagen Virtus
5-star
5-star
2
Skoda Slavia
5-star
5-star
3
Volkswagen Taigun
5-star
5-star
4
Skoda Kushaq
5-star
5-star
5
Mahindra Scorpio N
5-star
3-star
6
Tata Punch
5-star
4-star
7
Mahindra XUV300
5-star
4-star
8
Tata Altroz
5-star
3-star
9
Tata Nexon
5-star
3-star
10
Mahindra XUV700
5-star
4-star
S.No
Car
Adult Safety Rating
(GNCAP)
Child Safety Rating
(GNCAP)
The year 2023 marks a significant milestone in automotive engineering, with several manufacturers going above and beyond to produce the safest cars ever created. These remarkable vehicles not only incorporate robust structural designs but also integrate innovative technologies that mitigate the risk of accidents and minimise the impact of collisions.
One of the standout features of the safest cars in the world for 2023 is the implementation of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). These systems employ a range of sensors, cameras, and radar technology to monitor the surroundings, detect potential hazards, and assist the driver in critical situations. From automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist to blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, these features work in tandem to enhance driver awareness and actively prevent accidents.
Manufacturers have made significant strides in enhancing passive safety features, such as reinforced body structures, crumple zones, and airbag systems. These advancements aim to provide optimal protection to occupants during a collision, effectively mitigating the risk of injury.
In this ever-evolving landscape of automotive safety, manufacturers are also focusing on implementing advanced connectivity and communication technologies. These innovations enable vehicles to communicate with each other, known as Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication, as well as with roadside infrastructure, known as Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) communication. These systems facilitate real-time information exchange, alerting drivers of potential hazards, road conditions, and traffic situations, further enhancing overall safety.
Top 10 Safest Cars in the World 2023
The safest cars in the world for 2023 epitomise the fusion of state-of-the-art safety technologies and cutting-edge design. From advanced driver assistance systems to improved passive safety features, these vehicles are engineered to prioritise passenger well-being and offer unparalleled protection on the road. As we venture into the future, the automotive industry continues to innovate, striving to create a world where accidents are minimised, and safety becomes an integral part of every journey.
1. Volkswagen Virtus (2017)
The Volkswagen Virtus, an exceptionally beautiful car, is not only aesthetically pleasing but also one of the safest vehicles available. It has achieved the top spot on the safest cars list, thanks to its remarkable safety features. The car has been awarded a 5-star rating for both adult and child safety by GNCAP (Global New Car Assessment Programme). Notably, it is the first midsize sedan to receive a 5-star rating under GNCAP's new testing protocols.
The German sedan comes equipped with a range of standard safety features, including dual airbags, ABS with EBD (anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution), multi-collision braking, electronic differential lock, a tyre pressure monitor, rear parking sensors, and rear defoggers. These features ensure the highest level of protection for the occupants. Additionally, higher variants of the Virtus offer the added safety of up to six airbags and hill start assist.
Moving on to its specifications and key features, the Volkswagen Virtus is available with two engine options: a 1-liter turbo petrol engine and a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine. The car offers multiple transmission choices, including a 6-speed manual gearbox, a 6-speed torque converter automatic, and a 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission) automatic. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Virtus provides a mileage of approximately 18.12-19.40 kmpl.
The car has a seating capacity of five individuals and falls under the category of a mid-size sedan. Noteworthy features include ventilated front seats, a digital instrument cluster, and a sunroof. These elements add to the overall comfort and convenience offered by the Volkswagen Virtus.
The Volkswagen Virtus stands out as a stunning car that prioritises safety. With its impressive safety ratings and an array of standard and optional safety features, it ensures the well-being of its occupants. Additionally, its powerful engines, various transmission options, and attractive features make it an appealing choice in the mid-size sedan segment.
2. Skoda Slavia (2022)
Skoda Slavia is a mid-size sedan that shares its platform and engineering with the Volkswagen Virtus. It has undergone testing by the Global New Car Assessment Program (GNCAP), similar to its sibling Virtus, and has achieved the same impressive safety ratings. The Skoda Slavia has been awarded a 5-star GNCAP rating for both adult and child occupancy, highlighting its robustness and providing assurance of a highly safe car for passengers.
One of the standout features of the Skoda Slavia is its comprehensive set of standard safety features. These include dual airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC) with traction control, multi-collision braking, rear parking sensors, and a tire pressure monitor. These safety measures contribute to the overall safety of the vehicle, ensuring the well-being of the occupants.
Additionally, the higher variants of the Skoda Slavia offer enhanced safety with the inclusion of up to six airbags, providing even more protection in case of a collision. Hill start assist is another feature available in these higher variants, further improving the driving experience in challenging terrains.
