Crash test ratings - Volkswagen Passat

Volkswagen Passat
Overall 5/5 stars
Front impact 88%
Side impact 100%
Child protection 78% 4/5 stars
Pedestrian test 47% 2/4 stars


VW’ latest Passat achieved a five-star rating after it was allowed a test re-run.

Changes to the car’ curtain airbag and roof lining allowed it to get full marks for adult occupant protection and four stars for child protection.

The body of the car proved extremely strong, with little in the way of deformation, which protected its occupants well. The level of protection offered to pedestrians and other road users was classed as reasonable.

The body provided a stable structure and, with dual stage frontal airbags, belt pre-tensioners and load limiters, helped control and limit the forward movement of adult occupants. However, the driver risked leg injuries from contact with the steering column.

The footwell suffered little deformation or intrusion and control of the foot pedals was good.

An impressive side-impact protection system included seat-mounted thorax airbags and a head curtain airbag, which also protects those seated in the rear. The Passat gained a maximum score.

Children were reasonably well protected, although in the frontal impact the chest load on the older child and the neck load on the younger child were a little high. The younger child was protected well throughout.

Pedestrian protection was reasonable. The bumper met test requirements and the bonnet top cushioned where a child’ head might strike it. It also protected adults’ heads, although not so well. However, the bonnet’s front edge gave no measurable protection.