The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Se stands out for its impressive safety features and crash test performance. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings, providing a clear picture of how well the Atlas SE protects occupants in various crash scenarios. We’ll cover everything from frontal and side impact tests to roof strength and headlight performance.
Action shot of a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE undergoing the IIHS driver-side small overlap frontal crash test.
Crashworthiness: A Deep Dive into the IIHS Ratings
The IIHS rigorously tests vehicles to assess their crashworthiness in a range of collisions, providing valuable insights for car buyers. The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE has earned top marks in many of these tests.
Small Overlap Front: Driver- and Passenger-Side
The Atlas SE aced both the driver-side and passenger-side small overlap front tests, earning a “Good” rating – the highest possible score. This test simulates a collision with a narrow object like a tree or utility pole, often resulting in severe damage to the vehicle’s front corner.
Post-crash image of the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE driver-side small overlap test, showing minimal intrusion into the occupant compartment.
The Atlas SE’s robust structure and safety cage maintained the driver’s survival space exceptionally well in these tests. Airbags deployed effectively, preventing head contact with hard interior surfaces or exterior objects. Measurements of intrusion into the occupant compartment were minimal, further demonstrating the effectiveness of the vehicle’s design in protecting occupants. Similar results were observed in the passenger-side test, indicating consistent protection for both front seat occupants.
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE undergoing the passenger-side small overlap frontal crash test.
Moderate Overlap Front and Side Impact Tests
The 2020 Atlas SE also achieved a “Good” rating in the moderate overlap front test, simulating a head-on collision with another vehicle. This test assesses the vehicle’s ability to protect occupants from head, chest, and leg injuries. The Atlas SE’s strong performance indicates excellent protection in this common type of crash.
In both the original and updated side impact tests, the Atlas SE consistently earned “Good” ratings for most criteria. While the driver pelvis protection received a “Marginal” rating in the updated test, the overall side impact protection remains commendable.
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE immediately following the updated side impact crash test.
Roof Strength and Head Restraints: Additional Safety Measures
Beyond crash tests, the IIHS evaluates roof strength and head restraints to assess protection in rollover crashes and rear-end collisions. The 2020 Atlas SE received a “Good” rating for roof strength, exceeding the required strength-to-weight ratio. The head restraints and seats also earned a “Good” rating, demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing the risk of neck injuries in rear-end crashes.
Headlights and Front Crash Prevention: Important Considerations
While the 2020 Atlas SE excels in crashworthiness, its headlight performance varies depending on the trim level. The SEL Premium trim received a “Marginal” rating for its headlights, while other trims received a “Poor” rating.
However, the Atlas SE boasts standard Front Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking. This system earned a “Superior” rating for its front crash prevention capabilities in vehicle-to-vehicle scenarios, demonstrating its potential to mitigate or prevent collisions.
Post-crash view of the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE in the updated side impact test, highlighting the damage and deployment of side airbags.
Child Seat Anchors: Ease of Use Matters
The 2020 Atlas SE received a “Marginal” rating for its child seat anchors (LATCH system). While the vehicle provides ample anchors, some were deemed too deep in the seat or required excessive force to attach, potentially making it difficult for parents to properly install child seats.
Conclusion: The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE Prioritizes Safety
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE boasts strong crash test performance, excelling in various impact scenarios. While some areas like headlights and child seat anchors could be improved, the vehicle’s overall safety record is impressive. Its robust structure, effective airbags, and advanced safety features like Front Assist contribute to its comprehensive safety package. This makes the Atlas SE a compelling choice for families and individuals prioritizing safety.