In terms of specifications, the Skoda Slavia is available with two engine options: a 1-liter turbocharged petrol engine and a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine. The transmission choices include a 6-speed manual gearbox, a 6-speed torque converter automatic, and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) automatic. This range of transmission options caters to different preferences and driving styles.
The fuel type supported by the Skoda Slavia is petrol, offering good fuel efficiency. The mileage provided by the car ranges from 18.07 to 19.47 kilometers per liter, making it a fuel-efficient option in its segment.
Inside the cabin, the Skoda Slavia can comfortably accommodate five passengers. The front seats are equipped with ventilation, enhancing comfort during long drives. The inclusion of cruise control allows for relaxed and convenient highway cruising. Another convenient feature is the wireless charger, which enables the wireless charging of compatible devices, reducing clutter and eliminating the need for cables.
The Skoda Slavia presents itself as a safe and feature-packed mid-size sedan with a range of engine and transmission options, ensuring a pleasant driving experience for its occupants.
3. Volkswagen Taigun (2021)
The Volkswagen Taigun sets new standards in safety with its robust bodyshell, earning it a coveted spot among the safest cars. This German mid-size SUV has achieved an impressive 5-star rating for both adult and child safety, making it a top choice for safety-conscious individuals and families. Notably, the Taigun is the first car to undergo Global NCAP's new testing protocols, which include rigorous side impact tests.
In addition to its stellar safety performance, the Volkswagen Taigun boasts an array of safety features that further enhance its protective capabilities. With up to six airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), traction control, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), and a rear camera, the Taigun prioritizes the well-being of its occupants. Furthermore, its 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine incorporates cylinder deactivation technology, reducing its carbon footprint and delivering improved fuel efficiency.
The Volkswagen Taigun offers two engine options: a 1.0-liter turbo petrol engine and a more powerful 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine. You have the choice of a 6-speed manual gearbox, a 6-speed torque converter automatic, or a 7-speed DCT automatic transmission. With a mileage range of 17-20 kmpl, the Taigun combines performance and efficiency seamlessly.
Inside the Taigun, you'll find a spacious cabin with seating for five occupants. The mid-size SUV features ventilated front seats for enhanced comfort, ensuring a pleasant driving experience even during long journeys. Additionally, a single-pane sunroof allows natural light to fill the cabin, creating an airy and inviting ambiance. The automatic climate control system keeps the interior at an optimal temperature, further enhancing passenger comfort.
With its impeccable safety ratings, advanced features, and impressive specifications, the Spinny Assured Volkswagen Taigun is a formidable choice for those seeking a reliable, stylish, and safe mid-size SUV.
4. Skoda Kushaq (2021)
The Skoda Kushaq is a midsize SUV that shares many similarities with the Taigun. It boasts a 5-star safety rating in both adult and child occupancy, ensuring the protection of its occupants. Built on the MQB A0-IN platform, the Kushaq features a more aggressive and masculine design compared to the Taigun. In addition to its structural strength, the Kushaq offers various safety features such as up to 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, multi-collision braking, and electronic differential lock.
Under the hood, the Skoda Kushaq is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine that incorporates cylinder deactivation technology. This not only reduces emissions but also enhances fuel efficiency, allowing for better mileage. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, or a 7-speed DCT automatic transmission, providing options for different driving preferences.
The Kushaq offers a mileage range of 17-19 kmpl, making it reasonably fuel-efficient for a midsize SUV. It has a seating capacity of 5 people and comes with standard 2 airbags, with higher variants offering up to 6 airbags for increased safety.
In terms of features, the Skoda Kushaq boasts ventilated front seats, which enhance comfort during hot weather. It also offers wireless phone charging, allowing for convenient charging without the need for cables. The automatic climate control system ensures a comfortable cabin temperature, making every journey enjoyable.
5. Mahindra Scorpio N (2022)
The Mahindra Scorpio N is a supremely successful car in India and has been recognized as one of the safest vehicles in the country. It has achieved a 5-star rating for adult occupant safety and a 3-star rating for child occupant safety, making it the third car in India to be tested under Global NCAP's new protocols.
In addition to its safety features, the Mahindra Scorpio N offers spaciousness comparable to the more expensive Toyota Fortuner. It boasts various safety features such as ABS with EBD, up to six airbags, hill-assist control, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and electronic stability control. Notably, the Mahindra Scorpio N is highly regarded for its off-road capabilities and is available with an optional four-wheel-drive drivetrain in higher variants.
