In recent years, safety ratings have become a bit thing in the Indian car market. The trend was started by Tata Motors when it first tested the Nexon. The Nexon ended up becoming the first Indian car to score a full 5 stars on the crash test conducted by GNCAP. Today, many popular cars have been tested at the GNCAP facility and a good chunk of the results have been disappointing. Multiple cars have scored a rating of 3 stars or less, which has awakened many buyers. However, are car crash test ratings something you should consider before buying a car? Let’s discuss this today!
Also Read – How does GNCAP test cars?
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How are car crash test ratings determined?
The Global New Car Assessment Program (GNCAP) puts popular cars through several tests like front impact and side impact and then determines the ability of the car to withstand the crash. The test car contains human-like dummies, which are used to determine what parts of the human body would be injured in case of a crash. Depending on the severity and impact of injuries on these dummies, GNCAP releases a score for adult and child safety.
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How are the cars chosen?
A car can come to the GNCAP facility in 2 ways. First, GNCAP can randomly select a popular car, buy it through a dealer, and test out the base model at its facility. Second, the manufacturer can send over a car to the GNCAP facility and get it evaluated. For most Indian cars, the second option has hardly been used, except for Tata, Mahindra, and some VW group cars. 
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Are car crash test ratings reliable?
GNCAP puts these cars through various tests, and the process is fairly transparent. They even have a YouTube channel where they have shown how these cars are tested. So yes, the test scores are reliable. In fact, the GNCAP tests are so reliable that the upcoming Bharat NCAP tests are highly similar to what GNCAP does!
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Should car crash test ratings affect your car buying decisions?
Absolutely yes. This is something that should be the highest priority when buying a new car. No matter how safely you drive, accidents can happen and at that time, your car is the only shield around you. A 4-star safety rating is a minimum you should look for.
Do you consider car crash test ratings before buying a new car? Let us know in the comments below!
