Safety has quietly become one of the biggest deciding factors while buying a new car in India. Earlier, features like six airbags were limited to expensive variants or luxury cars. But things have changed fast. Today, several mainstream cars under ₹15 lakh come equipped with six airbags as standard, proving that safety is no longer a premium add-on.
With stricter safety norms, better crash awareness, and growing buyer expectations, carmakers are finally stepping up. If you’re planning to buy a safe, value-for-money car under ₹15 lakh, this list will make your decision much easier.
Here are the five best cars under ₹15 lakh in India that offer six airbags as standard, along with solid structural safety and modern electronic aids.
Why 6 Airbags Matter More Than Ever
Before jumping into the list, it’s important to understand why six airbags are such a big deal.
A six-airbag setup usually includes:
- Dual front airbags
- Side airbags
- Curtain airbags
Together, they protect passengers during:
- Front collisions
- Side impacts
- Rollover situations
When combined with systems like ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and ABS, six airbags significantly reduce injury risk. Simply put, they can be the difference between minor injuries and life-threatening ones.
1. Volkswagen Taigun – Built Like a Tank
Body type: Compact SUV
Price range: Under ₹15 lakh (select variants)
The Volkswagen Taigun is one of the safest compact SUVs you can buy today. It has earned a 5-star crash safety rating and now offers six airbags as standard across all variants, which is a massive plus at this price point.
Key safety highlights:
- 6 airbags (standard)
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill hold assist
- Traction control system
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Rear parking sensors and rear-view camera
The Taigun feels rock-solid on highways and inspires confidence at high speeds. While it doesn’t currently offer ADAS, the upcoming facelift is expected to introduce advanced driver assistance features in higher trims.
Who should buy it?
If highway safety and strong build quality are your top priorities, the Taigun is hard to beat.
2. Tata Sierra – The Iconic Name Returns With Modern Safety
Body type: Compact SUV
Expected price range: Starts under ₹15 lakh
The Tata Sierra makes a comeback with a modern design and a strong focus on safety. While official crash test results are awaited, Tata’s safety track record speaks for itself.
Key safety highlights:
- 6 airbags (standard)
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic stability systems
- 360-degree camera
- Seat belt reminders
- Level-2 ADAS with multiple safety features
Tata has clearly positioned the Sierra as a tech-loaded, safety-first SUV. Features like ADAS and a surround-view camera are rarely seen in this segment at this price.
Who should buy it?
Buyers looking for a future-ready SUV with modern safety tech and Tata’s trusted build quality.
3. Kia Seltos – Feature-Loaded and Safety-Focused
Body type: Mid-size SUV
Price range: Under ₹15 lakh (base and mid variants)
The new-generation Kia Seltos has significantly stepped up its safety game. Six airbags are now standard, making it a much stronger contender for safety-conscious buyers.
Key safety highlights:
- 6 airbags (standard)
- ABS with EBD
- Hill-start assist
- Electronic parking brake
- TPMS
- 360-degree camera
- Level-2 ADAS (select variants)
With features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and collision avoidance, the Seltos feels premium and reassuring on long drives.
Who should buy it?
Those who want a stylish SUV packed with features, tech, and modern safety systems.
4. Hyundai i20 – A Hatchback That Takes Safety Seriously
Body type: Premium hatchback
Price range: Under ₹15 lakh
The Hyundai i20 proves that you don’t need an SUV to get strong safety. Hyundai now offers six airbags as standard across all variants, making the i20 one of the safest hatchbacks in India.
Key safety highlights:
- 6 airbags (standard)
- ESC and Vehicle Stability Management
- Hill-start assist
- TPMS
- Rear camera with dynamic guidelines
- Speed-sensing door locks
- 3-point seatbelts for all passengers
Easy to drive, comfortable in the city, and stable on highways—the i20 balances everyday practicality with safety.
Who should buy it?
Urban buyers who want a safe, premium hatchback with modern features and smooth driving manners.
5. Tata Punch – Small Size, Big Safety
Body type: Micro SUV
Price range: Well under ₹15 lakh
Don’t let its compact size fool you. The Tata Punch is one of the safest cars in India and proudly carries a 5-star safety rating. Tata has now made six airbags standard, making it an excellent choice for budget-focused buyers.
Key safety highlights:
- 6 airbags (standard)
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- TPMS
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- 360-degree camera
- Rear HD camera
- Cruise control
- Blind spot monitoring
The Punch is especially popular among first-time buyers and small families who want peace of mind without stretching their budget.
Who should buy it?
Those looking for an affordable, safe, and practical car for daily use.
Quick Comparison Table (At a Glance)
| Car Model | Body Type | 6 Airbags | Safety Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Taigun | Compact SUV | Yes | 5-Star |
| Tata Sierra | Compact SUV | Yes | Awaited |
| Kia Seltos | Mid-size SUV | Yes | Improved Gen |
| Hyundai i20 | Hatchback | Yes | Strong Safety |
| Tata Punch | Micro SUV | Yes | 5-Star |
Final Thoughts
If you’re shopping for a car under ₹15 lakh in 2026, there’s no reason to compromise on safety anymore. From compact hatchbacks to feature-rich SUVs, manufacturers are finally offering six airbags as standard, making Indian roads safer for everyone.
Whether you prefer the solid feel of the Volkswagen Taigun, the tech-packed Kia Seltos, the practical Hyundai i20, or the rugged Tata Punch, there’s a safe option for every type of buyer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are six airbags mandatory in India?
Not yet mandatory for all cars, but many manufacturers now offer them as standard to meet safety expectations.
2. Do six airbags really make a difference?
Yes, especially in side impacts and rollovers where curtain airbags provide crucial protection.
3. Is Tata Punch really safe despite its size?
Absolutely. It has a 5-star safety rating and strong structural integrity.
4. Which is the safest SUV under ₹15 lakh?
The Volkswagen Taigun and Tata Punch are among the safest options currently available.
5. Does Hyundai i20 have six airbags in all variants?
Yes, Hyundai now offers six airbags as standard across the i20 lineup.
6. Is ADAS necessary for safety?
ADAS adds an extra layer of protection but is not a replacement for careful driving.
7. Which car on this list is best for highway driving?
Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Seltos are excellent for highway stability.
8. Are maintenance costs higher for cars with more airbags?
Not significantly. Airbags require minimal maintenance unless deployed.
9. Can six airbags reduce insurance costs?
In some cases, yes, as insurers consider safety features while calculating premiums.
10. Should safety be prioritised over features?
Ideally, yes. Safety should always come first, followed by comfort and features.
By BestGaddi
