MODEL
Audi S5 Safety
NHTSA safety across every Audi S5 model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Audi S5 we cover (2019 to 2026), no year has an NHTSA crash-test score on record. 18 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Audi S5 is a performance-oriented luxury coupe and sportback that slots above the A5 in Audi's lineup, targeting buyers who want a blend of everyday refinement and spirited driving in a premium German package. It competes in the upper tier of the sport luxury segment, appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize driving dynamics and interior quality alongside practicality.
A significant gap exists in the safety profile of the Audi S5: NHTSA has not crash-tested this vehicle for any model year from 2019 through 2025. This omission means federal star ratings for occupant protection are unavailable, limiting direct comparison with vehicles that do carry full NHTSA scores. Across the 2019-2025 model years, the S5 accumulated 18 recalls. For a low-volume luxury performance vehicle over a six-year period, this recall count indicates an active process of identifying and addressing issues. Owners should prioritize checking recall completion status via NHTSA.gov using their VIN. NHTSA recorded 46 owner complaints for the S5 across the same period. Among these unverified allegations, there was 1 reported crash and 5 reported injuries. These figures are part of the public record and warrant consideration. The absence of crash-test data for the S5 creates a blind spot in its safety assessment, particularly concerning structural protection. Prospective buyers should account for this lack of federal evaluation and remain diligent regarding recall management.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Audi S5 for its polished, refined driving character, upscale interior materials, and the way it balances performance with daily usability. Most consider it a strong choice for buyers who want a premium sport vehicle that does not feel harsh or compromised. Handling and build quality tend to draw consistent positive remarks across professional assessments.
- NHTSA has not crash-tested the S5 in any model year from 2019 to 2025, so there are no federal star ratings available to judge occupant protection - a significant gap compared to many competitors.
- The S5 carries 18 recalls across the 2019 to 2025 model years. Prospective buyers should run a VIN check at NHTSA.gov before purchase to confirm all open recalls have been completed by a dealership.
- Owner complaints on file with NHTSA total 46 across the covered years, with 1 reported crash and 5 reported injuries noted in those submissions. These are unverified allegations but represent real consumer concerns submitted to the federal government.
- Because crash-test data is absent, safety-conscious shoppers may want to cross-reference the S5 against IIHS ratings if available for their target model year, as that organization tests independently of NHTSA and may provide additional structural protection insight.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Audi S5 with 5 recalls.