NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Volkswagen Passat
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Volkswagen Passat is a midsize family sedan that occupied the heart of VW's American lineup through its final generation, targeting buyers who wanted European driving character without the premium price tag. Positioned against stalwarts like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, the Passat leaned on a spacious cabin and composed road manners to make its case. MotorCaliber covers the 2019 through 2022 model years here.
The 2021 Volkswagen Passat earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 84 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 1 recall on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the Passat for its composed, refined driving character and genuinely roomy interior, particularly rear-seat space that punches above its class. Most acknowledge that it trails segment leaders in outright technology and driver-assist feature content, and some note that its powertrain options feel modest by competitive standards. Overall, professional opinion tends to view it as a sensible, understated choice rather than a segment leader.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 16090
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS21V812000
Risk: The bolts may loosen and cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the tightness of the wheel bearing bolts and replace the bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40R7.
Reported 2021-10-15
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
0 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.