MODEL
Audi SQ7 Safety
NHTSA safety across every Audi SQ7 model year we cover.
Across the 7 model years of the Audi SQ7 we cover (2020 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 85 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2022 at 80. 17 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Audi SQ7 is a performance-tuned, three-row luxury SUV competing at the top of a crowded segment. Built for families who want genuine driving engagement without sacrificing premium comfort, it pairs Audi's sport-oriented S-line DNA with the practicality of a full-size hauler. It targets affluent buyers who refuse to choose between speed and space, positioning itself against rivals like the BMW X7 M60i and Mercedes-AMG GLS 63.
The 2023 Audi SQ7 achieves a strong NHTSA Safety Index of 84 out of 100, the highest mark for this model between 2020 and 2025. This score is notable for a luxury performance SUV. However, NHTSA has not published full frontal or side crash-test star ratings for the SQ7 across any covered model year. The only confirmed star rating is 4 out of 5 for rollover risk. This rating is typical for a tall, heavy SUV and is a factor for drivers who engage the SQ7's performance capabilities. The SQ7's recall record presents the most significant concern. Sixteen recalls issued across six model years is a substantial figure, even for a complex luxury vehicle. Prospective owners should confirm that all applicable recalls have been addressed before acquiring an SQ7. Owner complaints are low, totaling 11, with one reported injury and no reported crashes or fires. NHTSA notes that these complaints are unverified allegations. The low complaint volume may reflect the SQ7's limited sales rather than an absence of issues. The SQ7 demonstrates a solid safety index, but its recall history requires careful attention.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the SQ7 as one of the most dynamically satisfying large luxury SUVs available, praising its composed handling, strong acceleration, and upscale interior execution. Most acknowledge that the premium pricing and complex technology can be polarizing, and some note that the driving experience edges ahead of pure practicality compared to more family-focused three-row alternatives.
- Sixteen recalls across the 2020 to 2025 model years is a high count for this segment. Before buying any SQ7, run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup tool and confirm every open recall has been completed by an authorized dealer.
- NHTSA has not assigned full frontal or side crash-test star ratings to the SQ7 in the covered years, so buyers cannot rely on a complete federal crash-test picture. The only confirmed star rating is a 4 out of 5 for rollover resistance.
- The 2023 model year achieved the strongest NHTSA Safety Index score of 84 out of 100 in the Strong band, making it the safest-rated year in the coverage window and a logical target if safety ranking is a priority for your purchase.
- Owner complaints are very low at 11 across six model years, with one reported injury and no crashes or fires among those unverified allegations. While encouraging, the SQ7's limited sales volume means the complaint pool is small, so this data point should be read cautiously rather than treated as a clean bill of health.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Audi SQ7 with 6 recalls.