NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2019 Audi Q8
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Audi Q8 is a flagship luxury SUV that slots above the Q7 in Audi's lineup, targeting buyers who want a sportier, coupe-influenced silhouette without sacrificing rear-seat space or premium refinement. Competing against the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, the Q8 has been offered from the 2019 model year onward and appeals to drivers who prioritize bold styling and a high-end driving experience in a large, road-presence package.
The 2019 Audi Q8 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 82 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 5 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the Q8 for its distinctive styling, upscale interior quality, and composed, confidence-inspiring driving dynamics. Most find it a compelling alternative to more conventional large luxury SUVs, though reviewers tend to note that the sloping roofline can compromise rear headroom and cargo practicality compared to boxier segment rivals.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 13716
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
LANE DEPARTURE:SOFTWARE26V125000
Risk: The driver may be unaware that the lane departure warning system is deactivated and rely on a system that is not functional, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 13, 2026. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90TW. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 6, 2026.
Reported 2026-03-04
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
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP22V516000
Risk: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 22, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 20DR.
Reported 2022-07-20
STEERING20V149000
Risk: A sudden loss of loss of steering control may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and Audi dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the steering shaft bolt, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2020. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 36A1.
Reported 2020-03-16
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SHOCK ABSORBER19V114000
Risk: Loose shock absorbers may impair vehicle steering, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy: Audi has notified owners, and dealers will replace the shock absorber forks, free of charge. The recall began March 18, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 40O4.
Reported 2019-02-20
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
107 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.