The Mahindra Scorpio N comes with two engine options: a 2-liter turbo petrol and a 2.2-liter diesel engine. It offers a choice between a 6-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission (with optional all-wheel-drive). The car delivers a mileage of 15 kmpl for petrol and 16.5 kmpl for diesel.
It features two standard airbags (with the option for up to six in higher variants), supports both petrol and diesel fuel types, and has a seating capacity of 6 to 7 individuals. With its full-size SUV body type, the Mahindra Scorpio N also includes features like dual-zone climate control, a single-pane sunroof, and a 6-way powered driver seat.
6. Tata Punch (2021)
Tata Punch is a compact SUV that embodies qualities such as small size, nimbleness, agility, and safety. It is built on the same platform as the Tata Altroz and shares its muscular design language. The Punch prioritizes safety with features like ABS, EBD, and dual airbags. It also includes brake sway control and a unique safety feature called Traction Pro Mode, which assists in driving on challenging surfaces, particularly in the AMT variants.
Under the hood, the Tata Punch is equipped with a 1.2-liter petrol engine and offers a choice between a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 5-speed AMT. It delivers a mileage of 18.97 km/l and comes with dual front airbags as standard. The car runs on petrol fuel and can accommodate up to five occupants. With its compact SUV body type, the Tata Punch offers a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, connected car technology, and a semi-digital instrument cluster.
7. Mahindra XUV300 (2019)
The Mahindra XUV300, available at Spinny Assured, is a sleek and stylish compact SUV that exudes confidence on the road. Introduced in 2019, this vehicle is renowned for its exceptional safety features, holding a 5-star safety rating in India. Standard offerings include corner braking, a collapsible steering column, ABS, EBD, and an impressive package of up to 7 airbags.
The XUV300 also boasts ESP, which is incorporated from the W6 variant onwards. Under the hood, you have three engine options to choose from: a 1.2-liter turbo petrol, a 1.5-liter diesel, and a 1.2-liter TGDI turbo petrol engine. Gearbox options comprise a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed AMT. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the XUV300 delivers approximately 17 km/l for petrol and 20 km/l for diesel variants.
In terms of comfort and convenience, the car offers a seating capacity for five passengers, a compact SUV body type, a single-pane sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
8. Tata Altroz (2019)
The Tata Altroz is a car that combines smartness, style, and popularity, making it impossible to look away from. It stands out not only for its aesthetics but also for its exceptional safety features, earning it a 5-star safety rating. The standard features of the Altroz include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, corner stability control, and a chassis built on Tata's ALFA-ARC platform.
In terms of specifications, the Altroz offers a choice of engines: a 1.2-liter petrol engine, a 1.2-liter turbo petrol engine, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine. The transmission options include a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed DCT for the 1.2-liter petrol engine.
With a mileage of 18.5 km/l for petrol and 23 km/l for diesel, the Altroz is fuel-efficient. It can comfortably accommodate five passengers and is classified as a hatchback. Additional key features of the Altroz include a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control, and connected car technology.
9. Tata Nexon (2017)
The Tata Nexon is a compact SUV that made a significant impact by becoming the first car made in India to achieve a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP. Its muscular and robust design is visually appealing and sets it apart. The Nexon prioritizes safety with standard features such as dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, traction control, roll-over mitigation, and hydraulic brake assist. The Nexon offers various engine options: a 1.2-liter turbo petrol engine, a 1.5-liter turbo diesel engine, a 30.2 kWh battery, and a 40.5 kWh battery for the electric variant.
Transmission options include a 6-speed manual gearbox, a 6-speed AMT, and a single-speed automatic for the electric version. The Nexon achieves a mileage of 17.5 km/l for petrol, 21.1 km/l for diesel, 312 km for the 30.2 kWh battery, and 437 km for the 40.5 kWh battery. It can comfortably seat five passengers and is classified as a compact SUV. Notable features of the Nexon include a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated front seats, and an 8-speaker Harman Sound System.
10. Mahindra XUV 700 (2021)
The Mahindra XUV700 made a lasting impression with its launch, thanks to its luxurious appeal that rivals offerings from Korean and European car manufacturers. This SUV stands out not only for its spaciousness but also for its advanced features.
It holds the distinction of being the first SUV made in India to incorporate Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS), which uses a wide network of sensors and onboard computers to monitor the surroundings, ensuring control and preventing accidents.
The XUV700 also boasts safety features such as dual airbags, Anti-Lock Braking System with EBD, and Electronic Stability Program, contributing to its 5-star safety rating in the GNCAP. The XUV700 offers a 2-liter turbo petrol engine and a 2.2-liter diesel engine, with transmission options including a 6-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed torque converter automatic for the all-wheel-drive variant. It achieves a mileage of 13-14 kmpl for petrol and 13.5-14.8 km/l for diesel.
