NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback Safety Ratings
The 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback scores 92 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Exceptional), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 2 recalls, and 38 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback achieved a NHTSA Safety Index of 92/100, placing it in the Exceptional band. This high score is supported by strong NHTSA crash-test results and a comprehensive suite of standard crash-avoidance technology. Two active recall campaigns, however, merit resolution for prospective owners.
The 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback SUV AWD received a 5-out-of-5 overall NHTSA crash-test rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 92/100, sourced from federal NHTSA crash-test and recall data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 118 SUVs from 2021 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback ranks 14 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- families prioritizing rollover safety
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 92 / 100 (Exceptional) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 4 / 5 / 5 stars |
| Rollover risk | 9.2% |
| Recalls on file | 2 |
| Owner complaints | 38 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 14 of 118 SUVs tested for 2021 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback?
The 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback marks a two-point climb in the NHTSA Safety Index, rising from 90/100 in the 2020 model year to 92/100 here, both within the Exceptional band but the 2021 version representing a measurable step forward. The crash protection sub-score of 65 out of 70 is the primary driver, anchored by a 5-star overall NHTSA rating and perfect marks in side and rollover categories. The avoidance technology sub-score reaches the maximum 10 out of 10, reflecting forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control all arriving as standard equipment on this model year, not optional additions. The defect record sub-score of 17 out of 20 is where the picture requires nuance: two recall campaigns are on file, one tied to hydraulic brake pedal and linkage hardware and one to the backup camera sensing system. The 38 owner-reported complaints, led heavily by Electrical System allegations, do not factor directly into the Index but signal a component category that used-market shoppers should probe. Taken together, the 2021 model year represents the strongest safety profile this vehicle had produced through its first two years of availability.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback achieved an overall 5 out of 5 stars from NHTSA. Its side impact and rollover protection ratings each reached the maximum 5 stars, with a low 9 percent rollover risk and a No Tip dynamic test result. The frontal crash rating, at 4 out of 5 stars, is the sole area that did not achieve a perfect score.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15608
Index breakdown
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback have any recalls?
Two recall campaigns cover this model year. The first addresses service brakes, specifically hydraulic pedal and linkage components, spanning certain 2019-2023 E-Tron variants. The second targets the back-over prevention sensing camera system across a broad range of 2019-2026 Volkswagen Group vehicles. Neither campaign has been designated a do-not-drive order, but both warrant VIN verification before purchase.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES26V240000
Risk: Brake pedal detachment can cause a loss of brake function and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten the pushrod screw joint as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 28, 2026. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 46P7. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 24V621. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov
Reported 2026-04-15
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA25V900000
Risk: A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2026. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90TV. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on December 23, 2025.
Reported 2025-12-19
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback?
Owners have filed 38 unverified allegations with NHTSA. The Electrical System dominates with 26 reported incidents, followed by Unknown Or Other at 10 and Power Train at 9. One alleged fire has been reported. All figures represent unverified consumer allegations, not confirmed defects.
38 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback?
Two open recalls on the 2021 E-Tron Sportback necessitate a VIN-specific check with NHTSA before purchase. Both campaigns, addressing brake hardware and the rearview camera system, require documented remedy completion from the seller or dealership.
- The 2021 model year improved the NHTSA Safety Index by two points over the 2020 E-Tron Sportback, reaching 92/100 in the Exceptional band, driven by a 65/70 crash protection sub-score and a perfect 10/10 avoidance technology score.
- Two NHTSA recall campaigns are active for this specific model year: one covering hydraulic brake pedal and linkage components and one covering the backup camera sensing system, both requiring VIN-level confirmation of remedy completion.
- The frontal crash-test result of 4 out of 5 stars is the only rating below the maximum in an otherwise top-scoring NHTSA test performance that includes 5-star side, rollover, and overall results.
- Owner-reported complaints to NHTSA total 38 unverified allegations, with the Electrical System category accounting for 26 of them, making it the single most-reported component area for this model year.
RANKINGSWhere the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback places
The 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback safety questions
Was the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 92 out of 100, placing it in the Exceptional band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 4 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 5 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 9.2%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 2 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 38 owner complaints are on file for the 2021 Audi E-Tron Sportback. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a fire.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other E-Tron Sportback years
Rivals in SUV (2021)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Tesla Model X 5-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X 6-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X 7-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Nissan Murano | 96/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Mazda CX-3 | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 15608), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Audi E-Tron Sportback 2021.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 14 of 118 in the SUV class for 2021.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.