MODEL
Audi Sq8
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 Audi SQ8 earns a Best NHTSA Safety Index of 84 out of 100 in its strongest year, 2023, landing it in the Strong band. That is a respectable result for a large luxury SUV, though shoppers should note the picture is incomplete. NHTSA has not issued starred ratings for frontal or side crash tests across the covered model years, meaning those critical scores are listed as NR. The rollover rating, where data does exist, comes in at 4 out of 5 stars, which is a solid result for a vehicle of this size and ride height. The more pressing concern for buyers is the recall count. Across the 2020 through 2025 model years, the SQ8 has accumulated 16 recalls, a notably high number for a six-year span and one that demands attention regardless of how well-funded a dealer network may be. On the complaints side, the picture is unusually quiet. Only 5 owner complaints are on file across all covered years, with zero reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths among them. Those are unverified allegations, but the low volume does suggest owners are not raising widespread safety alarms. In summary, the SQ8 shows strong index performance where tested, but the incomplete crash-test data and elevated recall count mean buyers should stay current on NHTSA recall notices and verify outstanding repairs before 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.