Despite a decline in demand for sedans in India, recent data from the Global New Car Assessment Program (Global NCAP) indicates that sedans are excelling in safety ratings compared to SUVs. While the sedan segment’s market share decreased from 11% in 2022 to 9.4% in 2023, sedans continue to boast some of the highest safety ratings in the market.
Sedans Leading the Safety Charge
Out of the eight cars in India that have achieved a coveted five-star safety rating in both adult occupant protection and child occupant protection categories, three are sedans: the Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia, and Hyundai Verna. This achievement places sedans ahead of SUVs in terms of safety standards.
Volkswagen Virtus: Setting the Benchmark
The Volkswagen Virtus secured an impressive five-star safety rating in both adult and child occupant protection categories, underscoring its commitment to passenger safety. Equipped with standard features like electronic stability control (ESC) and two airbags, the Virtus sets a new benchmark for safety in its segment. With a price range starting from Rs 11.56 lakh, the Virtus offers both safety and affordability to Indian consumers.
Skoda Slavia: Matching Excellence
Following closely behind, the Skoda Slavia mirrors the safety achievements of the Volkswagen Virtus, also clinching a five-star safety rating in both categories. Sharing the same platform as the Virtus, the Slavia reinforces Volkswagen Group’s dedication to safety across its lineup. Priced between Rs 11.53 lakh and Rs 19.13 lakh, the Slavia offers consumers a blend of style, performance, and safety.
Hyundai Verna: Upholding Standards
The Hyundai Verna maintains the sedan’s stellar safety reputation with its own five-star rating from Global NCAP. Boasting six airbags and ESC as standard features, the Verna prioritizes passenger safety without compromising on comfort and style. With prices ranging from Rs 11 lakh to Rs 17.42 lakh, the Verna caters to budget-conscious buyers seeking top-notch safety.
| Feature | Volkswagen Virtus | Skoda Slavia | Hyundai Verna |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (Ex-Showroom) | ₹ 11.56 Lakh | ₹ 11.53 Lakh | ₹ 11.00 Lakh |
| Variants Offered | Comfortline, Highline, GT | Active, Ambition, Style | EX, S, SX, SX(O) |
| Engine Options | 1.0L TSI Petrol | 1.0L TSI Petrol | 1.5L MPI Petrol, 1.4L Turbo GDI Petrol |
| Transmission Options | 6-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic | 6-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic | 6-Speed Manual, 7-Speed DCT |
| Mileage (claimed) | 20.8 kmpl (MT), 17.2 kmpl (AT) | 20.32 kmpl (MT), 17.71 kmpl (AT) | 18.6 kmpl (MT), 17.7 kmpl (AT), 20.1 kmpl (DCT) |
Comparison of Safety Ratings
A comparison of safety ratings reveals the consistency and excellence of these sedans in ensuring passenger protection. Both the Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia scored identical points in adult and child occupant protection categories, highlighting their unwavering commitment to safety. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Verna also secured top marks, reinforcing its position as a safe and reliable choice for consumers.
| Model | Adult Occupant Protection | Child Occupant Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Virtus | 5 stars / 29.71 points out of 34 | 5 stars / 42 points out of 49 |
| Skoda Slavia | 5 stars / 29.71 points out of 34 | 5 stars / 42 points out of 49 |
| Hyundai Verna | 5 stars / 28.18 points out of 34 | 5 stars / 42 points out of 49 |
Source: Global NCAP
In summary, the latest safety ratings from Global NCAP reaffirm the superior safety standards upheld by sedans such as the Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia, and Hyundai Verna. With robust features and impressive crash test performances, these sedans set a high bar for safety in the Indian automotive market.