NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Audi Sq8
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
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 2021 Audi Sq8 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 80 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 6 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
Reviewers 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.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15618
Index breakdown
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA25V900000
Risk: A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2026. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90TV. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on December 23, 2025.
Reported 2025-12-19
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL25V201000
Risk: An instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument panel module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 24, 2025. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90VC.
Reported 2025-03-31
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION22V742000
Risk: A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DZ.
Reported 2022-10-05
TIRES22V034000
Risk: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.
Reported 2022-01-26
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR21V606000
Risk: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect, and replace as necessary, the middle-rear seat belt assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 27, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 69CR (VW) and 69CS (Audi).
Reported 2021-08-05
ENGINE21V339000
Risk: Cracks may cause engine damage and a stall or an oil leak, increasing the risk of a crash or fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the engine, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 9, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 10G9.
Reported 2021-05-12
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
3 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.