MODEL
Audi E-Tron Sportback Safety
NHTSA safety across every Audi E-Tron Sportback model year we cover.
Across the 4 model years of the Audi E-Tron Sportback we cover (2020 to 2023), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2023 at 93 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2022 at 90. 8 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Audi E-Tron Sportback is a battery-electric luxury SUV with a sleek, fastback roofline that sets it apart from its boxier E-Tron sibling. Aimed squarely at premium buyers who want zero-emission driving without sacrificing refinement or road presence, it competes in one of the most demanding segments in the market, where safety expectations are as high as the price tags.
The 2023 Audi E-Tron Sportback achieves an Exceptional 93 out of 100 on the MotorCaliber NHTSA Safety Index. This strong overall score is underpinned by perfect star ratings in both side impact and rollover protection from federal crash tests. The frontal crash test, however, received a lower rating, preventing a clean sweep of the highest possible results. Across the 2020 to 2023 model years, the E-Tron Sportback has been subject to eight recalls. This is a moderate number for an electric vehicle in its initial production phase; owners should confirm all recall work has been completed on any used model. Owner complaints total 42 over the same period, a contained figure relative to sales volume. One fire allegation is recorded among these complaints. While unverified, a fire report in an electric vehicle warrants attention. No crashes, injuries, or deaths are reported within the complaint data. The E-Tron Sportback's strong safety rating is evident, but the frontal crash-test result and recall history indicate the need for thorough buyer diligence.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the E-Tron Sportback for its polished, composed driving character and upscale cabin execution, calling it one of the more mature and livable luxury electric SUVs available. Most acknowledge that its technology and range figures trail some rivals, but they tend to view the overall package as a refined, confidence-inspiring choice for buyers prioritizing comfort and build quality.
- The 2023 model year earns a 93 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index in the Exceptional band, the strongest result across the covered model years, making it the safest pick in this range if crash-test performance is your priority.
- Frontal crash protection scores four out of five stars rather than a perfect five, a meaningful gap in a segment where several competitors achieve full marks, and worth factoring into your comparison shopping.
- Eight recalls are on record across the 2020 to 2023 model years. Anyone considering a used example should run the VIN through NHTSA's free lookup tool to confirm all recall repairs have been performed before purchase.
- One fire allegation appears in the 42 owner complaints logged across these model years. These are unverified allegations, but prospective buyers of any used EV should inspect battery and charging system service history and ask the seller directly about any fire or thermal events.
Most-recalled year on record: 2023 Audi E-Tron Sportback with 2 recalls.