MODEL
Audi A6 Safety
NHTSA safety across every Audi A6 model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Audi A6 we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2024 at 94 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 78. 36 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Audi A6 is a midsize luxury sedan that has competed at the heart of the premium executive segment since the 1990s. Aimed at professional buyers who want a polished daily driver with genuine prestige, the 2019 to 2025 generation blends a sophisticated cabin with a driver-focused character. It goes up against the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class in one of the most competitive corners of the American luxury market.
The 2019 to 2025 Audi A6 achieves its best NHTSA Safety Index score of 95 out of 100 for the 2025 model year, placing it in the Exceptional band. This strong overall performance, however, is not uniform across all categories or model years. Crash-test results show a 4 out of 5-star frontal rating, a solid outcome, but distinct from the 5 out of 5-star scores awarded for both side impact and rollover protection. Some model years registered an Average band Safety Index, not matching the stronger results seen elsewhere in the range. The recall record for this period merits attention. Thirty-four recalls across six model years is a considerable number for a single nameplate. Buyers of used examples should confirm all open recall work has been completed using NHTSA's VIN lookup tool. Owner complaints total 156 over this span. These include 2 reported crashes, 1 fire, and 2 injuries, all unverified allegations. While this complaint volume is not alarming for a six-year dataset, the fire allegation warrants awareness. On safety grounds, the A6 earns a cautious recommendation, with the newest model years demonstrating the strongest performance.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the A6 as one of the more refined and technically accomplished entries in the midsize luxury sedan segment, praising its interior quality, composed ride, and advanced driver assistance technology. Most critics consider it a strong all-around choice for buyers who prioritize a premium feel, though some note that rivals can feel more dynamically engaging behind the wheel.
- The 2025 A6 earns a 95 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index in the Exceptional band, but earlier model years in this generation have scored in the Average band, so check the specific model year you are considering rather than assuming all years perform equally.
- Frontal crash protection is rated 4 out of 5 stars at its best, which is good but falls one star short of the perfect scores the A6 achieves in side impact and rollover testing. Buyers who prioritize head-on collision protection should weigh this gap.
- Thirty-four recalls have been issued across the 2019 to 2025 model years. Anyone buying a used A6 should run the VIN through NHTSA's free lookup tool to confirm all recall repairs have been completed before purchase.
- Owner complaints include an unverified allegation of a fire incident. While this is a single unverified report within 156 total complaints, it is worth asking a selling dealer or independent inspector to check for any related technical service bulletins or open investigations.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Audi A6 with 11 recalls.