Kia Seltos vs Tata Sierra: Bharat NCAP Crash Test Scores Compared

The 2026 Kia Seltos has received a five-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP, achieving the highest test scores for any internal combustion engine (ICE) car tested so far. The Tata Sierra, a key competitor, also secured a five-star rating. This comparison examines the crash test results of both compact SUVs.

Key Highlights

• Kia Seltos achieved highest Bharat NCAP test scores among ICE cars so far
• Both Kia Seltos and Tata Sierra received five-star safety ratings in crash tests
• Seltos scored perfect 12 out of 12 for child occupant protection
• Sierra scored 31.14 out of 32 for adult occupant protection
• Both SUVs offer advanced safety features including Level 2 ADAS

Crash Test Scores Overview

The Kia Seltos scored highly in Bharat NCAP assessments. In the frontal offset deformable barrier test at 64 kmph, the Seltos offered 'good' protection for the head, neck, chest, thighs, and pelvis of both driver and passenger. The co-driver's tibias were rated 'good,' while the driver's left tibia and both feet received 'adequate' protection. In the 50 kmph side impact and side pole tests, the Seltos provided 'good' protection to all body regions.

For child occupant protection, the Seltos achieved a perfect 12 out of 12 score for both 18-month-old and 3-year-old dummies. The younger child was secured in a rearward-facing child restraint system (CRS). The Bharat NCAP report did not provide detailed breakdowns for head, chest, and neck protection for children.

The Tata Sierra also performed strongly, scoring 31.14 out of 32 for adult occupant protection. It received 'good' to 'adequate' ratings for chest, tibias, and knees, and 'good' protection for the feet. The Sierra achieved 15.14 out of 16 in the frontal offset deformable test, a perfect 16 out of 16 in the side movable deformable barrier test, and passed the side pole impact test.

For child occupant protection, the Sierra earned a five-star rating, with 23.73 out of 24 in dynamic tests and a full 12 out of 12 for CRS installation. It scored 9 out of 13 in vehicle assessment, providing effective protection for both 18-month-old and 3-year-old child dummies.

Safety Features and Market Context

Both the Kia Seltos and Tata Sierra come equipped with six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), all-wheel disc brakes, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Both models also feature 360-degree cameras and Level 2 advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features.

In terms of safety, both SUVs are strong choices. The Seltos holds a slight advantage in test scores, while the Sierra benefits from Tata's established safety reputation. Other factors such as features, driving experience, comfort, and brand preference may influence buyer decisions more than crash test results alone.

Other compact SUV options in this segment include the Renault Duster, Hyundai Creta, Toyota Hyryder, Maruti Grand Vitara, Maruti Victoris, Tata Curvv, Citroen Basalt, Skoda Kushaq Facelift, MG Astor, Honda Elevate, and the upcoming Volkswagen Taigun Facelift.