MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Audi Sq5 Sportback

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

0Recalls
11Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE AUDI SQ5 SPORTBACK

The Audi SQ5 Sportback is a performance-oriented compact luxury SUV with a sleek fastback roofline that sets it apart from the standard SQ5. Aimed at buyers who want the practicality of a raised crossover paired with sport-sedan aesthetics and a spirited driving character, it sits near the top of Audi's Q5 lineup and competes in a crowded but demanding segment of the premium market.

VERDICT

The 2021 Audi Sq5 Sportback earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 86 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. No vehicle recalls are on file for this model year.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the SQ5 Sportback as one of the more engaging and visually distinctive entries in the compact luxury SUV segment, praising its composed handling and premium interior. Most agree it prioritizes driving dynamics and style, and they tend to recommend it to buyers who value those qualities, though some note the fastback roofline slightly compromises rear-seat headroom and cargo versatility.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

OverallNot rated
FrontalNot rated
SideNot rated
Rollover
Rollover risk 16.3%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 16007

Index breakdown

Crash protection56/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record19.75/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

No vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Audi Sq5 Sportback at NHTSA as of 2026-07-02. Equipment recalls, if any, are excluded from the safety score.

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

11 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

0reported crash
0reported fire
1reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsElectrical System 4Power Train 3Engine 3Engine And Engine Cooling 1Unknown Or Other 1Back Over Prevention 1

Other Sq5 Sportback years

Rivals in SUV (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 16007), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Audi Sq5 Sportback 2021. Class rank 45 of 118 in SUV 2021. Methodology · Disclosure