NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2025 Volkswagen Atlas
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Volkswagen Atlas is a three-row midsize SUV aimed squarely at families who want European refinement without sacrificing real passenger and cargo space. Positioned against domestic and Japanese heavyweights in a competitive segment, the Atlas has been a cornerstone of VW's American lineup since its debut, offering seating for up to seven and a distinctly road-trip-ready character.
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 87 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the Atlas for its spacious, family-friendly interior and composed, easy driving manners that suit its target audience well. Most acknowledge it as a practical choice in the three-row segment, though professional testers have at times noted that its overall refinement and powertrain performance trail some rivals in the class.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 20368
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
SERVICE BRAKES25V434000
Risk: A loss of vehicle control increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 25, 2025. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42HX.
Reported 2025-06-30
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA25V334000
Risk: A distorted rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the camera control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 5, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91SB.
Reported 2025-05-21
ENGINE25V100000
Risk: A loose engine cover that contacts hot surfaces in the engine compartment can melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will remove the engine cover, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 7, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 10X5.
Reported 2025-02-17
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION25V081000
Risk: A sudden loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the transmission, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 12, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 38CX.
Reported 2025-02-12
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
35 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.