The seating capacity ranges from five to seven, depending on the variant, and it is categorized as a mid-size SUV. Noteworthy features of the XUV700 include a panoramic sunroof, a 12-speaker Sony sound system, and a 6-way powered driver seat.
Which is the Safest Car in the World?
The ex-showroom price of the Volkswagen Virtus ranges from Rs. 11.39 lakh to Rs. 18.60 lakh. This price range indicates the cost of purchasing the car from the showroom before taxes and additional charges are applied.
The Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia are sister models that share many components, although they differ in terms of their exterior design. Both cars belong to the popular premium mid-size segment and are direct competitors to other models such as the Honda City and Hyundai Verna.
In terms of safety, both the Virtus and Slavia underwent testing by the Global NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) to determine their safety ratings, and they performed admirably. They achieved a 5-star rating in the adult and child occupant categories. The Virtus scored an impressive 29.71 points, while the Slavia scored 42 points, making them the safest cars available in India.
The VW Virtus comes equipped with advanced safety features to ensure the protection of its occupants. These features include 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), park distance control, a rear-view camera, Hill Hold Assist, Multi-collision brakes, and more.
Similarly, the Skoda Slavia also boasts similar safety features as the Virtus, making it a reliable and secure choice for potential buyers.
Overall, both the Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia offer a high level of safety, appealing design, and competitive pricing in the premium mid-size segment, making them attractive options for customers in India.
What is GNCAP Rating?
GNCAP stands for Global New Car Assessment Programme. It is an independent organization that conducts safety assessments of new vehicles to provide consumers with information about their safety performance. GNCAP evaluates vehicles based on various crash tests and assigns them a rating to indicate their safety level.
The rating system used by GNCAP typically ranges from zero to five stars, with five stars being the highest rating. The assessment takes into account factors such as adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, pedestrian protection, and safety assist features. The higher the rating, the better the vehicle's safety performance.
GNCAP's ratings help consumers make informed decisions when purchasing vehicles, as they provide an objective measure of a vehicle's safety capabilities. The organization encourages automakers to improve the safety standards of their vehicles and promote the adoption of advanced safety technologies.
Which is the No.1 Safest car in the World?
The latest round of Latin NCAP safety tests has awarded the Volkswagen Virtus a 5-star rating. Although the tested car is sold in the Mexican market, it is actually manufactured in India. Interestingly, the India-made model sold in Latin America comes with more standard safety features compared to the Mexican version.
In the Latin NCAP test, the base variant of the Virtus was evaluated, marking the sedan's first safety assessment. It achieved an impressive 92 percent score in adult occupant protection, receiving 36.94 out of a total of 40 points. For child occupant protection, the Virtus obtained a 92 percent rating and scored 45 points out of 49.
However, the Virtus performed relatively poorly in the pedestrian and vulnerable road users tests, receiving a rating of 53 percent. In this category, it obtained 25.48 points out of a maximum of 48. On the other hand, the Virtus earned an 85 percent rating in the safety assist systems test, achieving a score of 36.54 out of 43.
While the base models of the India-spec Virtus come with only two airbags as standard, the Mexican model includes six airbags. Moreover, the Mexican variant offers Autonomous Emergency Braking as an optional feature, which is not available in the Indian version.
In terms of visual differences, the Virtus in Mexico sports distinct headlamps compared to the Indian model. Additionally, while the Virtus in India is equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, the Mexican-spec models are available with up to 17-inch wheels.
Considering the excellent safety performance of the India-made, Mexican-spec Virtus in the Latin NCAP tests, it is highly likely that the India-spec model will achieve similar scores in the Global NCAP safety tests. This expectation is further supported by the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq, which share the same MQB A0 IN platform as the Virtus and also received 5-star ratings in the GNCAP safety tests, which have implemented new protocols to evaluate cars.
Safest Cars in the World - FAQs
The Volkswagen Virtus has received a 5-star GNCAP rating for both adult and child safety.
The Volkswagen Virtus, a midsize sedan, has earned the top spot on the list of the safest cars in the world for 2023.
The Skoda Slavia comes equipped with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, rear parking sensors, and a tire pressure monitor as standard safety features.
Yes, the Volkswagen Taigun is a mid-size SUV that prioritizes safety. It has achieved a 5-star rating for both adult and child safety and offers spacious seating for five occupants.
The safest cars in 2023 incorporate advanced driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.