Bharat NCAP explained: what the star rating on your next car really means

Bharat NCAP scores every car on three axes: adult occupant protection out of 32 points, child occupant protection out of 49, and safety assist technology. A car can hold five stars for adults and still score poorly for children.

Six airbags are now standard across most mainstream models, but airbags only matter if the shell around them holds its shape. Look for the words 'stable' bodyshell in the test report — that is the single most useful line in the whole document.

Also check whether the tested variant matches the one you are buying. Manufacturers submit specific variants, and equipment such as ESC or ISOFIX may not carry down the range.

Our shortlist rule is simple: at least a 4-star adult rating, ESC on the variant you buy, and ISOFIX anchors if there is a child seat in your future.