MODEL
Audi SQ8 Safety
NHTSA safety across every Audi SQ8 model year we cover.
Across the 7 model years of the Audi SQ8 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 SQ8 is a high-performance luxury SUV that slots above the standard Q8 in Audi's lineup, targeting affluent buyers who want serious driving dynamics alongside genuine everyday practicality. Built on a large platform and offered in both combustion and e-tron electric variants, it competes in one of the most demanding segments in the market, where safety expectations run as high as performance ones.
The 2023 Audi SQ8 achieved a Best NHTSA Safety Index of 84 out of 100, placing it in the Strong safety band. This is a respectable performance for a large luxury SUV, yet the safety picture remains incomplete. NHTSA has not published star ratings for frontal or side crash tests for this model year, leaving these critical categories marked as Not Rated. Where data is available, the SQ8 earned 4 out of 5 stars for rollover resistance, a solid outcome given its size and ride height. A more significant concern for prospective owners is the vehicle's recall history. Across the 2020 through 2025 model years, the SQ8 has accumulated 16 recalls. This elevated number for a six-year production span indicates a persistent pattern of safety-related issues. Conversely, owner complaints are minimal, with only 5 on file across all covered years. None of these complaints report crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths, suggesting that widespread safety alarms from owners have not materialized. In summary, while the SQ8 demonstrates strong index performance in evaluated areas, the absence of complete crash-test data and the high recall count necessitate that buyers remain diligent in checking NHTSA recall notices and confirming all outstanding repairs are addressed prior to purchase.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the SQ8 as one of the more compelling entries in the performance luxury SUV class, praising its blend of refined interior quality and engaging driving character. Most acknowledge the premium pricing and technology complexity as tradeoffs, and professional assessments tend to highlight the breadth of capability rather than any single standout attribute.
- The SQ8 carries 16 recalls across the 2020 to 2025 model years, which is a high recall volume for this segment. Any shopper should run the VIN through NHTSA's recall database and confirm all outstanding repairs have been completed before finalizing a purchase.
- NHTSA frontal and side crash-test star ratings are listed as NR (not rated) for the covered model years, meaning two of the most important crash-test data points are simply unavailable. Buyers cannot rely on starred scores in those categories to compare the SQ8 against rivals.
- The 2023 model year achieved the best NHTSA Safety Index score of 84 out of 100, placing it in the Strong band. If safety index performance is a priority, the 2023 model year is the strongest documented option within this coverage window.
- Owner complaint volume is exceptionally low at just 5 total reports across six model years, with zero recorded crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths among them. While these are unverified allegations, the low count suggests owners have not flagged widespread in-service safety issues with federal authorities.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Audi SQ8 with 6 recalls.