Consumer Reports Names Volkswagen Atlas, Tiguan as Recommended Models

Two of the most relevant and popular vehicle categories for American households are compact crossovers and larger three-row midsize crossovers. Individual situations vary greatly, but in general, compact crossovers are seen as ideal for young married couples and those just starting a family, while three-row midsize crossovers are for families, possibly with teenagers, who need a vehicle to transport not just their kids but their friends and/or visiting relatives.  Thus, Bud Brown Volkswagen is proud to announce that its compact and three-row midsize crossovers, the Tiguan and Atlas have both been named CR recommended vehicles by Consumer Reports.  Additionally, Consumer Reports, together with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), have highlighted both vehicles on a list of vehicles recommended for teens.  

You need more than a good road test to be recommended by Consumer Reports.  Vehicles must also offer better-than-average predicted reliability and high owner satisfaction results from their annual auto surveys of subscribers.  CR editors also look at crash and other safety data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) before making their selection. 

“We are thrilled to have the 2026 Atlas and Tiguan recommended by Consumer Reports,” said Petar Danilovic, SVP, Product Marketing and Strategy, Volkswagen of America. “Among the accolades we’ve received this year, recognition from Consumer Reports is especially meaningful because it reflects real-world performance and owner experience.” 

As for the vehicles for teens recommendation, IIHS and Consumer Reports have collaborated on an annual “New and Used Vehicles For Teens” list since 2020. In general, IIHS contributes safety information, including results from its own crash tests, while Consumer Reports looks at everything else.  

Both the 2026 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are named as top New Vehicles for teens, while the 2022–2024 Volkswagen Tiguan is recognized as a Best Choice among used vehicles for teens. 

All vehicles included in the list must possess average or higher ratings from CR for braking performance, as well as for emergency and routine handling. Additionally, they are required to have usability scores of at least 2 out of 5 for controls and displays, and excludes models with confusing and distracting driver interfaces. 

Vehicles listed also offer substantial protection in the event of a collision, as evidenced by IIHS testing. This indicates a favorable rating in the driver-side small-overlap front test, introduced in 2012. Models classified within the highest tier of used vehicles, designated as Best Choices, feature headlights that have received a good or acceptable rating from IIHS across all trim levels. Additionally, they are equipped with standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, which demonstrates excellent performance in daytime IIHS track assessments.  

“We’re proud to see Volkswagen vehicles recognized by IIHS and Consumer Reports for delivering the advanced safety features and crash protection families expect,” said Thomas Zorn, Vice President, Vehicle Safety.  “As teens begin their driving journeys, having access to vehicles engineered with proven safety technologies can offer confidence and peace of mind for both young drivers and their parents.” 

The experts have spoken, and it’s clear: if you’re looking for a compact or three-row midsize crossover, the Tiguan and Atlas models simply must be on your shopping list. If you are in the Olathe, Kansas, area, the best place to do your shopping is Bud Brown Volkswagen, with a good selection, good service, and the Bud Brown Advantage Lifetime Limited Warranty.